About Rootstalk: Rootstalk, the creation of Chef Matt Vawter, is a contemporary American cuisine restaurant nestled in the heart of Breckenridge, Colorado. Recently named a semifinalist for the prestigious James Beard Awards' Best Chef in the Mountain Region, Chef Matt brings a wealth of culinary expertise garnered during his fourteen-year tenure in Denver. From serving as the Chef de Cuisine at Fruition Restaurant to becoming the Executive Chef/Partner at Mercantile dining & provision, Chef Matt's culinary journey reflects his commitment to excellence.

Opened in October 2020, Rootstalk is a celebration of seasonal and technique-driven food. Privately owned and operated by Chef Matt, along with partners Chef Cameron Baker and Director of Hospitality Patrick Murphy, Rootstalk embodies a team of hospitality professionals dedicated to providing guests with a memorable dining experience. The team is deeply involved in daily operations, fostering mentorship, and creating a culture of growth for its members.

In April 2022, Chef Matt and his team expanded their culinary vision with Radicato, further solidifying their commitment to delivering exceptional food and genuine hospitality.

Job Overview: Rootstalk is seeking individuals who share their passion for delivering exceptional dining experiences, are dedicated to honing their culinary craft, and find joy in the process. The restaurant emphasizes a positive and professional work environment where team members can learn, grow, and achieve their personal goals in the restaurant industry. The ideal candidate will have 2-3 years of cooking experience in a high-level kitchen, a strong work ethic, positive attitude, and a desire to contribute to the culture of the restaurant family.

Job Requirements:

2-3 years of cooking experience in a high-level kitchen.
Uncompromising work ethic.
Positive and professional attitude.
Strong communication skills.
Attention to detail.
Ability to receive and implement feedback.
Punctuality.
Clean and organized work habits.
Ability to remain calm under pressure.
Passion for cooking and creating exceptional dishes.

Job Duties:

Maintain order, efficiency, discipline, and standards in assigned kitchen sections.
Execute within the systems of the restaurant to uphold cleanliness, sanitation, and organization.
Assist teammates during prep and service.
Foster a team-oriented work environment.

Why Rootstalk:

Paid Ski Pass.
Live in a mountain town and cook great food.
Health Insurance.
401K benefits with a match.
Dining discounts.
Opportunity to work with a dedicated and passionate team.
Potential housing opportunities.

Qualifications:

Culinary background and foundation.
Competence in basic cooking applications.
Detail-oriented and teamwork-focused.
Strong work ethic and commitment to excellence.
Growth mentality with goals for personal and business progression.

Compensation:

Structured hourly pay based on experience.
Back-of-House (BOH) service charge structure directly benefits the BOH team in addition to hourly pay.

If you are passionate about cooking, dedicated to personal and professional growth, and excited about joining a team committed to culinary excellence, we invite you to apply. Rootstalk offers a unique opportunity to work in a vibrant mountain town while being part of a dynamic and focused group of culinary and restaurant professionals.

Compensation Details

Compensation: Hourly ($18.00 - $23.00) plus tips

Benefits & Perks: Health Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, 401k, Potential Bonuses, Dining Discounts, Wellness Program, Housing options available, Ski Pass

Required Skills

Advanced Knife Skills

Food Safety Knowledge

Cleaning / Sanitation

Teamwork

Work In a Fast-Paced Environment

Communication

Kitchen Equipment Use

Efficiency

Cooking Methods

Following Recipes

Accuracy

Time Management

Motivated

Gallery

Rootstalk bar

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Rootstalk

New American

Upscale Casual

Rootstalk is a modern American restaurant founded on the idea of coming home. Chef Matt Vawter was born and raised in Summit County and spent the formative years of his culinary career in Keystone and Breckenridge. After spending a period of time away from Breckenridge, Chef Matt returned to his hometown determined to open a restaurant of his own and help grow the culinary landscape in Summit County.
The name Rootstalk refers to rhizomes which are all connected via a complex underground root system. The name was inspired by the large stands of Aspen trees surrounding the community of Breckenridge. From old dormant roots, Rootstalk was opened in December of 2020 in a historic home on North Main Street in Breckenridge. The restaurant seeks to provide “Elevated, Everyday Dining” to the local community as well as out of town visitors. The cuisine is ingredient focused, technique driven and deeply committed to quality at all levels. From 7 course tasting menus paired with wine to simply having a quick snack and beverage at the bar. There is truly something for everyone on the menu. Our hospitality model is team oriented and based on the idea of welcoming someone into your home. The two dining areas of the restaurant are beautiful juxtapositions of each other. Upstairs is bright, elegant, and airy with views of main street offered by bay windows in the front. The Root Cellar downstairs offers a more intimate dining experience with a Chef’s Counter available for those who love to be part of the action. Cocktails are created with intention and given the same level of care as the food on the plate. The wine program is focused on small scale quality producers from across the globe from the classic to more esoteric modern styles.