Sous Chef at Divya’s Kitchen

At Divya’s Kitchen, located in the East Village, we are dedicated to crafting a plant-based menu that emphasizes optimal flavor and digestion, inspired by Ayurvedic principles. Our commitment to using the freshest, sustainably sourced ingredients reflects our respect for the planet and our community. We strive to create a dining experience that nurtures both the body and the spirit, while honoring the art of culinary creativity.

Position Summary
We are seeking a passionate Sous Chef to join our kitchen team. Working closely with the Chef de Cuisine, the Sous Chef will play a crucial role in maintaining high standards of quality assurance throughout all kitchen operations. This position focuses on ensuring the flawless execution of our innovative menu, monitoring pars, and upholding the culinary integrity of our dishes.

Job Responsibilities

• Supervise kitchen staff and conduct line checks to proactively address any issues that arise, maintaining a smooth and efficient kitchen environment.
• Foster positive employee relations in alignment with our values, adhering to best practices and compliance with NYC regulations.
• Plan and direct food preparation processes while actively participating in cooking alongside the team.
• Fill in as necessary for all back-of-house positions, including working the line, garde manger, baking, and prep, to meet business demands.
• Ensure adherence to kitchen safety, health compliance, and sanitation standards.
• Monitor quality assurance and manage par levels to ensure that all ingredients and dishes meet our high standards for freshness and flavor.
• Communicate effectively to support the team in executing recipes and achieving high standards using the best ingredients.
• Lead by example, demonstrating strong leadership qualities, maintaining composure under pressure, and treating all team members with respect.

Knowledge, Experience, and Skills

• Culinary degree or certification is highly desirable.
• A minimum of two (2) years of experience in a restaurant setting, preferably in upscale-casual dining and/or high-volume environments.
• A deep passion for local, organic, and sustainably sourced ingredients, especially within the context of plant-based cooking.
• Proficient knife skills and a strong understanding of diverse cooking methods, ingredients, and equipment.
• Experience working multiple stations within the kitchen.