Head Chef

Job title: Head chef

Location: Castello di Ristonchi - Tuscany

Job type: Full time

About us: Nestled in the Tuscany hills, our castle hosts stunning destination weddings, providing a unique, high quality experience to guests from around the world. We focus on creating a warm, memorable experience through cuisine that reflects the Italian countryside’s rich flavors and traditions.

Are you ready to be part of something truly special? At our castle in the mountains, we combine exceptional hospitality with a focus on mindfulness and personal growth. We believe that creating unforgettable experiences for our guests starts with a team that feels supported, inspired, and connected.

Our staff practices mindfulness and teamwork, helping us deliver magical three-day weddings featuring breakfasts, pizza nights, BBQs, three-course dinners, and pasta nights. As a member of our team, you’ll contribute to this magic while growing both personally and professionally.

Position overview: We are seeking a talented, organized and passionate head chef to lead our kitchen team. As our head chef, you will be responsible for managing all aspects of the kitchen. From menu planning and preparation to service, with an emphasis on using fresh, self-grown ingredients from our grounds, you will ensure each dish reflects the authentic flavors of Tuscany. Each week follows a structured schedule with two weddings, and consistency is key in maintaining our high standards.

Key responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain a seasonal menu.
• Oversee and manage all kitchen operations, including ordering, inventory and leading your team.
• Prioritize the use of self-grown ingredients and local produce to create authentic, fresh flavors.
• Teach guests how to make pizza and pasta, creating an engaging culinary experience.
• Develop and manage a cohesive kitchen team, fostering a positive and supportive work environment.
• Ensure timely preparation, high quality and precise plating for each event.
• Collaborate with the event planner to ensure smooth service and that everything aligns with the wedding and guest expectations.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization adhering to all health and safety regulations.
• Uphold the castle’s policies and values, setting a standard of professionalism and dedication.
• Uphold the castle’s standards for quality and guest satisfaction, continuously improving where possible.
• Serve as a positive role model to your team, fostering a supportive and respectful work environment.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience as a head chef or executive chef, preferably in events, weddings, or high volume settings.
• Strong organizational skills with a demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and meet tight deadlines.
• Skilled in time management, with the ability to coordinate meal service seamlessly.
• Extensive experience in food preparation, plating, and maintaining high standards of food quality and presentation.
• Skilled at training, developing and leading kitchen staff, with a focus on building strong culinary skills within your team.
• Knowledge of kitchen operations and the ability to manage and inspire a kitchen team under time sensitive conditions.
• Fluent in Italian and English are preferred.

What makes this job unique?

• The opportunity to work in one of Italy’s most beautiful regions.
• Freedom to manage and operate the kitchen, leading a team with your own style and approach.
• Be part of a dedicated team creating memorable experiences in a unique setting.
• Mindfulness Practices: All staff participate in twice-yearly workshops focusing on mindfulness, communication, and personal growth.
• Variety in Work: From casual pizza nights to 3 course dinners, and you’ll gain experience in all aspects of event service.
• An International Team: Work alongside people from all over the world, building connections and learning from diverse perspectives.
• A No-Alcohol Policy for Staff: We foster an alcohol-free environment for our team while serving guests responsibly.

Ready to join us?

If you are passionate about culinary excellence, love working with fresh, local ingredients, and want to be a part of a unique and inspiring team, we would love to hear from you.

Please send your CV, a brief cover letter explaining why you are the perfect fit for this role to

Apply now to begin your adventure in Tuscany

Job Type: Full-time

Work Location: In person