Head Chef - Farm-to-Table Restaurant

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 720,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Paid time off

Retirement plan

Career development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a seasoned Head Chef for a renowned farm-to-table restaurant in Paarl, Western Cape. The role requires leading the culinary team, shaping seasonal menus, and ensuring top quality through sustainable sourcing and meticulous kitchen management.

You will drive menu development, mentor staff, manage costs, and uphold strict food safety standards while delivering exceptional dining experiences for local guests and visitors in a dynamic, hands-on kitchen.

Qualifications

• 6+ years as Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in fine dining or farm-to-table settings.
• Proven expertise in seasonal menu development and dish design.
• Strong farm-to-table and sustainable sourcing knowledge.
• Proven leadership to inspire and manage a kitchen team.
• Excellent food safety, sanitation, and health regulations knowledge.
• Proficiency in inventory management, food costing, and budgeting.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to handle pressure and prioritize in a fast-paced kitchen.
• Passion for high-quality ingredients and culinary excellence.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and presentation.
• Develop and execute seasonal menus that highlight the freshest local ingredients.
• Manage, train, and mentor kitchen staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Ensure the highest standards of food quality, taste, and consistency are met at all times.
• Control food costs, manage inventory, and minimize waste through efficient procurement and utilization.
• Implement and enforce strict food safety, sanitation, and hygiene protocols.
• Collaborate with front-of-house management to ensure seamless guest experiences.
• Source ingredients from local farms and suppliers, building strong relationships within the community.
• Maintain kitchen equipment and ensure a safe and orderly working environment.
• Contribute to the restaurant's overall vision and culinary direction.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Farm-to-table

Food safety

Budgeting

Staff management

Communication

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly acclaimed farm-to-table restaurant located in the scenic town of Paarl , is seeking an experienced and passionate Head Chef to lead their culinary team. This is an exceptional opportunity for a chef who is deeply committed to showcasing the finest seasonal produce sourced directly from local farms. The Head Chef will be responsible for the overall kitchen operations, menu development, staff management, and maintaining the restaurant's reputation for outstanding quality and innovative cuisine. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a creative culinary vision, and a profound understanding of sustainable and ethical sourcing practices. You will be instrumental in translating the bounty of the Western Cape into memorable dining experiences for guests. This role demands a hands-on approach, a commitment to excellence, and the ability to inspire a team to achieve consistently high standards. Join a team dedicated to celebrating the authentic flavors of the region and pushing culinary boundaries.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and presentation.
• Develop and execute seasonal menus that highlight the freshest local ingredients.
• Manage, train, and mentor kitchen staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Ensure the highest standards of food quality, taste, and consistency are met at all times.
• Control food costs, manage inventory, and minimize waste through efficient procurement and utilization.
• Implement and enforce strict food safety, sanitation, and hygiene protocols.
• Collaborate with front-of-house management to ensure seamless guest experiences.
• Source ingredients from local farms and suppliers, building strong relationships within the community.
• Maintain kitchen equipment and ensure a safe and orderly working environment.
• Contribute to the restaurant's overall vision and culinary direction.

Requirements

• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef, preferably in a fine dining or farm-to-table establishment.
• Proven expertise in seasonal menu development and creative dish design.
• Strong understanding of farm-to-table principles and sustainable sourcing practices.
• Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to inspire and manage a kitchen team effectively.
• Excellent knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and health regulations.
• Proficiency in inventory management, food costing, and budget control.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• A passion for high-quality ingredients and a dedication to culinary excellence.
• Flexibility to work various shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with experience, and a generous bonus structure.
• Full-time employees receive comprehensive health benefits, paid time off, and retirement plan options.
• You will have the opportunity to work in a creative and inspiring environment, collaborating with passionate individuals and contributing to a celebrated culinary destination in Paarl.
• Professional development and opportunities for career advancement are available.
• This is an exciting role for a chef eager to make a significant impact.