Job description
Magnolia Heritage Kitchen is a celebrated hub for traditional cuisine, rooted in Cajun, Creole, and regional Louisiana flavors. We are seeking a seasoned Head Chef to lead our kitchen, preserve authentic techniques, and craft high-standard dishes that wow locals and visitors alike. This is a premium opportunity for a culinary leader who values quality ingredients, refined execution, and a collaborative, high-standard kitchen culture.
Based in New Orleans, our concept blends heritage recipes with modern presentation, inviting you to shape the menu, mentor a talented culinary team, and drive guest satisfaction through exceptional taste and storytelling on every plate.
Responsibility
- Lead daily kitchen operations for traditional cuisine, ensuring authenticity, consistency, and timely service.
- Develop and curate seasonally inspired menus rooted in Cajun, Creole, and regional Louisiana flavors.
- Train, mentor, and manage a high-performance culinary team; recruit and onboard new staff as needed.
- Oversee kitchen budgeting, food costs, portion control, and waste reduction strategies.
- Ensure compliance with sanitation, safety, and HACCP standards; maintain rigorous kitchen cleanliness.
- Collaborate with suppliers to source authentic ingredients and negotiate favorable terms.
- Maintain high standards of plating, presentation, and guest experience; respond to feedback with iterative improvements.
Qualification
- 5+ years of leadership experience in traditional or regional cuisine, preferably in Cajun Creole or Louisiana culture.
- Culinary degree or equivalent professional training; strong classical technique.
- Proven ability to design menus, manage food costs, and drive profitability.
- Excellent knife skills, timing, and multi-station kitchen management.
- In-depth knowledge of local ingredients, seafood, and spice profiles typical of Louisiana cuisine.
- Strong leadership, communication, and mentor skills; capacity to cultivate a positive kitchen culture.
- Certified food safety manager or HACCP knowledge; up to date with health and safety regulations.