Italian Kitchen Lead Abu Dhabi Opening

Sunset Hospitality Group; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 167,000 - 257,000; Full time

Job summary

Sunset Hospitality Group is seeking an experienced Sous Chef to join ISOLA Abu Dhabi's opening team. The ideal candidate has a strong background in Italian cuisine and proven kitchen leadership to deliver authentic Italian dishes with consistency.

You will work closely with the Head Chef to manage daily operations, train staff, control food cost, and ensure top-notch food safety and service standards in a dynamic Abu Dhabi environment.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Sous Chef in an established restaurant.
• Strong experience in Italian restaurants or Italian kitchens.
• Knowledge of Italian ingredients, pasta, risotto, sauces, meats and seafood.
• Experience leading kitchen teams during busy services.
• Understanding of food costing, purchasing, inventory and waste management.
• Strong leadership, organisation and problem-solving skills.
• UAE or GCC restaurant experience is advantageous.
• Willingness to work in Abu Dhabi.

Responsibilities

• Assist Head Chef in daily kitchen operations and standards.
• Lead service and coordinate sections for timely dish execution.
• Ensure recipes, portions and presentation are followed.
• Train and develop culinary staff.
• Assist in menu development and recipe standardisation.
• Manage ordering, stock rotation and waste in line with food cost targets.
• Support staff scheduling and duties as required.
• Maintain food safety, hygiene and cleanliness.
• Lead kitchen ops in Head Chef's absence.
• Support pre-opening kitchen setup and team training.

Skills

Sous Chef

Italian cuisine

Kitchen leadership

Food costing & inventory

Staff training

Menu development

Pre-opening experience

Abu Dhabi relocation

Team collaboration

Job description

Sunset Hospitality Group is seeking an experienced Sous Chef to join ISOLA Abu Dhabi's opening team. The ideal candidate has a strong background in Italian cuisine and proven kitchen leadership to deliver authentic Italian dishes with consistency.

You will work closely with the Head Chef to manage daily operations, train staff, control food cost, and ensure top-notch food safety and service standards in a dynamic Abu Dhabi environment.