Kitchen Manager

Job Description:

The AM Kitchen Manager oversees all morning kitchen operations — ensuring prep, production, and lunch service (if applicable) are executed to Adalina’s standards of quality, consistency, and organization. This role requires a strong leader who can balance hands-on cooking with administrative oversight, coaching, and communication across departments.

You will lead the prep team, monitor daily production sheets, manage inventory and ordering, and ensure that all mise en place is properly executed for evening service.

Daily Operations & Leadership

• Lead and supervise all AM kitchen staff (prep cooks, pastry prep, receivers, and dish team).

• Conduct daily line/prep checks to ensure quality, labeling, and freshness standards.

• Communicate clearly with the PM team to guarantee smooth transitions between shifts.

• Manage time sheets, schedules, and daily production priorities.

Quality & Consistency

• Uphold all Adalina Prime recipes, plating standards, and prep specifications.

• Ensure consistency in flavor, texture, and presentation across all menu items.

• Actively coach and develop cooks to strengthen their technical skills and organization.

Inventory & Ordering

• Oversee daily ordering and receiving with the Executive Chef and Sous Chefs.

• Track waste, prep yields, and par levels to maintain food cost targets.

• Conduct weekly inventory counts and communicate shortages proactively.

Sanitation & Compliance

• Enforce proper food handling, labeling, and rotation practices (FIFO).

• Maintain compliance with Chicago Department of Health and ServSafe standards.

• Ensure all kitchen areas meet cleanliness and safety expectations at all times.

• 3+ years of professional kitchen experience, with at least 1 year in a leadership or management role

• Deep understanding of prep systems, batch cooking, and fine-dining standards

• Strong organizational and communication skills

• Ability to lead and motivate a diverse kitchen team

• Working knowledge of inventory management and ordering platforms

• ServSafe Certification preferred