Elmer D. Torres
Huntington Beach
Summary
Executive Chef focused on building high performing kitchens through strong leadership, disciplined cost control, and efficient systems. Experienced in opening and scaling high-volume restaurants while maintaining quality, consistency, and profitability.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Executive Sous Chef
Ospi Costa Mesa - Momento Mori Hospitality
Costa Mesa
09.2024 - Current
- Supported opening of Costa Mesa location (Dec 2024), including kitchen systems, staffing, and operational setup.
- Helped lead a high-volume operation generating $8.2M+ in annual revenue, including $6M in food sales.
- Maintained ~20% food cost through purchasing strategy and vendor negotiations.
- Managed BOH labor at ~10%, optimizing scheduling and staffing efficiency.
- Owned ordering and vendor relationships, ensuring product consistency.
- Developed and implemented in-house pars and prep systems to support high-volume service.
Executive Chef
TheHouse
Newport Beach
02.2022 - 05.2024
- Led kitchen operations, focusing on menu development and execution to enhance culinary offerings and team efficiency.
- Created and executed seasonal menus, driving consistency, quality, and guest satisfaction.
- Managed vendor relationships and negotiations to secure high-quality products at competitive prices, optimizing supply chain.
- Built cohesive kitchen team, enhancing accountability and retention through effective leadership and development initiatives.
Kitchen Manager
Belcampo
West Hollywood
11.2018 - 10.2021
- Managed daily kitchen operations, ensuring adherence to quality control and execution standards to deliver consistent dining experiences.
- Oversaw inventory and ordering processes, maintaining optimal stock levels to minimize waste and support uninterrupted kitchen service.
- Developed prep systems and cleaning schedules, enhancing operational efficiency and maintaining a clean kitchen environment.
Prep Cook
Olios Wood Fire Pizzeria
West Hollywood
08.2015 - 02.2017
- Executed tasks at prep, dough, and salad stations in high-volume kitchen to support efficient meal preparation.
Skills
- Menu Development & Culinary Innovation
- Cost Control
- Labor Optimization
- Inventory management
- Vendor Negotiation
- Kitchen Systems & Operational Efficiency
- Team Leadership
- Food safety & Health Compliance
Timeline
Executive Sous Chef
Ospi Costa Mesa - Momento Mori Hospitality
09.2024 - Current
Executive Chef
TheHouse
02.2022 - 05.2024
Kitchen Manager
Belcampo
11.2018 - 10.2021
Prep Cook
Olios Wood Fire Pizzeria
08.2015 - 02.2017