Luna Italian Restaurant is seeking a skilled and passionate chef to join our team who will contribute to our cooking approach and menu development for our Mechanicsburg location. As a chef in our restaurant, you will be responsible for overseeing the preparation, cooking, and presentation of authentic Italian cuisine. Your culinary expertise and creativity will play a crucial role in delivering exceptional dining experiences to our guests. You will work closely with the restaurant management team to ensure high-quality dishes, maintain kitchen efficiency, and uphold the reputation for exquisite Italian flavors. The ideal candidate will possess all these qualities, will have culinary training in Italy, and possess a working knowledge of the Italian language.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Collaborate with the management team to create and update the restaurant's Italian menu;

• Research and introduce new dishes that align with the restaurant's culinary concept and              showcase the best of Italian cuisine;

• Ensure menu offerings are balanced, diverse, and cater to different dietary preferences;

• Prepare and cook a variety of Italian dishes, including pasta, pizza, risotto, antipasti, meat, and seafood dishes, following traditional recipes and techniques;

• Oversee the proper handling, storage, and preparation of all ingredients to maintain freshness and quality;

• Strive for consistency in taste, texture, and presentation across all dishes;

• Supervise and train kitchen staff to ensure efficient operations and adherence to food safety and sanitation standards;

• Maintain a clean and organized kitchen workspace, promoting a safe and hygienic environment for all team members;

• Monitor inventory levels and work with the management team to order supplies and ingredients as needed;

• Regularly taste and evaluate dishes to maintain high standards of flavor, appearance, and portion size;

• Encourage feedback from guests and colleagues to continuously improve and refine recipes;

• Assist in planning and executing special events, private parties, and catering functions with an Italian-themed menu;

• Ensure that the quality and presentation of dishes are maintained even during high-volume events;

• Work closely with the management team to control food costs while maintaining quality;

• Minimize food wastage and effectively utilize ingredients to improve profitability;

• Proven experience as a Chef, with a focus on Italian Cuisine, preferably trained in Italy;

• In-depth knowledge of Italian culinary traditions, cooking techniques, and ingredients;

• Strong leadership and communication skills to lead and train kitchen staff effectively, a working knowledge of Italian helpful.

• Ability to multitask, work under pressure, and maintain attention to detail;

• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations;

• Creative mindset to introduce innovative dishes while respecting traditional Italian flavors;

• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as per the restaurant's operational hours.