Job Description

Head Chef

Modern Mexican Cocktail Bar & Tapas | Midtown Manhattan, NYC

The Concept

A modern, hip Mexican cocktail bar and tapas concept in the heart of Midtown NYC is seeking an inspiring Head Chef to lead the culinary program of a high-energy, design-forward venue where food, cocktails, and atmosphere intersect .

This is an exciting opportunity for a chef who understands how bold, craveable food complements a world-class bar program — someone who thrives in late-night energy, understands volume without compromising quality, and brings structure, creativity, and leadership to the kitchen.

The Role

As Head Chef, you will own the culinary vision and day-to-day BOH operations, ensuring consistency, efficiency, and excellence across every service. You will work closely with ownership and the bar leadership team to create a cohesive guest experience where food and cocktails are equally compelling.

This role is ideal for a chef who loves modern Mexican flavors , small plates, shareable dishes, and elevated bar food — and who is equally passionate about systems, people, and execution .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all BOH operations with clarity, organization, and consistency

• Execute and evolve a menu focused on modern Mexican tapas and bar-driven cuisine

• Ensure food complements and elevates the cocktail program

• Maintain consistency in flavor, plating, and timing during high-volume service

• Train, mentor, and lead a tight, efficient kitchen team

• Build strong BOH systems for prep, service flow, and execution

• Oversee ordering, inventory, food cost, waste, and labor control

• Maintain full compliance with NYC DOH regulations and food safety standards

• Collaborate closely with FOH and bar leadership to align service and culture

• Lead calm, confident service during peak late-night hours

Culinary Style & Focus

• Modern Mexican cuisine with bold flavors and clean execution

• Small plates, tapas-style dishes, and shareable formats

• Strong understanding of chiles, salsas, masa-based preparations, and regional influences

• Food designed to pair with tequila, mezcal, agave spirits, and craft cocktails

• Creative yet operationally disciplined approach

The Ideal Candidate

You are a chef who brings both energy and structure .

You are:

• Passionate about Mexican cuisine and agave-driven culture

• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and operationally strong

• Calm and confident in fast-paced, high-volume environments

• A natural leader who builds trust and accountability in the kitchen

• Collaborative and aligned with FOH and bar leadership

You bring:

• 4–7+ years of experience as a Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, or Senior Sous Chef ready to step up

• Experience in cocktail bars, tapas concepts, or bar-forward restaurants

• Strong cost control, inventory management, and scheduling skills

• A love for late-night hospitality and high-energy service

Culture & Work Environment

• Creative, energetic, and guest-focused

• Design-forward space with a strong brand identity

• Supportive ownership and collaborative leadership

• Emphasis on professionalism, respect, and sustainability

Compensation & Growth

• $100/120k + Bonus

• Health benefits and PTO

• Opportunity to grow with an expanding hospitality group

• A platform to build a recognizable, exciting culinary identity

Why This Role?

This is a rare opportunity to lead the kitchen of a buzz-worthy Midtown concept where food plays a central role in an already dynamic cocktail-driven experience.

If you’re a chef who loves bold flavors, thrives on energy, and knows how to balance creativity with execution — this role was built for you.

Job Tags

Similar Jobs