Enoteca Harlem is dedicated to offering an authentic Basque and  Spanish dining experience that showcases the rich flavors, ingredients, and culinary traditions of the region. We pride ourselves on high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients, exceptional service, and creating a memorable dining experience for our guests. We are looking for a talented and passionate chef to join our kitchen team and help us continue to innovate while honoring the traditional flavors of Basque and  Spanish cuisine.

Position Overview:
As the Chef specializing in Basque or Spanish cuisine, you will lead our kitchen team in preparing and presenting dishes that celebrate the vibrant culinary heritage of Spain, with a focus on fresh, seasonal, and locally-sourced ingredients. You will work closely with the executive chef and front-of-house staff to create a dynamic menu that captures the essence of Spanish gastronomy, with an emphasis on the Basque region's distinctive flavors and techniques.

Key Responsibilities:

• Menu Development: Collaborate with the executive chef and culinary team to design and execute a seasonal menu that highlights the best of Basque and/or Spanish cuisine. Ensure the menu features both traditional and contemporary dishes, using locally-sourced, high-quality ingredients.
• Food Preparation and Presentation: Oversee the preparation, cooking, and presentation of all dishes. Ensure that dishes are prepared according to recipe specifications, presented beautifully, and meet the restaurant's high standards of quality and taste.
• Grilling, Roasting, and Braising: Expertly execute traditional Basque cooking techniques, including grilling, roasting, and braising, with a particular focus on seafood, meats, and vegetables native to the region.
• Inventory and Ordering: Manage inventory and ensure that all ingredients, especially key regional items like seafood, cured meats, cheeses, and vegetables, are sourced and stocked in a timely and efficient manner. Work with suppliers to procure the finest products available.
• Quality Control: Maintain high standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and food safety in the kitchen. Ensure all dishes adhere to the restaurant's quality, presentation, and taste standards.
• Culinary Innovation: Stay up-to-date with new techniques, trends, and culinary innovations within Basque and Spanish cuisine. Continuously strive to enhance and evolve the restaurant’s offerings while maintaining respect for tradition.
• Customer Experience: Work closely with the front-of-house team to ensure that the food being served aligns with guest expectations. Ensure the kitchen is responsive to customer requests, special dietary needs, and service demands.

Qualifications:

• Experience: At least 1year of experience working, with a focus on Basque, Spanish, or Mediterranean cuisine. Experience in a fine-dining or high-end restaurant environment is preferred.
• Culinary Training: Formal culinary education from an accredited institution is a plus, but extensive experience with Basque or Spanish culinary techniques may be considered in place of formal education.
• Deep Knowledge of Basque or Spanish Cuisine: Strong familiarity with traditional Basque dishes (such as merluza a la vasca, txangurro, pintxos) and Spanish classics (such as paella, tortilla española, gazpacho, jamón ibérico). Expertise in working with key regional ingredients like seafood, cured meats, and fresh vegetables.
• Skills: Proficiency in a variety of cooking techniques, including grilling, braising, roasting, sautéing, and frying. Ability to execute complex dishes while maintaining consistency and quality under pressure.
• Leadership: Strong leadership and communication skills with experience managing a team. Ability to mentor and inspire junior staff members.
• Passion for Food: A deep passion for Spanish or Basque gastronomy and culture, with a commitment to culinary excellence.
• Creativity and Innovation: Ability to blend traditional recipes with modern cooking techniques to create a unique dining experience.
• Language Skills: Proficiency in Spanish (both written and spoken) is a plus but not required.

Desired Personal Attributes:

• Attention to Detail: Ability to deliver exceptional food quality, presentation, and consistency every time.
• Collaborative Spirit: Strong team player who works well with both kitchen and front-of-house teams to ensure a seamless and enjoyable dining experience for guests.
• Time Management: Excellent time management and organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Adaptability: Flexibility and adaptability in a busy, high-pressure kitchen environment.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Opportunity for career growth and advancement within the company
• Employee discounts on meals and beverages
• Health benefits and paid time off (if applicable)
• Support for continuing education in culinary arts and food culture
• A dynamic and supportive team atmosphere