Franca’s Ristorante is an exciting new culinary destination opening October 2025 within the newly redeveloped Bayside Geelong Hotel & Apartments. Our restaurant will celebrate the best of regional produce through daily-changing menus featuring traditional Italian techniques—from handmade pastas and sourdough pizzas to house-made sauces and gelato.

Be part of a passionate and collaborative kitchen team led by our Executive Chef, with opportunities for growth as we prepare for our flagship restaurant’s launch in 2026.

Bayside Geelong Hotel & Apartments:

We aim to be peoples first choice for accommodation in Geelong.

We do not take our waterfront location for granted though.

Currently undergoing a transformation, Bayside Geelong Hotel & Apartments is due to open its new build rooms, restaurant and bar, conferencing, and guest facilities in Aug 2025.

When complete Bayside Geelong will offer 110 guest rooms including a mix of 1 and 2 bedroom self-contained and studio apartments, Superior rooms, and an industry leading number of accessible rooms. The hotel will also include multiple conference and event spaces, an indoor pool, sauna and fitness centre.

The property will boast 2 restaurants and bars, Franca's Ristorante will be the first to open in August 2025. The second, our Flagship Restaurant will open September 2026.

We’re Hiring:

We’re looking for dynamic and career-focused professionals to join our opening kitchen team across a range of positions:

Pizza Chefs - Casual

Kitchen (HIGA) Level 4 Chefs

Experience:

A minimum of 1–5 years kitchen experience (varies by role)

Working in high-quality, fast-paced environments

Skills and Knowledge:

Sound knowledge of Italian, European, and Southern Mediterranean cuisines

A team-first attitude with strong communication and organisational skills

A true passion for food and a desire to cook at a 1-hatted level or above

Responsibilities:

Prepare and present dishes to the highest standards

Follow food safety and hygiene protocols at all times

Assist in efficient day-to-day kitchen operations

Contribute to menu development and event planning

Support a positive kitchen culture and mentor junior staff

Qualifications:

Certificate III or IV in Commercial Cookery

Valid Food Handling Certification

Valid Police Check

Benefits we offer:

A competitive salary

Discounts across our hotel network

Collaborative working environment in a small team

As an independently owned and operated hotel, we have the freedom to innovate and implement new ideas quickly and easily

Ready to Join the Team?

Submit your cover letter and CV, clearly stating which chef position you are applying for.

Be part of something extraordinary—apply now to help shape the future of Franca’s Ristorante.