Head Chef - Create a Ground-Up Resort Kitchen

Surfers Cove; Óbidos; On-site; EUR 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

Surfers Cove, Portugal’s first wave pool, is seeking a Head Chef to lead its restaurant and build a kitchen from the ground up. This unique project blends sport, hospitality and gastronomy in a coastal resort setting.

You will develop the menu, recruit and train the kitchen team, select suppliers and set operations ahead of the opening. The role demands creative leadership, strong cost control and a passion for Portuguese produce.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience as Head Chef or Sous Chef ready for next step.
• Proven ability to lead teams in high-volume, fast-paced operations.
• Strong understanding of costs, staffing, ratios and waste management.
• Valid HACCP certification.
• Fluent in Portuguese and English.
• Willingness to join a startup kitchen from day one.

Responsibilities

• Develop the menu and culinary concept from day one.
• Recruit, train and lead the kitchen team.
• Select suppliers and define operation ahead of opening.
• Coordinate with Front of House, Events and Accommodation teams.
• Establish recipes, food cost and purchasing processes.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Cost control

HACCP certification

Portuguese & English

Weekend availability

Job description

Surfers Cove, Portugal’s first wave pool, is seeking a Head Chef to lead its restaurant and build a kitchen from the ground up. This unique project blends sport, hospitality and gastronomy in a coastal resort setting.

You will develop the menu, recruit and train the kitchen team, select suppliers and set operations ahead of the opening. The role demands creative leadership, strong cost control and a passion for Portuguese produce.