executive chef

noun

plural executive chefs

: the head chef of a professional kitchen or of a group of professional kitchens

the restaurant's executive chef and owner

His résumé was filled with Connecticut restaurants …; at Le Coq Hardi Restaurant in Stamford, he was, variously, … first cook, sous chef, and finally executive chef.

—Michael Ruhlman

Bala Kumanan, a French-trained chef, oversees the quality of the food … as the executive chef of the high-end restaurants that span from Vancouver to Ottawa.

—John French

compare chef de cuisine

Examples of executive chef in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Resort executive chef Stephan Holland came to Ocala two years ago with an impressive resume, having worked alongside household names like José Andrés and Nobu Matsuhisa. — Amy Drew Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 5 Aug. 2026

McGriddles were reportedly conceived in 1999, when Gerald Tomlinson, former executive chef for McDonald’s, decided the chain needed to augment its salty-savory McMuffin with a breakfast item that would attract customers seeking something sweet. — Laurie Ochoa, Los Angeles Times, 4 Aug. 2026

The Michelin-recommended, Forbes Five-Star restaurant is led by executive chef Steven Devereaux Greene and features tasting menus, a la carte selections, seasonal sushi and an award-winning wine program. — Evan Moore august 4, Charlotte Observer, 4 Aug. 2026

In his new role as executive chef at Strāta, Roberto Mendoza brings a full range of experiences into a concept that reflects both his growth as a chef and his connection to San Jose. — Laura Ness, Mercury News, 2 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1902, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for executive chef

• clef
• deaf
• ref