About the Role
Join the opening team at Ondîne, the newest project from Chef John Fraser. This intimate 35-seat French-inspired bistro is rooted in immediacy, thoughtful sourcing, and nostalgia. We are seeking experienced Executive Chef candidates 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.
Responsibilities
- Lead the culinary vision and daily operations of Ondîne.
- Work closely with Corporate Chef to bring Chef John Fraser's concept to life.
- Build, mentor, and inspire a talented kitchen team.
- Foster 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.
- Ensure 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.
- Hire and develop talent.
- Refine recipes and support service.
- Create an exceptional culinary experience for both guests and the team.
Requirements
- Michelin-starred or comparable fine dining experience required.
- 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.
- A 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.
Skills
- French technique
- Seasonality
- Ingredient-driven cooking
- Mentorship
- Accountability
- Collaboration
- Financial acumen
- Menu development
- Operational excellence
- Organizational skills
- Communication skills
- Attention to detail
- Team leadership
Location
- New York City
Work Type
- Full-time
Experience Level
- Executive Chef
Education Level
- Food Protection Certification
Salary/Compensations
- $100,000—$120,000 USD
About the Company
- 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 John Fraser, returning to the same West Village dining room years after an earlier chapter.
- Chef Fraser reimagines the space 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.
Equal Opportunity
- John Fraser Restaurants is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
