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Menu Development Jobs in Irvine, CA (NOW HIRING)

Lead Cook

Laguna Beach, CA · On-site

$22/hr

Creative input on specials and menu development * Supportive and team-focused work environment * Hands-on involvement in building kitchen systems and culture * Performance-based growth opportunities ...

Corporate Chef

Riverside, CA · On-site

$140K/yr

Reporting to executive leadership, the Corporate Chef will play a key role in menu development, culinary consistency, operational performance, and future company growth. The position is based out of ...

Executive Chef - EC

Laguna Beach, CA · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

Extensive knowledge of menu development, insight into marketing, cost and wage control. * Thorough knowledge of food products, standard recipes and proper preparation. * Ability to analyze, forecast ...

Multi-Unit Manager

Orange, CA · On-site

$73K - $74K/yr

... Menu Development • Curate and maintain an extensive beverage menu, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. • Stay updated with industry trends, introducing new and innovative drinks to the ...

Chef - Dim Sum

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Work closely with the Executive Chef and dim sum production team to support menu development and new product launches * Assist with the development of new dumpling formats for retail, delivery, and ...

Executive Chef

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$74K - $103K/yr

Culinary Leadership & Menu Development * Develop innovative, seasonally inspired menus that align with the restaurant concept and guest expectations. * Ensure consistency, quality, presentation, and ...

Assuming responsibility for budget development and compliance, sanitation, safety, regulatory compliance, menu development, and preparation and service of food. * Supervising staff and facilitating ...

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Chef.

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Demonstrated experience in catering services and custom menu development * Proficiency in preparing a wide range of cuisines and accommodating special dietary needs, including but not limited to:

Senior Sous Chef

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$73K - $92K/yr

The Senior Sous Chef oversees the on-site culinary staff for events, supports menu development, and ensures the successful execution of large-scale banquet and catering functions. This position ...

Chef

Costa Mesa, CA

$25 - $27/hr

Demonstrated experience in catering services and custom menu development * Proficiency in preparing a wide range of cuisines and accommodating special dietary needs, including but not limited to:

Chef

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Demonstrated experience in catering services and custom menu development * Proficiency in preparing a wide range of cuisines and accommodating special dietary needs, including but not limited to:

Chef

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Demonstrated experience in catering services and custom menu development * Proficiency in preparing a wide range of cuisines and accommodating special dietary needs, including but not limited to:

Senior Sous Chef

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$73K - $92K/yr

The Senior Sous Chef oversees the on-site culinary staff for events, supports menu development, and ensures the successful execution of large-scale banquet and catering functions. This position ...

Showing results 21-40

Menu Development information

See Irvine, CA salary details

$53.7K

$115.6K

$186.2K

How much do menu development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for menu development in Irvine, CA is $115,601.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,500.00 and $130,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is menu development?

A Menu Development job involves creating, testing, and refining food and beverage menus for restaurants, cafes, or catering businesses. Professionals in this role research food trends, balance flavors, and ensure profitability while maintaining brand identity. They collaborate with chefs, suppliers, and marketing teams to design appealing and cost-effective menu items. Additionally, they may consider dietary restrictions, sustainability, and customer preferences to enhance the dining experience.

What does someone in menu development do?

In a Menu Development role, daily tasks often include researching food trends, developing and testing new recipes, analyzing menu performance data, and collaborating with chefs, nutritionists, and procurement teams. Menu developers may also be responsible for adjusting existing menus to optimize profitability and catering to customer preferences while ensuring quality and consistency. Regular meetings and tastings are part of the job, as is working closely with marketing teams to create visually appealing menu descriptions. This collaborative environment allows you to have a direct impact on both culinary creativity and the business success of the organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in menu development?

Excelling in Menu Development requires a strong understanding of culinary trends, nutrition, recipe costing, and food safety, often backed by experience in culinary arts or hospitality management. Familiarity with menu engineering software, inventory systems, and culinary certifications such as ServSafe are commonly beneficial. Creativity, collaboration, and attention to detail help professionals design attractive and cost-effective menus that align with brand standards. These skills ensure menus are innovative, profitable, and meet customer and operational needs.

What are popular job titles related to Menu Development jobs in Irvine, CA? For Menu Development jobs in Irvine, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Menu Development jobs in Irvine, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Menu Development jobs in Irvine, CA are:
What cities near Irvine, CA are hiring for Menu Development jobs? Cities near Irvine, CA with the most Menu Development job openings:
Infographic showing various Menu Development job openings in Irvine, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,601 per year, or $55.6 per hour.

Lead Cook

YUZU LAGUNA LLC

Laguna Beach, CA • On-site

$22/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k) matching
  • Employee discounts
  • Flexible schedule

We’re building something delicious —
We’re looking for a Lead Cook for our sushi restaurant hot kitchen.
This position is for someone who takes pride in leading a kitchen team, maintaining quality under pressure, and helping create a strong kitchen culture. We want someone reliable, creative, and motivated to grow with the restaurant long-term.
If you enjoy working in a fast-paced environment, care about consistency and presentation, and like contributing ideas for new dishes and specials, we’d love to meet you.
— LEAD COOK / HOT KITCHEN —
What we’re looking for:
• Experience in a professional kitchen (Japanese or sushi restaurant experience preferred)
• Ability to lead and support the kitchen team during busy service
• Strong understanding of kitchen organization, prep, cleanliness, and food safety
• Reliable, responsible, and able to work efficiently under pressure
• Positive attitude and strong communication with both kitchen and front-of-house staff
• Creative mindset with interest in seasonal specials, new dishes, and improving the guest experience
• Someone who wants to grow with the restaurant and contribute beyond daily kitchen duties
What we offer:
• Competitive pay based on experience
• Opportunity for growth and leadership within the restaurant
• Creative input on specials and menu development
• Supportive and team-focused work environment
• Hands-on involvement in building kitchen systems and culture
• Performance-based growth opportunities
We’re looking for someone who cares about food, teamwork, and creating a great experience for every guest.
If you’re passionate about hospitality and want to be part of a growing sushi restaurant, we’d love to hear from you.