head chef

*Head Chef ? Authentic Italian Restaurant | Downtown Toronto* *$60,000 ? $70,000 per year* On behalf of our client, a growing *authentic Italian restaurant* in downtown Toronto, we are seeking a talented and driven *Head Chef* to take full ownership of their kitchen. This is an excellent opportunity for a well-credentialed sous chef who is ready to step into their first Head Chef role and lead a kitchen focused on *truly authentic, high-quality Italian cuisine*. *The Opportunity* Our client is looking for a culinary leader who will be responsible for the quality, consistency, and authenticity of everything leaving the kitchen. The food here is *very Italian* ? traditional techniques, genuine flavours, and a deep respect for classic Italian cooking. The owners are hands-on and actively involved, so you will work closely with them day-to-day. With plans to expand into catering and additional projects, there is strong potential for upward mobility and the chance to help shape the future of the company. *Key Responsibilities* * Lead the kitchen team day-to-day, setting and maintaining the highest standards for authentic Italian food quality, presentation, and timing * Develop and refine menus that stay true to genuine Italian cuisine ? balancing tradition, seasonality, and operational efficiency * Oversee ordering, inventory management, and cost control with a focus on quality Italian ingredients * Hire, train, schedule, and mentor kitchen staff in authentic Italian cooking techniques and standards * Uphold rigorous food safety, cleanliness, and organizational standards * Collaborate closely with the hands-on owners and front-of-house on special events, authentic Italian catering opportunities, and future concepts * Contribute ideas as the company expands into catering and new projects while protecting the integrity of the Italian menu Ideal Candidate * Proven experience as a sous chef (or equivalent senior kitchen role) in a high-quality restaurant, ideally with strong Italian cuisine experience * Deep knowledge of and passion for *authentic Italian cooking* ? this is not fusion or ?Italian-inspired?; the food must be genuinely Italian * Strong technical skills, refined palate, and respect for traditional Italian methods and ingredients * Demonstrated leadership ability and readiness to own a kitchen * Excellent organizational and communication skills, including the ability to work effectively with hands-on ownership * Valid food safety certification (or willingness to obtain) * Based in or willing to work in downtown Toronto Compensation & Growth * Competitive salary range: *$55,000 ? $70,000* depending on experience * Opportunity to lead a kitchen focused on *very authentic Italian cuisine* for the first time * Direct collaboration with hands-on owners * Clear path for advancement as the company expands into catering and other projects * Supportive environment that values culinary integrity, creativity, and professional development * Dynamic downtown Toronto location If you are a skilled sous chef with a genuine passion for authentic Italian food, ready to step up, work closely with engaged ownership, and grow with a company that has real momentum, we would like to hear from you. Pay: $55,000.00-$70,000.00 per year Application question(s): * Do you have extensive work history for reputable Italian restaurants? Experience: * Fine Dining: 4 years (required) * Sous Chef : 2 years (required) Work Location: In person Location Toronto , ON Work location On site Salary $ 55,000 to $ 70,000 YEAR annually Terms of employment Full time Starts as soon as possible vacancies 1 vacancy Source indeed.com #10233733619 Various locations Toronto, ON