Job Description

Head Chef - Birdies

Toronto, ON | Full-Time | Opening Fall/Winter 2025

About Birdies

Birdies is a new sports bar and pub concept opening late October near College & Spadina. With a focus on elevated but approachable dining, Birdies blends refined culinary execution with the warmth and energy of a modern pub. Designed as a brand built for growth, Birdies will deliver food and beverage programs that are scalable, recognizable, and best-in-class within Toronto's competitive restaurant landscape.

The Role

We are seeking a

Head Chef

to lead the culinary program at Birdies. This role requires both technical excellence and the leadership to build and inspire a kitchen team. The Head Chef will oversee all aspects of menu development, execution, and kitchen operations -- ensuring Birdies becomes known not just for its atmosphere, but for the quality and consistency of its food.

The successful candidate will be equally at home on the line as they are with food cost analysis, vendor negotiations, and team development. This is a role for a chef who can combine creativity with discipline, bringing a modern edge to pub classics while maintaining consistency across a high-volume operation.

Responsibilities

Lead the culinary program, from concept through execution. Develop a menu that balances creativity, approachability, and scalability. Oversee daily BOH operations: prep, line, service, ordering, scheduling, and cleaning standards. Train, mentor, and inspire the BOH team, fostering a culture of accountability and growth. Maintain high standards for food quality, plating, portioning, and consistency. Manage budgets, food and labor costs, inventory, and supplier relationships. Ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation regulations. Collaborate closely with the General Manager and ownership group to align on overall guest experience, brand vision, and operational goals. Support marketing and brand initiatives with menu features, activations, and special events.

Qualifications

Minimum 5 years of experience in a leadership role within a high-volume kitchen. Strong technical foundation across modern cooking techniques and pub-style cuisine. Proven track record of menu development and cost management. Experience leading, training, and retaining a strong BOH team. Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills. Red Seal certification an asset, but not required if experience is equivalent. Passion for hospitality, teamwork, and creating memorable guest experiences.

What We Offer

Competitive salary with performance-based incentives. The opportunity to lead the culinary direction of a flagship opening in downtown Toronto. A platform to showcase creativity while building a scalable and recognizable brand. Support from a hands-on ownership group with a proven track record in hospitality. Long-term growth potential as Birdies expands across multiple locations.
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $55,000.00-$65,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person