This is a rare opportunity to help shape the food offering at one of Melbourne’s most legendary music venues. We offer:

A fun, high-energy work environment in a venue that values creativity, collaboration, and inclusivity.

The chance to create a new pub menu in an iconic venue with room for input and evolution.

The Mill Brewery has recently taken the reins at The Bendi, bringing with it an established team, a strong community focus, and a commitment to great beer and hospitality. Now, we need a chef who can handle the heat and make the kitchen an essential part of the experience.

About the Role

As Head Chef, you’ll be responsible for running the kitchen with efficiency, consistency, and quality. This is a hands-on role where you’ll oversee:

Menu Execution & Input – Bringing expertise and creativity to refine our pub menu while working within cost margins and seasonal availability.

Kitchen Leadership and recruitment – Managing and recruiting a small, tight-knit team, ensuring smooth service and a positive work environment.

Stock & Cost Control – Ordering, stocktaking, and managing food costs to maximize quality and efficiency.

Compliance & Safety – Ensuring the kitchen meets all food safety and hygiene regulations.

Collaboration – Working alongside the bar and events teams to create food offerings that complement the venue’s beers, events, gigs, and atmosphere.

About You

You’re a driven, capable, and experienced chef who thrives in a fast-paced, high-energy venue. You’ll bring:

Proven experience as a Head Chef or Sous Chef in a pub, bar, café or similar fast-paced kitchen.

Strong leadership and team management skills – you know how to motivate people and keep the vibe positive.

A passion for pub food done well, with an understanding of cost control and service efficiency.

Excellent organisation and problem-solving skills– keeping cool when things get busy.

A keen eye for detail, ensuring consistency and quality in every dish.

The ability to work nights and weekends – we’re a late-night venue, and the kitchen runs when the action happens.

Ready to take charge of the kitchen? Apply with your CV and a short cover letter telling us why you’re the perfect fit for The Bendi.