Winery Head Chef: Lead Kitchen, Create Menus & Events

Cobbs Hill Estate Pty Ltd; Adelaide; On-site; AUD 77,000 - 104,000; Full time

Job summary

Cobbs Hill Estate is seeking a Head Chef to lead our kitchen in the Adelaide Hills, overseeing restaurant, garden dining, and events. You will shape seasonal menus that complement our estate wines and manage costs while mentoring a small team.

The role is hands‑on, with day‑to‑day leadership, strong collaboration with management, and a focus on delivering high‑quality dining experiences for guests and events.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef with leadership responsibilities.
• Strong leadership and team development skills.
• Sound financial understanding of food cost control and kitchen labour management.
• Experience with functions, events and high‑volume service.
• Passion for local produce and seasonal cooking.
• Excellent organisational and communication skills.
• Hands‑on approach and commitment to quality.

Responsibilities

• Lead all kitchen operations across restaurant, garden dining and events.
• Develop seasonal menus that showcase local produce and complement wines.
• Manage food costs, stock control, ordering, and supplier relationships.
• Train and mentor kitchen staff.
• Drive consistency, quality and presentation standards.
• Maintain food safety and compliance systems.
• Collaborate with management to develop new food experiences and events.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Food cost control

Staff mentoring

Events management

High-volume service

Job description

Cobbs Hill Estate is seeking a Head Chef to lead our kitchen in the Adelaide Hills, overseeing restaurant, garden dining, and events. You will shape seasonal menus that complement our estate wines and manage costs while mentoring a small team.

The role is hands‑on, with day‑to‑day leadership, strong collaboration with management, and a focus on delivering high‑quality dining experiences for guests and events.