Head Chef

SUMMARY:
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POSITION INFO:

An established and highly regarded fine dining restaurant located within the Durbanville Wine Valley is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead its kitchen brigade.

This is an excellent opportunity for a passionate culinary professional who thrives in a high-standard environment and is committed to delivering exceptional dining experiences. The successful candidate will play a key role in maintaining the restaurant's reputation for quality, creativity and consistency while leading and developing the kitchen team.

Due to the location and operating hours, candidates must have their own reliable transport and be able to travel easily to and from the Durbanville Wine Valley (non-negotiable).

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all day-to-day kitchen operations
• Develop, refine and implement seasonal menus aligned with the restaurant's culinary vision
• Ensure exceptional food quality, consistency and presentation standards
• Manage food costs, stock control, purchasing and supplier relationships
• Oversee inventory management and minimise wastage
• Lead, mentor and develop the kitchen team
• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene and health regulations
• Maintain efficient kitchen workflow during service periods
• Work closely with management and front-of-house teams to deliver an outstanding guest experience
• Drive creativity, innovation and continuous improvement within the kitchen

Minimum Requirements

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef within a fine dining environment
• Relevant culinary qualification
• Strong leadership and people management skills
• Experience with menu planning and development
• Solid understanding of food costing, stock management and kitchen budgeting
• Excellent organisational and time management abilities
• Passion for culinary excellence and attention to detail
• Ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment
• Strong communication and team collaboration skills
• Own reliable transport and ability to travel to the Durbanville Wine Valley

What We Offer

• Opportunity to lead a respected fine dining kitchen
• Professional and supportive working environment
• Creative input into menu development and culinary direction
• Work within one of the Cape's most established wine estate destinations

Suitable candidates will be shortlisted accordingly.

Application Notice

We receive a high volume of applications and carefully review each one. If you do not hear from us within 14 days, please consider your application unsuccessful. By applying, you consent to your information being processed and stored for recruitment purposes in line with POPIA.