Head Chef - Italian Pasta & Cuisine

University of Fort Hare; Somerset West; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A premium Italian-style restaurant in Somerset West is seeking a passionate Head Chef specializing in Italian cuisine. The role requires overseeing pasta dishes and desserts while managing a kitchen team to ensure top-notch culinary experiences. Ideal candidates will have 5–7 years of experience in fine dining, strong leadership skills, and a comprehensive understanding of health and safety standards in kitchens. This position promises a vibrant work environment reflecting a commitment to culinary excellence.

Qualifications

• 5-7 years of experience in high-quality Italian kitchens.
• Formal culinary training is preferred.
• Passionate about Italian cuisine with attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Lead kitchen operations focusing on Italian cuisine.
• Ensure quality and presentation of all Italian dishes.
• Manage kitchen team and maintain health standards.

Skills

Expertise in pasta preparation

Knowledge of health and safety standards

Leadership and mentoring

Excellent communication

Education

Diploma or degree in Culinary Arts

Job description

Market related Monthly Basic Salary (Market related)

HEAD CHEF – ITALIAN CUISINE & PASTA
Somerset West: My client, a premium Italian-style restaurant focusing on fresh, high-quality Italian meals, is seeking a passionate, hands‑on Pasta Chef to lead the kitchen with a focus on fresh, high-quality Italian meals. The role involves overseeing the preparation of pasta dishes, desserts and Italian specials, and managing the team to deliver exceptional culinary experiences.

Purpose of the role

To ensure consistent quality, presentation and adherence to health, safety and hygiene standards while mentoring the kitchen staff and maintaining operational excellence. The ideal candidate has a deep love for Italian cuisine, strong leadership skills, exceptional attention to detail, and thrives in a fast‑paced, high‑standard kitchen.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the kitchen operation with a strong focus on Italian cuisine, pasta dishes, desserts and traditional Italian meals
• Demonstrate expert knowledge of pasta techniques, sauces, toppings and classic Italian preparations
• Prepare, oversee and ensure consistent quality of pasta dishes, pizza toppings, desserts and other Italian menu items
• Manage the kitchen team effectively through clear instruction, mentoring and delegation
• Ensure strict adherence to health, safety and hygiene standards at all times
• Control stock, rotate ingredients and manage inventory efficiently, ensuring all items are correctly labelled and stored
• Develop, refine and maintain recipes and presentations in line with the restaurant’s standards
• Work closely with management to plan menus, specials and seasonal offerings
• Troubleshoot operational or culinary challenges and implement effective solutions
• Lead by example with professional appearance, a strong work ethic and hands‑on involvement in food preparation
• Maintain cleaning schedules and ensure all tasks are completed to standard
• Communicate professionally and consistently with all team members and management
• Foster a positive, collaborative and high‑performance kitchen culture

Criteria

• Proven experience as a senior chef in Italian cuisine with responsibility for pasta dishes, desserts and Italian meals
• Minimum 5–7 years’ hands‑on experience in high‑quality or fine‑dining Italian kitchens
• Demonstrated expertise in pasta preparation, sauces, toppings and classic Italian dessert techniques
• Experience managing a kitchen team including mentoring, delegation, stock control and operational oversight
• Strong knowledge of health, safety and hygiene standards in professional kitchens
• Formal culinary training, diploma or degree in Culinary Arts or equivalent is preferred
• Additional Italian cuisine or specialised pasta certifications are an advantage
• Passionate about Italian cuisine with pride, dedication and attention to detail in all culinary work
• Energetic, organised and methodical with excellent time management skills
• Demonstrated leadership, mentoring and team‑building abilitiesProactive problem‑solving skills and ability to maintain kitchen efficiency under pressure
• Excellent communication and professional presentation at all times
• Ability to work effectively independently and collaboratively while maintaining high standards and consistency