Head Chef

Calexico, a New York City–based restaurant group founded in 2006 by three brothers from Calexico, blends Mexican flavors with Southern BBQ. Known for its scratch-made, fresh dishes, Calexico expanded from food trucks to restaurants, with its first Brooklyn location earning accolades such as Time Out New York’s Best New Mexican Restaurant (2010) and Zagat’s Top Mexican Restaurant in NYC (2011). In 2016, Calexico opened its first restaurant in the Kingdom of Bahrain, which has since become a top destination for authentic flavors, excellent service, and vibrant dining experiences.

Title: Head Chef

Location: Bahrain

Department: Kitchen

Reports to: General Manager

We are seeking a dynamic and creative culinary professional to lead our kitchen team. The ideal candidate will bring passion for food, a strong sense of leadership, and deep knowledge of Mexican cuisine and kitchen operations.

1. Preparation & Cooking: Ensure all ingredients are prepped and cooked according to recipes, maintaining Calexico’s high standards.
2. Quality Control: Monitor taste, presentation, and portion consistency.
3. Food Safety & Hygiene: Uphold health, safety, and sanitation standards at all times.
4. Inventory Management: Track stock levels, place orders, and oversee weekly/monthly inventories.
5. Equipment Care: Properly use and maintain kitchen equipment; report issues promptly.
6. Collaboration: Work closely with fellow chefs and service staff to ensure smooth daily operations.
7. Training & Development: Mentor and train new team members, sharing expertise in techniques and cuisine.
8. Menu Knowledge: Stay familiar with all menu items and contribute ideas for specials or new dishes.
9. Time Management: Maintain efficiency during prep and service, especially during peak hours.
10. Waste Management: Implement best practices to minimize waste and encourage sustainability.
11. Customer Focus: Be open to feedback to continuously improve food and service quality.

• Based in Bahrain or willing to relocate.
• Fluency in English (written and spoken).
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a similar leadership role.
• High School Diploma or equivalent required; culinary training, certifications, or higher education are an advantage.