About Rollati
Rollati is a modern Italian-American restaurant located in the heart of San Jose. As part of the Vine Hospitality portfolio, Rollati offers a unique blend of elevated comfort food, regional Italian classics, and warm, welcoming service. We’re now entering a new chapter - reenergizing our culinary identity and raising the bar for guest experience.
This is a pivotal moment for Rollati, and we’re seeking an Executive Chef to lead this transformation. If you’re a bilingual (English/Spanish) culinary leader who thrives on innovation, operational discipline, and team building - this is your opportunity to shape a concept with real growth potential.
We’re Looking for a Chef Who Can:
- Elevate the menu to new heights by bringing regional Italian comfort foods together with a refined, modern culinary experience that defines Rollati’s next chapter.
- Lead kitchen operations with a balance of hands-on leadership and system-minded thinking.
- Build a strong, stable, and skilled BOH team that takes pride in every dish.
- Partner cross-functionally with FOH, operations, and ownership to build a high-performing culture and consistent guest experience.
Key Responsibilities:
- Rebuild and Lead the Kitchen Team
Recruit, train, and inspire a motivated, cohesive team. Set the tone for professionalism, accountability, and pride. Lead daily preps, service, and kitchen meetings.
- Redefine Culinary Identity
Lead a full menu evolution, drawing from regional Italian traditions, fresh California ingredients, and modern techniques. Collaborate with leadership to ensure alignment with brand goals.
- Implement Systems and Standards
Create and maintain BOH systems: prep sheets, recipe cards, portion controls, inventory management, cleaning schedules, and daily logs.
- Manage Food & Labor Performance
Own food cost, labor efficiency, and vendor relationships. Analyze reports, address variances, and ensure margins align with financial targets.
- Maintain Operational Excellence
Ensure food safety, cleanliness, kitchen organization, and health code compliance. Lead by example and coach for daily excellence.
- Be a Strategic Partner
Partner with the GM, and restaurant leadership to align culinary direction with business goals - driving innovation, consistency, and growth.
What You Bring:
- 8–10+ years of progressive kitchen leadership, with recent experience as an Executive Chef or Chef de Cuisine.
- Background in high-volume, chef-driven restaurants—ideally with Italian, Mediterranean, or fine-casual influences.
- Experience in turnaround or growth-stage restaurant environments preferred.
- Track record of building strong teams and coaching for performance.
- Fluent in English and Spanish, with strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Hands-on, organized, and detail-oriented, with a commitment to quality and consistency.
- Culinary degree or equivalent training is a plus.
What to Expect:
- Full-time, exempt position with flexible availability (evenings, weekends, holidays).
- On-site leadership presence required - this is a kitchen-first role.
- Must be able to stand for extended periods and lift up to 40 lbs.
Compensation & Growth
This full-time, exempt role offers a competitive salary range of $95,000–$110,000, along with performance-based incentives and a comprehensive benefits package. This is a key leadership opportunity to shape the culinary direction of a flagship concept within the Vine Hospitality group.