Head Chef/Restaurant Manager – Waterfront Bistro on Lake Union
Location: Bowriders Grill – Lake Union, Seattle
Type: Full-Time | Seasonal Peak with Off-Season Opportunities
Start Date: ASAP
Bowriders Grill is a popular casual waterfront restaurant on Lake Union known for its fresh, creative food, laid-back dock-and-dine vibe, and unbeatable Seattle views. We’re now hiring a Head Chef/Restaurant Manager to lead our back-of-house and front-of-house operations, following the departure of our current head chef.
This is a leadership-first role for someone who can manage people as skillfully as they manage a kitchen. We're seeking a candidate with strong organizational and managerial experience, who can keep a busy service running smoothly while inspiring and developing a high-performing team.
About the Role:
- Lead all BOH/FOH operations in a modern kitchen with Montague and Perlick equipment
- Supervise and schedule staff, providing leadership, mentorship, and accountability
- Maintain labor efficiency, food costs, and inventory controls
- Collaborate closely with all staff to ensure smooth daily operations, including patio and dockside service
- Maintain high standards for cleanliness, food safety, and guest satisfaction
- Create and update seasonal menus in line with our fresh, casual concept
- Build upon great customer relationships
Ideal Candidate:
- Proven experience as a head chef, kitchen manager, or BOH leader in a fast-paced, high-volume setting
- Strong organizational and team management skills
- Ability to lead calmly under pressure and handle staffing or operational challenges
- Experience with scheduling, cost control, vendor management, and food safety compliance
- Passion for high-quality, approachable food and a collaborative team culture
What We Offer:
- Competitive pay
- Health benefits
- 401(k) plan
- Seasonal bonuses and staff perks
- Opportunities for off-season catering/events
- Supportive ownership and a strong team environment
- A high-visibility location with consistent traffic and loyal customers
Pay:
$90,000 annual salary plus tips and profit sharing
If you're a confident leader with a strong culinary background who knows how to build a team and run a tight ship, we’d love to hear from you.