Job Title: Head Chef
Location: South Yarra, Melbourne
Restaurant Type: Semi-Fine Dining Italian

About Us:

Located in the heart of South Yarra, our restaurant offers an elevated yet approachable dining experience inspired by traditional Italian cuisine. We blend classic flavors with contemporary techniques, delivering exquisite dishes that reflect the authenticity and passion of Italian cooking. As we continue to grow, we are seeking a talented and passionate Head Chef to join our team and lead our kitchen.

Position Overview:

As the Head Chef, you will oversee the daily operations of the kitchen, ensuring that every dish meets our high standards of quality, consistency, and presentation. You will be responsible for leading and inspiring a talented culinary team, creating innovative Italian menus, maintaining kitchen efficiency, and upholding food safety and hygiene standards.

Key Responsibilities:

Menu Creation & Development:

• Design and implement seasonal menus that highlight fresh, local ingredients and reflect the Italian culinary tradition with a modern twist.
• Continuously innovate and refine dishes, ensuring they meet the restaurant’s concept and customer expectations.

Leadership & Team Management:

• Lead, train, and motivate the kitchen brigade to maintain high standards of food preparation, presentation, and service.
• Foster a positive, collaborative, and efficient working environment.
• Conduct regular team meetings, providing feedback, coaching, and ongoing development to team members.

Quality Control:

• Ensure consistency and quality in every dish that leaves the kitchen.
• Monitor food preparation and plating to meet our high aesthetic and taste standards.
• Regularly inspect kitchen equipment and workstations for safety, cleanliness, and organization.

Operational Management:

• Manage inventory, ensuring all ingredients are stocked and utilized efficiently while minimizing waste.
• Control food costs through effective budgeting, portion control, and ordering.
• Ensure adherence to health and safety standards and regulatory compliance, including food safety and sanitation protocols.

Collaboration with Front of House:

• Work closely with the restaurant's management team and front-of-house staff to ensure smooth service and effective communication.
• Adapt and adjust dishes based on customer feedback and dietary restrictions.

Required Qualifications & Experience:

• Proven experience as a Head Chef, Sous Chef, or similar leadership role in a semi-fine dining or high-end restaurant environment.
• Extensive knowledge of Italian cuisine, including traditional techniques and modern trends.
• Exceptional leadership skills with a track record of developing and managing a kitchen team.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail and high-quality standards.
• Strong organizational skills, including time management, inventory control, and menu planning.
• Solid understanding of food safety and sanitation practices.

Desired Skills:

• Formal culinary training is highly regarded but not mandatory.
• Passion for creativity, fine food, and exceptional service.
• Ability to adapt to seasonal changes and incorporate fresh, local ingredients.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate with a diverse team.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Opportunities for career growth and development.
• A dynamic, supportive, and creative work environment.
• Staff meals and other perks.

How to Apply:

If you’re an experienced and passionate chef ready to lead a dynamic kitchen team, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume, along with a cover letter outlining your experience and why you would be the perfect fit for this role.

Join us in delivering exceptional Italian dining experiences and become a key part of our growing restaurant in South Yarra!