Kitchen Manager
About the job
- Ability to listen effectively and give and take direction.
- Ability to work under pressure while meeting tight deadlines.
- Comfort using computers and the functions expected of a manager.
- Good communication, organizational, and time-management skills.
- Ability to recognize problems and solve them.
- Ability to work effectively in a diverse workforce.
- Ability to set goals and convert plans into action.
- Ability to safely operate commercial equipment.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule.
- Reliable transportation.
- Maintain a constant state of alertness and work safely.
- Ability to bend and reach overhead often while working in tight spaces.
- Dexterity to use and work equipment.
- Ability to walk primarily on a level surface throughout the workday.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly using proper lifting techniques.
- Run the kitchen daily and deliver consistent execution for guests and the team.
- Handle all kitchen and shift responsibilities, including opening or closing.
- Manage daily team deployment and routines.
- Create and maintain the kitchen prep schedule and lists, including prep and pull tasks.
- Taste food at least twice per shift to assess quality and flavor.
- Execute food recipes consistently.
- Maintain the timing, quality, and freshness of drinks.
- Maintain food and team safety and security.
- Interview, hire, and onboard team members.
- Train team members initially, cross-train them, and train them for new positions.
- Develop team members and follow up on their development.
- Conduct one-on-one evaluations and communicate with team members.
- Create and manage the team's daily plan and development.
- Communicate daily and ensure successful shift handoffs.
- Hold restaurant team meetings.
- Create an energetic atmosphere and positive team environment.
- Train and mentor the Kitchen Supervisor.
- Continuously teach, train, and coach the team.
- Manage food accountability, ordering, waste, yields, par levels, and variances.
- Ensure proper receiving, organization, and rotation of food.
- Maintain inventory accountability and monitor daily and end-of-period food costs.
- Care for and maintain equipment and tools.
- Manage guest service and feedback.
- Review third-party inspection results and implement action plans.
- Maintain health, safety, and quality assurance across restaurant operations.
- May work overtime during peak business hours, when short-staffed, or during new restaurant openings.
About the company
Illegal Pete's operates as a fast-casual restaurant chain in Colorado and Arizona, serving Mission-style burritos, bowls, tacos, salads, nachos, and queso, with a full bar and local craft beers. Its food is prepared with responsibly sourced, high-quality ingredients and is served in a counter-service format, with locations designed to foster a social, neighborhood atmosphere including live music, comedy shows, and other events. What sets Illegal Pete's apart is its community focus: it partners with local arts through initiatives like the Starving Artists program that offers free meals to touring musicians, runs a record label, and uses historic buildings for its stores while keeping full control without franchising. Employee welfare is emphasized through a living wage, health benefits, and a 401K. The company aims to be a local gathering place that blends good food, live arts, and community connection while growing in a manageable, community-centered way.
Company Size
51-200
Company Stage
N/A
Total Funding
N/A
Headquarters
Denver, Colorado
Founded
1995
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Simplify's Take
What believers are saying
- Illegal Pete's added Taco Night in January 2025, its first menu change in 15 years.
- By April 2026, the chain listed 14 locations, including Wheat Ridge and Boulder expansion.
- Loyalty app V.I. Pete's and full bars support repeat visits and higher check sizes.
What critics are saying
- The name still fuels boycott pressure; UA activists targeted Tucson in 2024.
- Colorado Springs opened April 2024 after two-year delays, exposing execution fragility.
- Limited scale outside Colorado leaves Arizona dependence and weak bargaining power versus Chipotle.
What makes Illegal Pete's unique
- Pete Turner kept family-owned control since 1995, avoiding franchise dilution.
- Illegal Pete's pairs Mission-style burritos with full bars and live-music events.
- Historic building reuse and neighborhood programming create a locally rooted brand identity.
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Benefits
- Health Insurance
- 401(k) Retirement Plan
- Paid Time Off
- Paid Sick Leave
- Remote Work Options
- Hybrid Work Options
- Stock Options
- Company Equity
- Wellness Program
- Mental Health Support
- Gym Membership
- Phone/Internet Stipend