Executive Chef — Five Leaves
About Five Leaves
Five Leaves is a long standing Greenpoint bistro serving New American fare with an Aussie accent. Open early for brunch and continuing service through dinner daily. With a loyal local and international following, the focus is on the food but is supported by strong coffee and cocktail programs. The venue is compact but highly efficient, its distinct character defined by handcrafted design, curated music, and genuine hospitality.
About the Role
As Head Chef, you’ll play a central role in continuing to define and shape the culinary identity of Five Leaves.
People are at the heart of what we do. This is a hands-on, full-spectrum role where you’ll lead kitchen operations, drive innovation, and balance creativity with consistency and cost control.
You will be responsible for managing all aspects of our culinary offerings. Your leadership will drive culinary excellence, innovative menu development, and foster a vibrant and efficient workplace.
You’ll work closely with the ownership and management team to establish efficient systems and meet cost and labor budget goals. You care about kitchen culture, value collaboration between front and back of house, and love working with quality ingredients to champion excellent food.
About You
We are looking for a driven, experienced chef who leads by example — calm in the chaos, clear in communication, and passionate about real food.
You’ve worked in busy, quality-focused venues and know how to work within a budget and organize a schedule based on labor efficiency. You’re organized, solutions-focused, and bring out the best in your team.
You care about kitchen culture and understand the value of strong back-and-front-of-house relationships. Most of all, you’re looking to be part of something meaningful; a team that cares about good food, good people, and doing things the right way.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee daily kitchen operations, team management, and FOH coordination
- Plan menus, recipe development, and food preparation
- Create and maintain a BOH schedule that works efficiently and within labor goals and budget
- Maintain strict food safety and hygiene standards
- Monitor stock levels and place orders as required
- Collaborate with the front-of-house team to provide exceptional customer service
- Continuously improve processes and procedures to increase kitchen efficiency
- Manage food and labour costs, supplier relationships, and inventory
- Mentor and train kitchen staff with regular feedback and support
- Maintain a positive and professional work environment
Skills & Experience
- Ability to manage staff performance, including unsatisfactory performance
- Experience in managing and maintaining food safety programs, including documentation
- Rostering and ordering experience
- Understanding of financial budgets, food and labor costs
- Excellent attention to detail
- Outstanding time management
- Proficient Spanish Language skills are ideal
- Full availability, able and willing to work weekends, public holidays, opening and closing shifts
What We’re Looking For
- Minimum 3 years experience as an Executive Chef
- Strong knowledge of food preparation, plating, and presentation techniques
- Excellent time management and multitasking skills to thrive in a busy kitchen
- Proven ability to lead and mentor a team of chefs and kitchen staff
- Passion for using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create delicious, innovative dishes
- Food safety and hygiene certification
At Five Leaves we not only celebrate diversity, we thrive on it, and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. As such, we are an Equal Opportunity Employer.
