Executive Chef

About The 406 Restaurant:
Located in a beautifully restored home, The 406 Restaurant offers an upscale yet approachable dining experience in the heart of Live Oak, Florida. Our menu features upscale cuisine with an elevated twist, showcasing fresh local produce, seafood, premium cuts of meat, and house-made desserts. Guests enjoy a full-service bar with a curated wine list, handcrafted cocktails, and nightly live entertainment. With seating for 150 guests, including indoor dining rooms and an outdoor deck overlooking our historic gardens, The 406 is a destination for both casual dinners and special events.

Position Summary:
We are seeking an experienced and passionate Executive Chef to lead our culinary team. This role combines hands-on cooking with kitchen management responsibilities, including menu development, staff supervision, and operational oversight. The ideal candidate will be enthusiastic about crafting classic dishes, experimenting with specials, and incorporating local ingredients to elevate our offerings.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare and oversee the execution of classic and contemporary dishes, ensuring consistency and quality
• Develop seasonal menus and daily specials that highlight local produce and seafood
• Collaborate with ownership on menu planning and culinary direction
• Manage kitchen operations, including inventory, ordering, scheduling, and compliance with health regulations
• Lead, train, and mentor kitchen staff, fostering a positive and efficient work environment
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and organization in the kitchen
• Stay informed about new culinary trends and equipment to enhance kitchen performance

Qualifications:

• Proven experience as an Executive Chef or Kitchen Manager in a high-quality restaurant setting
• Strong culinary skills, particularly in sauce preparation and classic cooking techniques
• Creative flair for developing innovative dishes and adapting menus
• Excellent leadership and team management abilities
• Familiarity with sourcing and utilizing local ingredients, with a preference for experience in Florida cuisine
• Ability to work collaboratively with ownership and front-of-house staff
• Commitment to maintaining a safe and sanitary kitchen environment

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary of $70,000 annually
• Opportunity to influence the culinary direction of a respected local restaurant
• Supportive ownership open to innovation
• Access to high-quality, locally sourced ingredients
• A chance to work in a historic and charming setting that values both tradition and creativity

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
The 406 on Duval is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.