Head Chef

Habibi's Cafe & Bistro; Mumbai; On-site; INR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Job summary

Habibi’s Cafe & Bistro in Mumbai seeks a Head Chef to oversee the kitchen, execute the menu, and maintain high-quality Middle Eastern dishes. You will lead and train the kitchen team, ensure food safety, and manage inventory and costs to support guest satisfaction.

The role requires strong leadership, culinary expertise, and flexibility to work weekends/evenings in a vibrant café setting.

Qualifications

• Strong expertise in Middle Eastern cuisine and all-day dining menus.
• Experience leading kitchen teams, including training and scheduling.
• Solid knowledge of food safety, hygiene standards, and cost control.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume setting with attention to detail.
• Collaborates with front-of-house teams to ensure smooth service.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef experience in cafe/bistro settings preferred.
• Formal culinary training or equivalent hands-on kitchen experience.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and evenings.

Responsibilities

• Oversee kitchen operation and menu execution.
• Lead, train, and schedule kitchen staff.
• Ensure consistent quality and adherence to recipes.
• Manage inventory, costs, and supplier coordination.
• Collaborate with management to uphold the brand’s culinary identity.

Skills

Middle Eastern cuisine

Kitchen leadership

Food safety

Inventory management

Cost control

Menu development

Staff training

Education

Culinary training or certification

Job description

Company Description

Habibi’s Cafe & Bistro is a modern Middle Eastern café and bistro located in Hiranandani Estate, Thane, known for bold flavors, high-quality ingredients, and warm hospitality. The menu features Middle Eastern cuisine, all-day dining options, specialty coffee, craft matcha, and a curated selection of craft beers, ciders, and meads. The space is designed as a welcoming environment to meet, eat, unwind, and celebrate throughout the day and evening. Open daily from morning to late night, Habibi’s offers a contemporary café culture with Middle Eastern soul for guests seeking memorable food and beverage experiences.

Role Description

The Head Chef is a full-time, on-site role based at Habibi’s Cafe & Bistro in Mumbai. This role oversees the entire kitchen operation, including menu execution, food preparation, plating, and consistent quality control for Middle Eastern and café-style dishes. The Head Chef leads, trains, and schedules kitchen team members, ensuring efficient workflows, adherence to recipes, and high standards of food safety and hygiene. Responsibilities include inventory management, cost control, supplier coordination, and participation in menu development and seasonal specials. The Head Chef collaborates closely with the management team to maintain a smooth service, support guest satisfaction, and uphold the brand’s culinary identity.

Qualifications

• Strong expertise in Middle Eastern cuisine and all-day dining menus, with the ability to develop and refine recipes and presentations.
• Proven experience in leading kitchen teams, including training, scheduling, performance management, and fostering a respectful, inclusive work environment.
• Solid knowledge of food safety, hygiene standards, and kitchen operations, including inventory management and cost control.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume setting while maintaining consistency, quality, and attention to detail.
• Experience collaborating with front-of-house teams to ensure smooth service, timely order execution, and positive guest experiences.
• Strong organizational and communication skills, with proficiency in documenting recipes, processes, and daily production plans.
• Prior experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a café, bistro, or casual dining restaurant; experience in specialty coffee or beverage-focused concepts is an advantage.
• Formal culinary training or certification is preferred; equivalent hands-on experience in professional kitchens will also be considered.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and evenings, in line with the café’s operating schedule.

Preference: Immediate Joiners