Sous Chef

The Sous Chef role is an opportunity to contribute to one of New York’s most distinctive dining environments, where French gastronomy meets the craftsmanship and artistry of Roman and Williams. At La Mercerie, the kitchen is not separate from the dining room or the adjacent Guild, it is part of a complete ecosystem where cuisine, design, and retail intersect. The Sous Chef will play a vital role in bridging tradition and innovation, supporting the Executive Chef and Executive Sous Chef in leading the brigade, and ensuring that every dish served reflects the soul of La Mercerie: refined, elegant, and deeply connected to the larger cultural experience.

As Sous Chef, you will oversee the daily operations of the kitchen in collaboration with senior culinary leadership, while serving as an inspiring presence for the back-of-house team. You will balance discipline with creativity, ensuring each plate is executed with precision, every station is organized and safe, and the culinary team is motivated to uphold the traditions of French cuisine while embracing innovation. This role requires strong leadership on the floor, cross-functional collaboration with retail and hospitality teams, and a passion for elevating both craft and guest experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise daily food preparation, cooking, and plating, ensuring every dish reflects French culinary traditions with precision and artistry.
• Lead, train, and support the brigade to maintain consistency, efficiency, and discipline across all kitchen stations.
• Maintain the highest standards of organization, cleanliness, and food safety in the kitchen.
• Collaborate with the Executive Chef and Executive Sous Chef on seasonal menu development, specials, and signature dishes.
• Work in partnership with the retail and Guild teams to align menu offerings with the larger Roman and Williams vision.
• Oversee inventory, ordering, and product quality, assisting in managing food costs while preserving excellence and sustainability.
• Step into leadership responsibilities in the absence of senior chefs, ensuring continuity of operations and culture.
• Contribute to an environment where culinary tradition, craftsmanship, and innovation exist side by side.

Preferred Qualifications

• Culinary degree or equivalent professional training.
• At least 3 years of culinary experience, with 1 or more in fine dining French cuisine.
• Solid foundation in classic French techniques and seasonal, high-quality ingredients.
• Versatility across kitchen stations, with the ability to adapt quickly to the pace of service.
• Strong leadership and communication skills with a collaborative, disciplined approach to team development.
• ServSafe or HACCP certification preferred.
• A passion for French gastronomy, design, and the blending of culinary and cultural expression.

Apply to Restaurant Associates today!

Restaurant Associates is a member of Compass Group USA

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Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer. At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.

Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity. We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history (including relevant driving history), in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York Fair Chance Act.

Associates at Restaurant Associates are offered many fantastic benefits.

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Life Insurance/ AD
• Disability Insurance
• Retirement Plan
• Paid Time Off
• Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
• Associate Shopping Program
• Health and Wellness Programs
• Discount Marketplace
• Identity Theft Protection
• Pet Insurance
• Commuter Benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
• Paid Parental Leave
• Personal Leave

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Restaurant Associates maintains a drug-free workplace.

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information.

Req ID: 1491348

Restaurant Associates

Michael Abbey

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