Cape Town Region: Restaurant Head Chef I Cape Town posted by J D Specialized Recruitment

April 14, 2026 Jobs in Cape Peninsula

J D Specialized Recruitment

Western Cape

Catering / hospitality

Job Description

About the Role

We are seeking an exceptional Restaurant Head Chef to join our client’s new establishment in Cape Town, showcasing a unique farm-to-table identity centered around premium lamb sourced directly from Karoo farms. As the culinary leader, you will take creative ownership of menu development, cultivate partnerships with local farmers and suppliers, and lead a cohesive kitchen brigade.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop seasonal, nose-to-tail lamb menus alongside elevated vegetable plates that reflect the land’s offerings.

• Cultivate and manage direct partnerships with Karoo farmers and organic produce suppliers.

• Lead the kitchen brigade, setting tone, hiring with intention, mentoring generously, and maintaining high standards.

• Oversee food costing, wastage management, and full HACCP compliance.

• Contribute to the broader brand identity through menu presentation, description, and guest experience.

Requirements

• Minimum 5 years of senior chef experience in a kitchen with serious culinary intent (fine dining, modern bistro, or farm-to-table environments).

• Demonstrated nose-to-tail lamb expertise: thorough understanding of the ingredient, its full utilisation, and thoughtful menu building.

• Natural ability to create composed, restrained, and visually considered dishes without being fussy.

• Proven people leadership skills: building a cohesive brigade, developing junior team members, and maintaining high standards through calm consistency.

• Sound commercial acumen: working knowledge of food costing, menu pricing, and running a high-performing kitchen.

• Genuine connection to local and seasonal produce with existing or cultivatable relationships with artisan and farm-direct suppliers.

Qualifications

None specified

Salary & Benefits

Not mentioned

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How to Apply

Click the green “Go Apply” button below to apply directly online with the employer.

About Catering / hospitality Jobs in Western Cape

The Western Cape, with its stunning natural beauty and thriving economy, presents an exciting career landscape for those interested in the hospitality and catering industry. Typically, this sector is driven by tourism, offering a wide range of job opportunities across various establishments, from boutique hotels to fine dining restaurants.

Generally, salaries in the hospitality sector can vary widely depending on factors such as experience, company size, and industry sector. Typically, entry-level positions may fall within the range of R200 000 – R400 000 per annum, while more senior roles can command higher figures, often ranging from R500 000 to over R1 million per annum. However, it’s essential to note that these are broad estimates and actual salaries can differ significantly.

Common skills required for a career in hospitality include strong communication and interpersonal skills, the ability to work well under pressure, attention to detail, and excellent customer service skills. Additionally, knowledge of food safety and handling, basic first aid, and proficiency in Microsoft Office software are often considered essential. In more senior roles, management skills, financial acumen, and creativity may also be valued.

The Western Cape’s hospitality industry is often driven by the tourism sector, which encompasses various sub-sectors such as luxury resorts, boutique hotels, fine dining restaurants, and event management. Financial services, technology, and manufacturing are also common industries that employ catering staff. Generally, career progression in this field can involve moving from front-of-house to back-of-house roles, or transitioning into management positions.

For those seeking a career in hospitality, there are various opportunities for development and advancement. Common career paths include working as a sous chef, restaurant manager, or events coordinator, before potentially moving into general management or even entrepreneurship. With experience and the right skills, it’s possible to transition into related fields such as food writing, culinary arts instruction, or even entrepreneurial ventures in the hospitality sector.

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This information provides general career guidance. Actual salaries and requirements vary by employer.

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