Head Chef

PikUniq; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

PikUniq in Cape Town seeks an experienced Head Chef to lead a vibrant kitchen in a popular Middle Eastern restaurant. This role demands strong leadership and kitchen management skills, ensuring high standards of food quality and safety while engaging with guests and working alongside a service-oriented team. Ideal candidates will bring energy, structure, and a collaborative spirit to a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• 2+ years experience as Head Chef in a large kitchen.
• Strong management capabilities with a focus on quality.
• Computer literate with digital tools for scheduling.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage kitchen operations and staff.
• Ensure food safety and hygiene compliance.
• Oversee inventory and cost management.

Skills

Leadership

Inventory Management

Hygiene Compliance

Food Cost Management

Communication

Job description

Job Title: Head Chef
Location: Sea Point, Cape Town
Industry: Hospitality / Food & Beverage (Middle Eastern Restaurant)

Overview:
This is a leadership role for an experienced and highly organised Head Chef to manage a fast-paced, open-style kitchen in a popular Middle Eastern restaurant that's been operating for 4 years. The role goes beyond cooking — it's about managing people, systems, and the overall kitchen environment, while being visible to guests and part of a strong, service-focused team culture.

Key Responsibilities:
Lead the kitchen team with a hands-on, calm, and professional approach
Maintain and improve kitchen systems (checklists, ordering, hygiene, scheduling)
Oversee inventory, stock control, food cost management, and BOH admin
Train, mentor, and manage kitchen staff
Develop menus and recipes collaboratively
Ensure hygiene and food safety compliance at all times
Engage with customers as needed, providing a friendly and composed presence
Work closely with FOH (Front of House) to ensure seamless service

Minimum Requirements:
2+ years proven experience as Head Chef in a large, fast-paced kitchen
Strong leadership and kitchen management capabilities
Passionate about food, with a focus on consistency and quality
System-oriented: enjoys structure, order, SOPs, and efficiency
Experience in inventory, food cost tracking, and admin
Computer literate: confident with spreadsheets, digital ordering, and staff scheduling tools
Ability to multitask and remain focused under pressure
Friendly, team-oriented, and comfortable in a guest-facing kitchen

Ideal Candidate:
Highly structured and organised
Naturally leads by example
Brings great energy to the team
Thrives in a collaborative, customer-facing environment