About Company
Urban Kitchen Group is a leading culinary force in San Diego, renowned for creating distinctive dining experiences rooted in passion, quality, and community. Since our inception, we’ve cultivated a portfolio of beloved restaurants, including CUCINA urbana, CUCINA enoteca, and Goldfinch, each celebrated for its unique ambiance, exceptional service, and innovative, seasonal menus. Our culinary philosophy centers on elevated Italian-inspired cuisine with a strong emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, handcrafted elements, and a vibrant, approachable style. We believe in fostering a dynamic and supportive work environment where culinary professionals can thrive, learn, and contribute to an award-winning team. Joining Urban Kitchen Group means becoming part of a family dedicated to culinary excellence and crafting memorable moments for our guests.
Job Description
Urban Kitchen Group is seeking an exceptional and highly motivated Chef to join our esteemed culinary team in San Diego, California. This is a unique and compelling opportunity for a talented culinary professional who not only excels in the kitchen but also harbors an ambition for international exposure and professional growth. While your primary role will be to lead and inspire within one of our dynamic San Diego kitchens, we are specifically looking for a candidate who is eager to explore an extraordinary career pathway: a potential UK Sponsorship Opportunity.
As a Chef with Urban Kitchen Group, you will be instrumental in maintaining and elevating our acclaimed culinary standards. You will oversee daily kitchen operations, develop innovative dishes that reflect our commitment to seasonal ingredients and Italian-inspired cuisine, manage kitchen staff, ensure impeccable food quality and presentation, and uphold the highest standards of hygiene and safety. We are looking for a leader who can mentor junior staff, foster a positive and collaborative working environment, and contribute creatively to our evolving menus.
The ‘UK Sponsorship Opportunity’ signifies Urban Kitchen Group’s commitment to investing in our top talent’s long-term development. For the right candidate, demonstrating exceptional performance, leadership, and a commitment to our culinary ethos, we offer a sponsored pathway to gain invaluable international experience within our network or with carefully selected partners in the United Kingdom. This includes assistance with visa sponsorship and relocation support, providing a unique chance to broaden your culinary horizons, immerse yourself in a new food culture, and advance your career on a global stage. This is a rare chance to combine a rewarding role in sunny San Diego with the exciting prospect of an international culinary adventure.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage all aspects of kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and plating.
- Develop and implement innovative, seasonal menus that align with Urban Kitchen Group's culinary philosophy.
- Ensure the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and consistency.
- Oversee inventory management, ordering, and cost control to maintain profitability.
- Train, mentor, and supervise kitchen staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
- Maintain strict adherence to health, safety, and sanitation standards.
- Collaborate with the management team on operational improvements and strategic planning.
- Actively participate in achieving guest satisfaction through exceptional culinary experiences.
- Demonstrate a proactive interest and readiness for potential international assignments in the UK, as part of a sponsored professional development program.
Required Skills
- Minimum of 4 years of progressive experience in a high-volume, quality restaurant or hospitality setting.
- Proven leadership and team management abilities.
- Extensive knowledge of Italian and/or Mediterranean cuisine.
- Strong understanding of culinary techniques, knife skills, and kitchen equipment.
- Ability to manage food costs, inventory, and labor effectively.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.
- Current Food Handler's Card.
Preferred Qualifications
- Culinary degree or equivalent professional certification.
- Experience in fine dining or Michelin-starred environments.
- Proficiency in diverse cooking styles and global culinary trends.
- Experience with menu development and recipe costing software.
- A genuine passion for international cuisine and cultural exchange.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Paid Time Off (PTO) and holidays.
- Employee dining discounts across Urban Kitchen Group restaurants.
- Opportunities for continuous professional development and training.
- A supportive and creative work environment.
- Unique international career pathway with UK sponsorship opportunity for qualifying candidates.
- Relocation assistance for the UK opportunity (if applicable).
How to Apply
If you are a talented Chef ready for an exciting role in San Diego with the potential for a global culinary adventure, we invite you to apply. Please click the application link below to explore current chef openings within Urban Kitchen Group on our Indeed company page. When applying, please highlight your experience and express your interest in the ‘UK Sponsorship Opportunity’ in your cover letter or application notes. We look forward to reviewing your qualifications and discussing how you can become a vital part of our culinary journey.