Chef

Job Description

Chef – Tyler x Lieu Dit

Santa Barbara, CA

Tyler x Lieu Dit is looking for a Chef to lead our culinary program at our wine bar and tasting room in downtown Santa Barbara. This role blends hands-on cooking and kitchen leadership, making it ideal for a chef who thrives in both execution and operations. If you have a passion for creating simple yet thoughtful dishes that complement great wines—and the skills to run a smooth, efficient kitchen—we’d love to meet you.

About Us

Tyler x Lieu Dit is a wine bar and tasting room showcasing two distinct yet complementary wine labels: Tyler, focused on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from the Sta. Rita Hills, and Lieu Dit, highlighting Loire Valley varieties grown on California’s Central Coast. Our culinary program is built to elevate the wine experience through a rotating menu of seasonal dishes and daily specials, guided by a commitment to simplicity, intentionality, and a “less is more” philosophy.

The Role

As Chef, you’ll lead both the culinary execution and kitchen operations at our wine bar. This hands-on role involves cooking on the line, ensuring consistency and quality, and managing key back-of-house functions such as ordering, prep, inventory, and compliance. It’s a position that calls for precision, creativity, and strong organizational skills.

Key Responsibilities

Hands-On Service – Serve as the primary cook during service, executing dishes from our wine bar menu and daily specials with precision and consistency.

Menu Execution & Development – Uphold our culinary vision while contributing seasonal specials and new ideas that align with our brand.

Kitchen Operations – Manage ordering, inventory, prep, and overall kitchen organization to ensure efficient daily operations.

Team Leadership & Training – Lead and support kitchen staff, maintaining high standards for execution, cleanliness, and professionalism.

Food Safety & Compliance – Ensure strict adherence to all health and safety regulations and maintain a clean, compliant kitchen environment.

Cross-Department Collaboration – Partner with the Director of Hospitality and front-of-house team on guest experience, event planning, and initiatives that drive business.

Estate Program Development - Assist with the development of a small culinary program at our Mae Estate, focused on elevated, private wine experiences and special events at the estate.

Who We’re Looking For

A skilled chef with strong line experience, who enjoys being in the kitchen during service.

Someone who thrives in both execution and management, balancing cooking with operational duties.

A detail-oriented leader, capable of running an efficient, organized kitchen.

A team player who enjoys collaborating with front-of-house staff to create an exceptional guest experience.

Someone with a passion for food and wine, and an understanding of how they interactt.

Preferred Experience & Skills

Minimum 2+ years of kitchen management or lead cook experience in a restaurant, wine bar, or similar setting.

Strong cooking skills, with experience working the line in a fast-paced environment.

Knowledge of food safety, ordering, inventory management, and kitchen organization.

Ability to manage prep work, maintain consistency, and ensure smooth service.

Experience working with seasonal ingredients and simple, wine-friendly cuisine.

Comfortable working evenings and weekends, based on service needs.

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive salary (based on experience)

Bonus or commission on private events

Employer-sponsored health insurance

401K Retirement Plan

Paid time off

Dining & Wine perks

Join Us

This is a unique opportunity to lead a thoughtful, evolving culinary program at one of Santa Barbara’s premier wine destinations. We’re looking for a chef with a strong foundation in California cuisine, rooted in European wine bar traditions, and the leadership skills to run an efficient, inspired kitchen. If that sounds like you, we’d love to connect.

To apply, send your resume and a brief note about your experience and interest in the role.

Full-time