Executive Chef
- Library Restaurant
- 401 state streetPortsmouth, New Hampshire
- 4 days ago
- Full Time
Job Summary
Job Description
A rare opportunity to lead one of New England’s most iconic dining rooms
The Library Restaurant has experienced a period of significant growth, and we are seeking an Executive Chef who can deliver perfect execution of exceptional food, lead a strong team, and help elevate us to topsteakhouse status. This is a working chef role in a wellstaffed, wellsupported kitchen with two strong sous chefs and owners deeply committed to operational excellence, sustainable schedules and a collaborative approach.
A background in steakhouses, classic American cuisine, or highvolume high-end dining is strongly preferred. Formal culinary training is required.
Why This Role Is Different
• A fully staffed kitchen with stability and depth
• Ownership committed to sustainable schedules and a healthy culture
• A restaurant with a strong brand, loyal guest base, and major growth trajectory
• The autonomy and authority to shape the kitchen, the menu, and the team
• A chance to build something lasting — not just maintain the status quo
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Team Development
• Full accountability for all kitchen operations, menu execution, and kitchen staff
• Hire, train, manage, and mentor a professional team of sous chefs, cooks, and dishwashers
• Build a cohesive, highperformance culture rooted in respect, consistency, and excellence
• Lead by example as the working chef on the line, setting the tone for precision and discipline
Culinary Excellence & Menu Execution
• Ensure every menu item is executed to the highest standard, every service, every plate
• Collaborate with sous chefs, FOH / bar leadership, and ownership to evolve the menu and elevate the steakhouse program
• Deliver exceptional meal service in partnership with the FOH Manager, maintaining correct turn times and flawless quality
• Maintain impeccable food safety, sanitation, and health standards throughout the kitchen
Operational & Financial Management
• Manage food costs, kitchen labor costs, and menu pricing with accuracy and strategy
• Use scheduling and payroll tools to maintain appropriate staffing levels (currently intentionally overstaffed for stability)
• Oversee food procurement, supplier relationships, and order management
• Maintain accurate inventory, recipe costing, and waste control systems
• Monitor equipment quality and coordinate with ownership on repairs and new installations
What We’re Looking For
• Formal culinary education
• Proven experience as an Executive Chef or highlevel Sous Chef in a steakhouse or comparable high volume high enddining environment
• A team player
• A leader who thrives in a handson role and inspires excellence in others
• Strong operational discipline: costing, ordering, scheduling, inventory, and recipe management
• A calm, professional presence who elevates the team and the guest experience
What We Offer
• A stable, wellstaffed kitchen with two strong sous chefs
• A leadership team that values balance, professionalism, and longterm success
• Competitive compensation aligned with experience and performance
• The opportunity to shape the future of a destination restaurant with a powerful brand
If you’re a chef who wants to build, lead, and execute at the highest level — while working with owners and General Manager who genuinely support their team — we’d love to speak with you.
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Job Summary
Benefit Insights
Library Restaurant
Job ID: 506851252
Originally Posted on: 1/21/2026