Job Description
We are seeking a talented and driven Sous Chef / Kitchen Manager to help build, launch, and run the culinary program of a highly anticipated new concept opening in Ridgewood, Queens, one of New York City’s most exciting and rapidly emerging neighborhoods for food, culture, and creative energy.
Brought to you by the owners Pierogi Boys in Brooklyn, this new venture is a multi-faceted concept that includes a 45-seat sit-down restaurant with a full bar and private dining room, and a high-end specialty grocer and prepared foods deli counter. It is a formal and expansive evolution of the original Pierogi Boys—preserving its casual nature and honest cooking while offering a more elevated and refined dining experience, complete with a coffee, pastry and cocktail program.
What You’ll Do:
You will play a central role in building out our 1,500 sq ft kitchen from the ground up, establishing systems, hiring and training a team, and executing a menu that is both rooted in Polish tradition and open to innovation.
• Lead daily back-of-house operations, ensuring excellence in food quality, consistency, and presentation.
• Execute and expand on our already outlined Polish menu for the restaurant—showcasing a wide range of dishes beyond pierogi—and introduce creative seasonal offerings.
• Help create and execute a seasonal prepared foods program and sandwich menu for the cheese and charcuterie deli part of the grocery store, which will not be focused on Polish cuisine.
• Manage all kitchen logistics, including inventory, purchasing, food costing, vendor relations, scheduling, and labor management.
• Develop menus and collaborate with ownership on evolving our offerings across the restaurant, deli counter, and retail prepared foods section.
• Maintain the highest standards of cleanliness, food safety, and regulatory compliance.
• Work closely with FOH, ownership, and bar/coffee teams to deliver a cohesive, original guest experience.
• Participate in special events, media opportunities, and community or charity partnerships as needed.
Who You Are:
• A dedicated professional with at least 3 years of experience in a professional kitchen, with leadership or management responsibilities.
• Calm under pressure, with no ego or drama, and a deep commitment to maintaining a respectful, professional work environment.
• Passionate about food, especially with an appreciation and curiosity for Polish cuisine, and excited to bring creativity across other cuisines.
• Experienced in kitchen operations including P&L management, labor control, food costing, vendor relations, and quality assurance.
• Adept at working with seasonal ingredients and building thoughtful, dynamic menus.
• A natural leader and team player who can motivate and support staff while collaborating effectively with owners and other departments.
• Exceptionally organized, detail-oriented, and able to prioritize and manage time effectively in a fast-paced environment.
Key Qualifications:
• Minimum 3 years of professional kitchen experience (management experience strongly preferred)
• Experience with Polish or Eastern European cuisine is a strong plus though not required
• Proven ability to create and manage staff schedules, manage food and labor costs, and oversee kitchen finances
• Strong knowledge of cooking techniques, kitchen equipment, and food safety protocols
• Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs occasionally, including large pots and bulk ingredient containers.
Why Join Us:
• Be a founding member of a highly anticipated new, large, multi-faceted concept
• Work in a dynamic, creative environment where your input truly shapes the future
• Operate in Ridgewood, Queens—a thriving neighborhood known for its eclectic mix of art, culture, and rapidly growing food scene
• Collaborate with passionate and supportive owners who value team culture and work-life balance
• Competitive salary with opportunities for growth and creative contribution
To apply, please submit your résumé and a brief cover letter detailing your experience and what excites you about this opportunity.
We can’t wait to build something special with you.
Job Tags
Holiday work, Full time, Casual work, Weekend work, Afternoon shift,