Head Chef - Continental & Café Cuisine

AquaBrew is seeking an experienced and innovative Head Chef to lead its kitchen operations at the DHA Phase 8 location in Lahore. The ideal candidate will be responsible for maintaining high standards of food quality and consistency while managing and motivating the kitchen team. This full-time role offers a competitive monthly salary ranging from PKR 80,000 to 100,000, based on experience and expertise. The Head Chef will play a key role in menu development, operational efficiency, and ensuring a seamless dining experience for customers.

Key Responsibilities:
- Oversee daily kitchen operations to ensure smooth and efficient service.
- Lead, train, and supervise cooks and kitchen staff, fostering discipline and teamwork.
- Develop, standardize, and maintain recipes, portion sizes, plating standards, and overall food quality.
- Manage food preparation, kitchen workflow, and timely execution of orders.
- Monitor inventory levels, food costs, portion control, and minimize wastage.
- Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene, cleanliness, and kitchen standard operating procedures (SOPs).
- Maintain kitchen equipment, utensils, and crockery, ensuring proper handling and upkeep.
- Recruit and train kitchen staff as needed, and organize shift coverage and backups.
- Collaborate with management to develop new dishes, improve existing menu items, and conduct menu tastings.
- Maintain kitchen schedules, staff attendance, shifts, and weekly offs.
- Coordinate with management on menu planning, operational challenges, cost control, and overall kitchen performance.

Required Qualifications:
- Proven experience as a Head Chef, Head Cook, or Senior Chef, preferably within a café, restaurant, or casual dining environment.
- Strong expertise in continental cuisine and café-style food preparation.
- Excellent knowledge of food preparation techniques, kitchen management, hygiene standards, and inventory control.
- Demonstrated ability to lead a team, work effectively under pressure, and maintain consistent food quality during peak service hours.
- Hands-on leadership style with the ability to train staff and take full ownership of kitchen operations.
- Bachelor's degree (required).
- Minimum of 2 years’ experience as a Head Chef or Senior Chef (required).
- Must be based in Lahore and able to work on-site.

Preferred Qualifications and Benefits:
While not explicitly stated, candidates with a creative approach to menu development and strong communication skills will be highly valued. The position offers an opportunity to work in a dynamic environment with scope for professional growth and contribution to the brand’s culinary identity.

Applicants will be asked to provide information about their current workplace, current salary, and salary expectations as part of the application process.

This role requires full-time, in-person commitment at the AquaBrew location in Lahore.