Executive Chef

About the role

Located in the Wedgewood‑Houston neighborhood, Aba — meaning “father” in Hebrew — is a Mediterranean restaurant with a California influence. With locations in Austin, TX, Chicago, IL, and Nashville, TN, the menu features Top Chef alum Chef Partner CJ Jacobson’s modern approach to Mediterranean cooking, and the beverage program showcases spirits and rare wines from lesser‑known Mediterranean regions. Aba Nashville is part of Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants, a culinary‑driven company with over 90 locations and more than 55 concepts ranging from fast casual to fine dining, supported by a Culture of Caring.

Responsibilities

• Oversee, monitor, and ensure effective and efficient back‑of‑house operations, including consistent purchasing standards, inventory control, and food‑cost tracking
• Provide guidance and leadership to hourly and management teams while fostering the Culture of Caring
• Research, develop, and execute seasonal menus and new menu items in partnership with divisional leaders
• Ensure effective BOH training in collaboration with divisional trainers and chefs
• Conduct quarterly in‑restaurant audits of BOH standard operating procedures and systems
• Partner with designated chefs to purchase and order food product and supplies
• Partner with the General Manager and/or designated managers/chefs to regularly review and maintain recipe books
• Create new and maintain existing recipe costing in partnership with the GM and designated chefs
• Partner with the GM and management team to interview, hire, onboard, train, supervise, and develop all BOH employees and teams as needed
• Model and promote teamwork across all teams
• Use tact and good judgment when dealing with challenges pertaining to guests, vendors, and employees; respond with patience and courtesy
• Work a variety of days and shifts (including early mornings, late nights, and weekends) at multiple sites with or without overnight travel, as needed
• Move and lift up to 10 lb frequently, up to 25 lb frequently, and up to 50 lb occasionally

Requirements

• 5+ years of Executive Chef experience in a full‑service restaurant
• Ability to lead and develop teams
• Skilled in managing back‑of‑house systems

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Quarterly bonus
• Paid Time Off — including paid holidays, personal days, and vacation
• 401(k)
• Blue Cross Blue Shield medical insurance
• Dental & vision insurance
• Life, accident protection & critical illness insurance
• Domestic partner benefits
• Restaurant discounts
• Employee Assistance Program — focusing on a commitment to mental health & wellness

Pay

USD $70,000.00 – $100,000.00 per year