Executive Chef at Del Pez Mexican Gastropub Wilmington

Company: Hakuna Hospitality Group
Concept: Modern Mexican Gastropub with craft cocktails and bold flavors

Del Pez is not your average Mexican restaurant — it’s a celebration of tacos, tequila, and togetherness.
Del Pez blends Latin flair with creative cuisine and a vibrant social vibe. Our space hums with energy, our cocktails tell stories, and our kitchen is where flavor takes center stage.

We’re part of Hakuna Hospitality Group, a growing restaurant family. We believe food should connect, inspire, and make people feel alive.

We’re searching for a dynamic Executive Chef to lead our culinary vision at Del Pez. This is more than a kitchen position — it’s a chance to shape a culture of passion, precision, and creativity.

You’ll oversee all back-of-house operations, mentor an ambitious culinary team, and craft menus that excite our guests while keeping operations sharp and efficient.

• Lead, train, and inspire the kitchen team to deliver exceptional food and consistency.

• Develop menus that celebrate modern Mexican flavors with local influences.

• Oversee ordering, inventory, and vendor relationships to manage food costs and quality.

• Maintain the highest standards for sanitation, organization, and safety.

• Collaborate with ownership and management on menu development and seasonal features.

• Uphold a kitchen culture built on teamwork, respect, and pride.

• 5+ years of experience as an Executive or Senior Sous Chef in a full-service, high-volume restaurant.

• Strong leadership and communication skills.

• Passionate about bold flavors, plating, and guest experience.

• Business-minded — you understand cost control, labor management, and operational excellence.

• Creative, adaptable, and driven by hospitality.

• Competitive salary + performance bonus potential

• Access to 401k plan

• Access to Health insurance, dental, vision, short term disability and paid time off

• Opportunities for growth across Hakuna Hospitality concepts

• Supportive leadership that encourages creativity and autonomy

• A culture that celebrates teamwork, innovation, and fun

If you’re ready to bring your fire to the line and help lead Delaware’s most exciting gastropub, we’d love to meet you.