Chef

Bonita Bonita; Gold Coast City; On-site; AUD 52,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

Bonita Bonita is a lively Mexican taqueria and tequila bar in Mermaid Beach, QLD. We seek an experienced Chef for a full-time role (38 hours/week) to lead, create, and refine bold dishes with fresh, local ingredients.

You will oversee food prep, mentor junior kitchen staff, and uphold health and safety standards in a fast-paced setting. Collaboration with management on seasonal menus and cost control is key.

Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year of professional chef experience.
• Associate degree or diploma in a relevant field.
• Passion for Mexican-inspired cuisine and bold flavours.

Responsibilities

• Oversee food preparation across all stages to maintain consistency in taste, portioning, and presentation.
• Prepare a wide range of Mexican-inspired dishes, sauces, marinades, and accompaniments with creativity and precision.
• Monitor and uphold high standards of cleanliness and food safety throughout all kitchen areas in compliance with health regulations.
• Provide hands-on training and guidance to junior kitchen staff in food preparation and kitchen procedures.
• Develop and refine seasonal and chef’s special menus in collaboration with management, ensuring dishes reflect Mexican influences while incorporating fresh, local ingredients.
• Accurately estimate food and labour costs to ensure cost-effective operations without compromising quality.
• Collaborate with front-of-house and kitchen teams to ensure smooth coordination during service, especially during peak periods.
• Contribute to sourcing and ordering quality food supplies, ensuring stock levels align with anticipated business demands.
• Inspect ingredients and supplies upon delivery to verify freshness, quality, and alignment with Bonita Bonita’s standards.
• Demonstrate and share modern cooking techniques, contributing to a culture of continuous learning in the kitchen.
• Adjust food preparation methods to accommodate special dietary requirements and guest preferences.
• Innovate and test new dishes, contributing to special event menus and promotional offerings.
• Ensure timely and efficient service during high-volume dining periods, maintaining composure and focus under pressure.

Skills

Leadership

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Communication

Menu planning

Education

Associate Degree

Advanced Diploma

Diploma in Culinary

Job description

Bonita Bonita is a lively and much-loved modern Mexican taqueria and tequila bar located in the heart of Mermaid Beach. With over a decade of culinary excellence behind us, we’re proud to serve bold, flavour-packed dishes and signature cocktails inspired by the spirit of Mexico and elevated by the freshness of local produce. From our famous Bonita Margarita to our beloved tacos and share plates, we are a destination for locals and visitors alike who crave vibrant food and an unforgettable dining experience.

We are now seeking an experienced Chef to join our dynamic kitchen team on a full-time basis (38 hours per week). This is a fantastic opportunity to work in a fast-paced and creative environment where innovation, teamwork, and attention to detail are highly valued.

Position: Chef at Bonita Bonita

Location: Bonita Bonita – Mermaid Beach, QLD

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee food preparation across all stages to maintain consistency in taste, portioning, and presentation.
• Prepare a wide range of Mexican-inspired dishes, sauces, marinades, and accompaniments with creativity and precision.
• Monitor and uphold high standards of cleanliness and food safety throughout all kitchen areas in compliance with health regulations.
• Provide hands-on training and guidance to junior kitchen staff in food preparation and kitchen procedures.
• Develop and refine seasonal and chef’s special menus in collaboration with management, ensuring dishes reflect Mexican influences while incorporating fresh, local ingredients.
• Accurately estimate food and labour costs to ensure cost-effective operations without compromising quality.
• Collaborate with front-of-house and kitchen teams to ensure smooth coordination during service, especially during peak periods.
• Contribute to sourcing and ordering quality food supplies, ensuring stock levels align with anticipated business demands.
• Inspect ingredients and supplies upon delivery to verify freshness, quality, and alignment with Bonita Bonita’s standards.
• Demonstrate and share modern cooking techniques, contributing to a culture of continuous learning in the kitchen.
• Adjust food preparation methods to accommodate special dietary requirements and guest preferences.
• Innovate and test new dishes, contributing to special event menus and promotional offerings.
• Ensure timely and efficient service during high-volume dining periods, maintaining composure and focus under pressure.

Employment Type:

Full-time (38 hours/week)

Qualifications:

Minimum Associate Degree, Advanced Diploma, or Diploma in a relevant field

Experience:

Minimum 1 year of experience as a Chef

Personal Attributes:

We’re looking for someone who:

• Has a passion for bold, flavour-driven cuisine and a deep appreciation for Mexican culinary traditions
• Thrives in a busy kitchen and works effectively as part of a collaborative team
• Demonstrates strong leadership and mentoring skills
• Pays close attention to detail in both preparation and presentation
• Communicates clearly and respectfully with kitchen and service staff
• Is proactive, organised, and adaptable in a fast-paced environment
• Maintains professionalism, cleanliness, and pride in every plate served

Join Us

If you’re a dedicated and enthusiastic chef who enjoys bringing people together through exceptional food, Bonita Bonita is the place for you. Come and be part of a venue that values creativity, authenticity, and quality.