Executive Chef - High-Volume European Bistro

Executive Chef | Valentina Location: Encinitas, CA Compensation: $80,000 – $120,000 The Concept Valentina is a premier European-style bistro on Highway 101. We pair Spanish-influenced taberna-focusing on highly executed neighborhood classics, tapas, and approachable bistro fare-with an extensive and highly curated global wine program. The Role We are seeking a hardworking, hands-on Executive Chef who leads from the front. This is a working chef position; you will spend the majority of your time on the line, driving service and setting the pace for the BOH. This is not an administrative or clipboard role. It requires a seasoned professional who thrives in the trenches, physically cooking and commanding the pass, while simultaneously maintaining strict operational and financial discipline. Core Directives Line Execution: Command the line during high-volume services. Work shoulder-to-shoulder with the brigade to ensure speed, consistency, and uncompromising quality on every plate that leaves the kitchen. Financial Command: Manage BOH financials efficiently around service hours. Meet target COGS, optimize labor schedules, and maintain tight inventory and yield controls. Menu Management: Execute high-margin, streamlined bistro menus that complement our wine offerings, ensuring prep is highly organized for a demanding, fast-paced line. Leadership & Culture: Lead by example. Train, mentor, and retain a high-performing team by building a culture grounded in grit, accountability, urgency, and rigorous sanitation. The Requirements 3+ years as an Executive Chef or Chef de Cuisine in a high-volume, upscale-casual environment. Proven ability to physically drive a busy line day in and day out while successfully managing BOH business operations. Strong familiarity with European bistro fare, high-volume consistency, and food-and-wine pairing dynamics. Fluency in foundational kitchen administration (labor budgeting, food cost analysis, ordering) without allowing it to pull you away from service.