Head Chef | Durban | Upmarket Restaurant

Recruit for Africa PTY Limited; Durban; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious restaurant in Durban is seeking a Head Chef to lead a high-end culinary team. The ideal candidate has significant experience in Mediterranean and fusion cuisines, strong leadership skills, and a commitment to culinary excellence. You'll be responsible for driving innovation, developing menus, and managing kitchen operations. A competitive salary package, including bonuses and benefits, is offered for this exciting role set to start in January 2026.

Benefits

Meal on duty

Uniform provided

Cellphone allowance

Transport assistance for late finishes

Performance bonus

Qualifications

• 5–7+ years in modern Mediterranean, fusion, or fine-casual kitchens.
• 2–3+ years experience leading a brigade of 8–15 team members.
• Proven track record in culinary innovation and consistent execution.

Responsibilities

• Drive culinary excellence and creative direction across cuisines.
• Spearhead menu development and seasonal innovation.
• Oversee food costing and supplier relationships.
• Manage kitchen operations including team leadership and scheduling.
• Collaborate with marketing teams for culinary events.

Skills

Culinary innovation

Leadership

Cost control

Menu development

Education

Culinary diploma or equivalent certification

Job description

Head Chef | Durban | Upmarket Restaurant

We’re seeking a visionary and accomplished HEAD CHEF to lead a dynamic, high‑end culinary team in Durban. This is a rare opportunity to shape and elevate a culturally inspired kitchen that celebrates African fusion cuisine with global flair.

As the restaurant enters an ambitious new chapter of growth, the ideal candidate will bring bold creativity, strategic leadership, and an unwavering commitment to culinary excellence. You’ll play a pivotal role in crafting exceptional dining experiences and driving innovation—while growing with a brand that aspires to become a world‑class Afro‑Mediterranean social dining destination.

INTERVIEWS DURING NOVEMBER – DECEMBER

START DATE – JANUARY 2026

Experience & Qualifications

• Culinary diploma or equivalent professional certification
• 5–7+ years in modern Mediterranean, fusion, or fine‑casual kitchens
• 2–3+ years experience leading a brigade of 8–15 team members
• Proven track record in culinary innovation, cost control, and consistent execution

Key Responsibilities

• Drive culinary excellence and creative direction across Afro‑Mediterranean and Afro‑Nikkei cuisine
• Spearhead menu development and seasonal innovation
• Oversee food costing, procurement, and supplier relationships with a focus on premium, sustainable sourcing
• Manage kitchen operations including team leadership, scheduling, hygiene compliance, and service execution
• Collaborate with beverage and marketing teams to curate pairings and design engaging culinary events

Salary Package & Benefits

• R30,000 – R45,000 (depending on the skills level)
• Performance bonus (based on food cost %, consistency, and guest reviews)
• Meal on duty and uniform provided
• Cellphone allowance
• Transport assistance for late finishes (case‑by‑case eligibility)
• Incentives commence after a 3‑month probation period

To apply for Head Chef | Durban | Upmarket Restaurant, please send your CV WITH UP‑TO‑DATE EMPLOYMENT HISTORY AND INSERTED FULL‑LENGTH PHOTO.

We appreciate all applications. However, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment, within 10 working days of the application.