JOB OVERVIEW

Melrose Market is an American Brasserie & Market coming to Columbia, SC in early 2026. This will be a full service restaurant and bar with a small retail and lounge area. There will also be an expansive outdoor covered dining area.
We are seeking a talented and passionate Executive Chef to lead our culinary team in delivering exceptional dining experiences. This is a new restaurant from the owners of other highly successful local and statewide establishments. The location is nestled between multiple neighborhoods and offers a unique neighborhood cafe type experience.
The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in upscale casual dining and food service management, with a keen eye for detail and a commitment to food safety and quality. As the Executive Chef, you will be responsible for menu planning, inventory control, hiring and supervising kitchen staff to ensure the highest standards of food production.
This is a flexible opportunity that can be tailored to the right candidate. The menu will offer streamlined basics combined with plenty of room for creativity. The hours are reasonable with a focus on daytime and early evening dining along with some special dinner offerings. Melrose Market will plan to be open Tuesday-Saturday with additional time off around holidays.
Our Chef can stay behind the scenes or work towards a more public role. There may also be additional business opportunities in the future. The culture will foster positivity and teamwork along with a good work-life balance. A variety of compensation packages are possible.

SKILLS

• Strong knowledge of kitchen operations and food service management principles.
• Expertise in food safety practices and regulations.
• Proficient in menu planning with an emphasis on a blend of quality basics and unique offerings .
• Experience with inventory control systems and cost management strategies.
• Background in upscale causal or fine dining establishments with a focus on high-quality food production and volume.
• Excellent supervisory skills with the ability to lead a diverse team effectively.
• Strong communication skills for collaboration with both kitchen and restaurant staff.
• Passion for the food industry, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement in culinary techniques.

• Oversee all kitchen operations, ensuring efficient workflow and adherence to food safety standards.
• Develop and design innovative menus that reflect seasonal ingredients and culinary trends.
• Manage inventory control, including ordering supplies and maintaining stock levels to minimize waste.
• Supervise kitchen staff, providing training and guidance to enhance their skills and performance.
• Ensure that all dishes are prepared to the highest quality standards before serving.
• Collaborate with front-of-house staff to ensure seamless service and guest satisfaction.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen, adhering to health regulations.
• Monitor food production processes to ensure consistency in taste, presentation, and portion sizes.