Vail, CO – La Nonna Ristorante is hiring a Sous Chef. “La Nonna”, Italian for grandmother, reflects our passion for Italian food, wine and creating memories with friends and family. Located in Vail Village, we are a fast-paced restaurant that takes pride in the quality of our food and our guest service. As a result of our high standards, we are looking for an experienced, passionate, exceptionally skilled Sous Chef to help us continue our legacy.
The Sous Chef supports the Head Chef in leading daily kitchen operations, ensuring consistent quality of Italian-inspired dishes. This role requires a balance of culinary skill, leadership, and operational efficiency to maintain high standards of food preparation, service, and safety.
Key Responsibilities
Assist the Head Chef in menu execution and daily specials, with a focus on classic and contemporary Italian cuisine.
Supervise and support kitchen staff during service, ensuring proper food preparation, cooking, and plating.
Maintain consistent portioning, presentation, and taste across all dishes.
Manage daily prep schedules, inventory levels, and ingredient sourcing in coordination with the Head Chef.
Train and mentor line cooks, prep cooks, and new hires.
Uphold food safety, sanitation, and health code requirements.
Step in to lead the kitchen in the absence of the Head Chef.
Assist with cost control, including waste management and ingredient utilization.
Communicate with and work closely with Front of House management and staff.
Qualifications
5+ years of professional cooking experience, with at least 2 years experience at the same restaurant.
Minimum of 2 years experience in a sous chef role.
Strong familiarity with Italian cuisine, including pasta-making, sauces, roasting, and regional specialties.
Must be authorized to work in the United States.
Ability to communicate in English and Spanish, in both written and spoken forms.
Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
Ability to work six days a week if needed.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and remain composed under pressure.
Excellent leadership and communication skills for managing a diverse kitchen team.
Working knowledge of inventory control and kitchen management systems.
Ability to work with Microsoft Office computer program.
Desired Traits
Passion for Italian food and culture.
Strong attention to detail and presentation.
Creativity to contribute ideas for menu development.
Reliability, punctuality, and a collaborative attitude.
Physical Requirements
Ability to stand for extended periods.
Comfortable lifting up to 40 lbs.
Additional Information
Housing or accommodations are not provided with this position.
Salary
$79-$83,000 /year
$72-76,000 - base salary
$6,000 - housing stipend (ongoing, bonus?)
$1,000 - lifestyle benefit (ski pass / gym / parking)
Benefits
Paid time off (shoulder season)
Wellness/Recreation/Transportation Stipend
Simple IRA retirement plan
