The Opportunity We are seeking a talented, innovative, and passionate Head Chef to join our team. This is a leadership role for a chef who thrives on collaboration, creativity, and delivering an exceptional dining experience. You will oversee all culinary operations, from menu development to team leadership, ensuring we maintain the businesses vision for quality, seasonality, and exceptional flavor and fun, unique plating.
About Us Ruby’s is an exciting new concept built on the legacy of The Belmont in Ottawa. Combining the laid-back charm of a neighborhood bar with the allure of a classic steakhouse, Ruby’s offers a bold take on classic Canadiana, taking the best that our region offers and presenting it in a familiar and refined way. Think of it as the soul of a modern gastropub meeting the playful energy of a treasured tavern, creating a space where comfort and creativity collide. It's the perfect spot for those craving something approachable and nostalgic, yet elevated and unexpected.
As Head Chef, you will have the unique opportunity to develop and lead the kitchen for a destination restaurant set to redefine dining in Ottawa’s historic market district.
Key Responsibilities:
- Menu Development & Culinary Innovation
- Curate a seasonal and dynamic menu inspired by Classic Americana, East Coast and British cuisines.
- Highlight local, fresh, and sustainable ingredients in approachable yet refined dishes.
- Collaborate with ownership to balance creativity, cost management, and customer appeal.
- Kitchen Operations & Leadership
- Lead, inspire, and train a dedicated culinary team to achieve excellence in food quality and presentation.
- Establish systems to ensure efficient kitchen operations, including prep, line execution, inventory, and waste management.
- Uphold the highest standards of cleanliness, food safety, and compliance with health regulations.
- Financial & Strategic Planning
- Manage food costs, inventory control, and vendor relationships to meet budget targets.
- Implement procedures to minimize food waste and maximize profitability.
- Analyze menu performance and make data-driven adjustments to optimize offerings.
- Team Development
- Build a positive, respectful kitchen culture that emphasizes teamwork, accountability, and continuous learning.
- Identify and nurture talent within the team to promote growth and longevity.
- Collaboration with Ownership
- Guest Experience
- Ensure every dish leaving the kitchen reflects the quality and vision of Ruby’s
- Partner with front-of-house leadership to deliver a seamless and exceptional dining experience for guests.
Qualifications:
- 5+ years of experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a high-quality, full-service kitchen.
- Proven experience designing and executing seasonal menus that celebrate fresh ingredients.
- Strong understanding of French, Italian, and North American cuisine.
- Exceptional leadership skills with a passion for mentoring and developing culinary teams.
- A solid grasp of financial management, including food costing, budgeting, and inventory control.
- High standards for cleanliness, organization, and attention to detail.
- Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate across departments.
- Formal culinary education is an asset but not required.
Why Join Us?
- Be part of an exciting new restaurant concept in the heart of Ottawa’s Byward Market.
- Shape the culinary direction of a venue set to become a cornerstone of the city’s dining scene.
- Collaborate with a dynamic and passionate leadership team committed to excellence.
- Competitive salary, supportive work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Benefits package
- Relocation allowance
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: $65,000.00-$85,000.00 per year
Additional pay:
- Bonus pay
- Overtime pay
Benefits:
- Relocation assistance
Flexible language requirement:
- French not required
Work Location: In person