Job Description

Chef Chicago, IL

Description

Fifth Third Arena | Chicago, IL

For nearly 30 years,   One Off Hospitality   has defined what it means to eat and drink well in Chicago. From beloved neighborhood spots to nationally acclaimed destinations, we’ve built a family of restaurants that embody creativity, warmth, and genuine hospitality.

Now, we’re bringing that same spirit to   Fifth Third Arena  — home of the   Chicago Blackhawks   and one of the city’s most dynamic sports facilities. One Off Hospitality is proud to operate two exciting concepts within the arena:

• Rocky’s Bar  – a tribute to the late Chairman   Rocky Wirtz , and a fan-favorite from the United Center, anchoring the arena’s dining experience with elevated cocktails, curated food offerings, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that celebrates a life well lived.
• Raise the Cup Café  – an all-day destination serving   coffee and premium bites   designed to fuel athletes, fans, and everyone in between.

We’re looking for a   Chef   to lead the culinary program for both spaces — a hands-on, creative leader who thrives in the energy of the kitchen and the community it serves. If you’re passionate about food, driven by excellence, and ready to shape something new within a legacy environment, we want to meet you.

Reports To:   Head of Culinary Operations
Type:   Salary / Full-time
FLSA:   Exempt

The   Chef   oversees all culinary operations for One Off Hospitality’s concepts at Fifth Third Arena — setting the tone for creativity, consistency, and collaboration. This role blends strategic leadership with hands-on execution, ensuring menus shine, teams grow, and every plate reflects the excellence that defines One Off Hospitality.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Lead all culinary operations across   Rocky’s Bar   and   Raise the Cup Café   with creativity, consistency, and attention to detail
• Develop and maintain innovative, approachable menus that align with One Off Hospitality’s brand and seasonal offerings
• Oversee food and labor budgets, cost controls, inventory, and ordering processes to meet financial objectives
• Ensure all kitchen operations, including prep, line execution, sanitation, and food safety, meet One Off Hospitality and Chicago Department of Health standards
• Collaborate with the General Manager and leadership team to align service, hospitality, and culinary excellence across both venues
• Train, mentor, and lead the back-of-house team, fostering a culture of respect, accountability, and continuous improvement
• Partner with purveyors to source the best ingredients, maintain consistent quality, and negotiate pricing to achieve optimal food cost management
• Drive menu development for special events, catering, and seasonal promotions within the facility
• Uphold all food safety and sanitation standards with pride and precision
• Bring creativity, passion, and leadership to every service

Minimum (Education, Experience, Skills) Qualifications

• Culinary degree or equivalent hands-on experience
• 5+ years of kitchen management experience in a fast-paced, hospitality-driven environment
• Strong background in cost control, menu development, and kitchen operations
• SERV Safe Manager and Allergens Certification required
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• A collaborative spirit and love for mentoring others
• Ability to thrive in high-energy, guest-centered spaces like Fifth Third Arena
• Familiarity with Chicago Health Department regulations and best practices

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Ability to work flexible hours including nights, weekends, and event days as business dictates
• Ability to stand for extended periods (8–10 hours) and lift up to 50 lbs
• Must be comfortable working in fast-paced, dynamic environments
• Exposure to common kitchen allergens including dairy, gluten, nuts, and shellfish

Who We Are:

For almost 30 years,   One Off Hospitality   has developed and operated some of Chicago’s most beloved places to eat and drink. More importantly, we’re a group of people – chefs, hospitality veterans, managers and creators – who believe in the power of treating our guests like family and our restaurants like home. 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

One Off Hospitality provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Join us in leading the next chapter of hospitality excellence at Fifth Third Arena — where every service moment reflects the passion, pride, and spirit of Chicago hockey.

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