Executive Chef – Bistro Du Jour Capitol Hill (Royal Sonesta Hotel)
KNEAD Hospitality + Design
KNEAD Hospitality + Design is seeking a talented and inspiring Executive Chef to lead the culinary operations of Bistro Du Jour Capitol Hill, located at The Royal Sonesta Washington, DC Capitol Hill.
As Executive Chef, you will oversee all back-of-house operations for our French-inspired bistro and hotel Banquets and Catering — driving consistency, creativity, and excellence in every guest experience. Reporting directly to the General Manager, you’ll lead a passionate team dedicated to quality, craft, and genuine hospitality. This role also collaborates on hotel-wide culinary activations, private dining events, and cross-department initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
Lead all culinary operations for Bistro Du Jour Capitol Hill, Banquets and Catering, ensuring quality, consistency, and adherence to both KNEAD and Royal Sonesta brand standards.
Partner with the restaurant’s General Manager to deliver an elevated, service-driven dining experience across all dayparts.
Collaborate with KNEAD’s corporate culinary team on menu development, seasonal updates, and property-level programming.
Manage daily BOH operations, including scheduling, purchasing, inventory control, and cost management.
Recruit, train, and mentor culinary staff, fostering a culture of professionalism, accountability, and growth.
Ensure full compliance with health, safety, sanitation, and local regulatory standards.
Maintain strong communication with hotel departments (F&B, purchasing, engineering, finance) to support seamless operations and guest satisfaction.
Participate in financial planning, forecasting, and budgeting to achieve restaurant and company goals.
Support special events, VIP activations, and marketing initiatives as needed.
Qualifications
Minimum 5 years of progressive culinary experience, including 2+ years in a senior leadership role (Executive Sous Chef, Chef de Cuisine, or Executive Chef).
Proven background in French cuisine or brasserie-style dining.
Experience in a hotel or luxury restaurant environment strongly preferred. Including but not limited to Banquets and Catering, In Room Dining and Amenity Programming.
Demonstrated success in cost management, team development, and operational excellence.
Strong organizational, communication, and multitasking skills in a fast-paced, guest-focused setting.
Culinary degree or equivalent professional certification preferred.
Familiarity with hotel F&B systems, procurement, and service standards a plus.
Compensation & Benefits
Competitive base salary commensurate with experience
Performance-based bonus up to 20% of annual salary
Lifestyle benefit allowance for dining, wellness, or childcare
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
Dining privileges across all KNEAD Hospitality + Design restaurants
Professional development and continuing education opportunities
About KNEAD Hospitality + Design
Founded by hospitality professionals Jason Berry and Michael Reginbogin, KNEAD Hospitality + Design operates some of the region’s most celebrated restaurants, combining design-forward spaces with thoughtful, ingredient-driven cuisine. Bistro Du Jour reflects our modern take on the French café — approachable yet elegant, balancing timeless technique with contemporary flavor.
If you’re a passionate culinary leader ready to bring creativity, consistency, and hospitality to every plate, we invite you to join our growing team at Bistro Du Jour Capitol Hill at The Royal Sonesta Washington, DC Capitol Hill.
Apply now at: www.kneadhd.com | @kneadhd
Job Type: Full-time
Salary: Competitive
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