Executive Chef - Fine Dining Restaurant

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Growth opportunities

Prestigious venue

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town is recruiting an Executive Chef for a prestigious fine dining establishment. You will lead the kitchen, drive menu innovation, and ensure peak culinary quality and presentation to wow discerning guests.

The role requires at least 7 years in top restaurants or hotels, with 3 years as Executive Chef, a culinary degree, and strong leadership. You will manage costs, safety standards, and mentor a talented team in a fast-paced, excellence-driven environment.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive experience in high-end restaurant or hotel kitchen environments.
• 3+ years in an Executive Chef role.
• Proven ability in menu development, costing, and kitchen budget management.
• Strong leadership, communication, and team-building skills.
• Thorough knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices.

Responsibilities

• Lead, manage, and mentor the kitchen brigade, ensuring high morale and performance.
• Develop innovative, seasonal menus and daily specials, focusing on quality ingredients and presentation.
• Manage all aspects of kitchen operations, including inventory, purchasing, cost control, and waste reduction.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, and hygiene standards (HACCP).
• Collaborate with the F&B Manager to align culinary offerings with overall restaurant objectives and guest expectations.
• Conduct regular taste panels and quality checks to maintain consistency and excellence.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Cost control

HACCP knowledge

Communication

Team mentoring

Education

Culinary degree

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious fine dining establishment in the vibrant culinary scene of Cape Town , is seeking a creative and experienced Executive Chef . This pivotal role involves leading the entire culinary team, developing innovative menus, and maintaining the highest standards of food quality and presentation. The ideal candidate will have a passion for gastronomy, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to manage a demanding kitchen environment while fostering a culture of excellence and creativity. You will be instrumental in maintaining the restaurant's reputation for exceptional cuisine and ensuring a world-class dining experience for its discerning clientele in Cape Town .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, manage, and mentor the kitchen brigade, ensuring high morale and performance.
• Develop innovative, seasonal menus and daily specials, focusing on quality ingredients and presentation.
• Manage all aspects of kitchen operations, including inventory, purchasing, cost control, and waste reduction.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, and hygiene standards (HACCP).
• Collaborate with the F&B Manager to align culinary offerings with overall restaurant objectives and guest expectations.
• Conduct regular taste panels and quality checks to maintain consistency and excellence.

Requirements

• Minimum 7 years of progressive experience in high-end restaurant or hotel kitchen environments, with at least 3 years as an Executive Chef.
• Demonstrated culinary artistry with a strong understanding of classical and contemporary cooking techniques.
• Proven ability in menu development, costing, and kitchen budget management.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and team-building skills.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional qualification from a recognized institution.
• Thorough knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Performance-based bonuses and profit-sharing opportunities.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for culinary innovation and professional growth.
• A prestigious working environment in beautiful Cape Town .