Banquet Chef

Salamander Employer DC, LLC•Washington, DC

About The Position

The Banquet Chef at Salamander Hotels & Resorts is responsible for leading the planning, preparation, and execution of all banquet and special event culinary operations in accordance with the brand’s luxury standards, Forbes/Five-Star service culture, and commitment to exceptional guest experiences. This role ensures uncompromising quality, consistency, and presentation while managing high-volume production, union staffing requirements, and complex event timelines. Working collaboratively with the Executive Chef, Events, Sales, and Operations teams, the Banquet Chef delivers refined, memorable culinary experiences for weddings, galas, conferences, VIP functions, and signature Salamander events.

Requirements

Minimum 5–7 years of progressive culinary experience.
At least 2 years in banquet or high-volume luxury hotel operations.
Proven success leading large culinary teams.
Strong foundation in classical and contemporary techniques.
ServSafe or equivalent certification.
Exceptional leadership, organizational, and communication skills.

Nice To Haves

Culinary degree or formal apprenticeship.
Experience in unionized luxury hotel environments.
Experience in Forbes Five-Star or AAA Five-Diamond properties.
Background in Michelin-influenced or chef-driven operations.
Multicultural and international cuisine experience.

Responsibilities

Lead all banquet culinary operations in alignment with Salamander’s brand standards and service philosophy.
Plan, prepare, and execute menus for weddings, galas, conferences, VIP dinners, and large-scale functions.
Oversee high-volume food production while maintaining fine-dining quality and luxury presentation.
Ensure consistency in flavor, portioning, and visual excellence across all events.
Supervise kitchen setup, service execution, and post-event breakdown.
Collaborate with the Executive Chef on seasonal, market-driven, and customizable banquet menus.
Incorporate local sourcing, sustainability, and premium ingredients where possible.
Participate in client tastings, site visits, and culinary presentations.
Design specialty menus for VIP, dietary, cultural, and themed events.
Ensure menus reflect Salamander’s refined, modern American luxury identity.
Recruit, train, coach, and evaluate banquet culinary staff.
Build a culture of professionalism, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Develop standardized recipes, prep guides, and operating procedures.
Lead by example in appearance, conduct, and craftsmanship.
Enforce all HACCP, food safety, sanitation, and health department regulations.
Conduct daily tastings, line checks, and kitchen inspections.
Maintain an inspection-ready kitchen environment at all times.
Ensure proper storage, labeling, and product rotation procedures.
Manage food purchasing, inventory, and storage systems.
Control food cost, waste, and overproduction.
Monitor labor efficiency and productivity.
Implement systems to improve operational efficiency and profitability.
Attend BEO meetings and pre-event planning sessions.
Review event specifications, timelines, and special requests.
Coordinate plating schedules and service flow with Banquet Operations and FOH.
Lead pre-event briefings and post-event evaluations.
Adapt quickly to last-minute changes while maintaining service excellence.
Source premium and specialty products through approved vendors.
Maintain strong supplier relationships.
Verify product quality, pricing, and delivery standards.
Adhere strictly to the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), where applicable.
Supervise union culinary staff in compliance with contract requirements.
Ensure proper staffing levels, job assignments, breaks, and overtime procedures.
Maintain accurate timekeeping and labor records.
Work collaboratively with union leadership and hotel management.
Demonstrate fairness, professionalism, and consistency in all labor matters.
Serve as a culinary ambassador for Salamander Hotels & Resorts.
Interact professionally with clients, event planners, and VIP guests.
Personally oversee high-profile and signature events.
Address guest feedback and special requests with discretion and care.
Uphold Salamander’s reputation for personalized, intuitive luxury service.