Job Details

Executive Sous Chef at Vandelay Hospitality Group

About Vandelay Hospitality Group

For over a decade, Vandelay Hospitality Group has defined what it means to deliver iconic, enduring hospitality experiences. With a growing portfolio of distinctive brands and markets nationwide, we are driven by a passion for craftsmanship, connection, and the pursuit of excellence. Every Vandelay concept celebrates the spirit of American dining: timeless spaces, genuine warmth, and an uncompromising commitment to quality that leaves a lasting impression on every guest who walks through our doors.

What truly sets Vandelay apart is our dedication to growth. Both for our company and for our people. We are expanding across markets nationwide, creating meaningful pathways for advancement and culinary development at every level. Executive Chefs are given the tools, mentorship, and visibility to build long-term careers within an organization that rewards initiative, craftsmanship, and a deep passion for hospitality.

About the Opportunity

As an Executive Sous Chef at Drake's Hollywood, you'll play a defining role in bringing our culinary vision to life each day. This is more than running a kitchen; it's an opportunity to shape culture, elevate standards, and create experiences that reflect the heart of our brand. You'll lead a talented culinary team with purpose and authenticity, oversee kitchen operations with precision, and uphold the excellence that distinguishes Vandelay restaurants in every detail of food quality, presentation, and execution.

In this role, you will guide menu execution, drive operational performance, mentor emerging leaders, and contribute to a kitchen culture defined by teamwork, consistency, and pride. This is a chance to make a lasting impact on each guest's experience while growing within a group that values your talent, your leadership, and your commitment to the craft.

Core Responsibilities

• Prepare meals to meet the specifications of guests in a timely manner in accordance with Vandelay Hospitality Group standards
• Ensure kitchen team adheres to set standards, procedures and safety and sanitation requirements
• Manage the kitchen inventory and ensure supplies are fresh and of high quality
• Ensure proper food temperatures when cooking and proper storage afterward
• Lead the kitchen opening, closing and other kitchen operations as directed
• Assist with interviewing, hiring, training and follow up with new team members
• Continuously cross-train, develop and mentor team members
• Lead pre-shift meetings and update the team on any key business and / or menu updates
• Ensure all food and products are consistently prepared and served according to company recipes, portioning, cooking and serving standards
• Ensure all reports, documentation and other information required by our corporate office are submitted in a timely and accurate manner
• Create and maintain organizational systems in kitchens that reflect the flow of operations
• Ensure adherence to all local, state and federal laws and regulations
• Adhere to all disciplinary action guidelines set by the company
• Attend and participate in weekly manager meetings

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required; Bachelor's Degree in Culinary / Restaurant / Hospitality Management or similar field of study strongly preferred
• 2+ years of full service culinary experience strongly preferred
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including evenings, weekends and holidays
• Trustworthy, detail-obsessed and open to constructive feedback
• Exceptional communication skills both written and verbal

Perks

• Medical, Dental and Vision benefits available
• Paid Time Off
• Dining discounts at all Vandelay Hospitality Group concepts
• Professional development and career growth
• Robust Manager in Training program
• All Vandelay Hospitality Group restaurants are closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and the 4th of July so our team can celebrate with their friends and family
• A collaborative, uplifting culture where we take care of our guests by taking care of our people first

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• Ability to work standing and walking for extended periods of time

If you're a passionate leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is eager to grow with a company that values hospitality and teamwork, we'd love to hear from you!

Vandelay Hospitality Group provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, or any other federal/state protected category.