Head Chef

**Position**: Head Chef
**Employment Type**: Full-Time

**About Us**:
We are an upscale Indian Restaurant and Bar, dedicated to providing an exceptional dining experience with a blend of traditional Indian flavors and contemporary culinary techniques. We are seeking a highly skilled and creative Head Chef to lead our kitchen team and elevate our culinary offerings to new heights.

**Position Overview**:
The Head Chef will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the kitchen operations, including menu development, food preparation, staff management, and maintaining the highest standards of quality and hygiene. This role requires a visionary leader with a deep understanding of Indian cuisine, a passion for innovation, and the ability to inspire and manage a team of culinary professionals.

**Key Responsibilities**:

- **Menu Development and Innovation**:

- Create and maintain an innovative and diverse menu that reflects the restaurant’s upscale brand and vision.
- Develop new recipes and seasonal menus, incorporating contemporary trends and techniques.
- Ensure all dishes are prepared to the highest standards of taste, quality, and presentation.
- Collaborate with the bar team to pair dishes with appropriate beverages.
- **Kitchen Management**:

- Oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring efficient and smooth service.
- Maintain high standards of cleanliness, organization, and safety in the kitchen.
- Implement and monitor kitchen policies, procedures, and systems.
- Manage inventory, order supplies, and ensure the quality and freshness of ingredients.
- **Staff Leadership and Development**:

- Recruit, train, and supervise kitchen staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
- Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide ongoing feedback and coaching.
- Develop and implement training programs to enhance the skills and knowledge of kitchen staff.
- Schedule staff to optimize productivity and manage labor costs effectively.
- **Quality Control and Consistency**:

- Ensure consistency in the preparation and presentation of all dishes.
- Monitor and evaluate food quality, adjusting processes and recipes as needed.
- Conduct regular taste tests and kitchen inspections to maintain high standards.
- Address and resolve any issues related to food quality and service promptly.
- **Cost Management**:

- Develop and manage the kitchen budget, implementing cost control measures.
- Monitor food costs, waste, and inventory levels to optimize profitability.
- Negotiate with suppliers to secure the best prices for quality ingredients.
- **Compliance and Safety**:

- Ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations and hygiene standards.
- Implement and enforce sanitation practices and safety protocols.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry regulations and best practices.
- **Collaboration and Communication**:

- Work closely with the Executive Manager and front-of-house staff to ensure seamless operations.
- Communicate effectively with kitchen staff, providing clear instructions and guidance.
- Participate in management meetings and contribute to strategic planning.

**Qualifications**:

- Culinary degree or equivalent professional experience.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Head Chef or Executive Chef in a high-end restaurant, with a focus on Indian cuisine.
- Strong knowledge of traditional and contemporary Indian cooking techniques.
- Proven track record of menu development and innovation.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
- Ability to work under pressure and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
- Strong understanding of food cost management and budgeting.
- Knowledge of health and safety regulations and compliance requirements.
- Proficiency in kitchen management software and Microsoft Office Suite.

**What We Offer**:

- Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance.
- Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
- A dynamic and supportive work environment.
- Employee discounts on food and beverages.

**Application Process**:
We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. Join us in creating a dining experience that delights our guests and showcases the best of Indian cuisine.

Flexible Language Requirement:

- French not required

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Toronto, ON M3C 0P7