Executive Chef - Ondîne

JF Restaurants is a New York City-based hospitality group led by Michelin-starred Chef and Restaurateur John Fraser. Ondîne is the newest project from Chef Fraser, returning to a West Village dining room as an intimate 35-seat French-inspired bistro rooted in immediacy, thoughtful sourcing, and nostalgia. Every dish is prepared with intention—from herbs cut to order to sauces finished à la minute—showcasing exceptional ingredients sourced both near and far. A focused wine list curated by Amy Racine, a limited cocktail program, and a dynamic daily offering complete the experience.

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Executive Chef to lead the culinary team and bring this vision to life. This is a rare opportunity to shape an opening restaurant from the ground up, building a culture founded on craftsmanship, collaboration, and genuine hospitality. The ideal candidate is an inspiring leader with a refined culinary background, a passion for mentorship, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. If you thrive in intimate, ingredient-driven restaurants where every detail matters, we'd love to hear from you.

Requirements

• Michelin-starred or comparable fine dining experience required.
• Passionate and inspiring culinary leader with a deep respect for French technique, seasonality, and ingredient-driven cooking.
• Proven experience leading high-performing kitchen teams with a commitment to mentorship, accountability, and collaboration.
• Strong financial acumen with experience managing food cost, labor cost, inventory, purchasing, and kitchen operations.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute menus while maintaining consistency, quality, and operational excellence.
• Exceptional organizational and communication skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• Calm, hands-on leader who thrives in a fast-paced, refined dining environment.
• Full-time availability, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Food Protection Certification required.

Responsibilities

As Executive Chef, you will lead the culinary vision and daily operations of Ondîne, working closely with the Corporate Chef to bring Chef John Fraser's concept to life. You'll build, mentor, and inspire a talented kitchen team while fostering a culture of excellence, curiosity, and genuine hospitality.

• Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, including menu execution, food quality, purchasing, inventory, food and labor cost management, staffing, training, and compliance with food safety standards.
• Collaborate with leadership on menu development, seasonal offerings, and operational strategy while ensuring every dish reflects the precision, simplicity, and craftsmanship that define Ondîne.
• Help establish the systems, standards, and culture that will shape the restaurant from day one, including hiring and developing talent, refining recipes, and supporting service.

You'll play a critical role in creating an exceptional culinary experience for both guests and the team.

Pay

Salary Range: $100,000 USD - $120,000 USD