Job Description

Head Chef | Durban | Upmarket Restaurant
We're seeking a visionary and accomplished HEAD CHEF to lead a dynamic, high-end culinary team in Durban. This is a rare opportunity to shape and elevate a culturally inspired kitchen that celebrates African fusion cuisine with global flair.
As the restaurant enters an ambitious new chapter of growth, the ideal candidate will bring bold creativity, strategic leadership, and an unwavering commitment to culinary excellence. You'll play a pivotal role in crafting exceptional dining experiences and driving innovation-while growing with a brand that aspires to become a world-class Afro-Mediterranean social dining destination.
INTERVIEWS DURING NOVEMBER - DECEMBER
START DATE - JANUARY 2026
Experience & Qualifications

• Culinary diploma or equivalent professional certification
• 5-7+ years in modern Mediterranean, fusion, or fine-casual kitchens
• 2-3+ years experience leading a brigade of 8-15 team members
• Proven track record in culinary innovation, cost control, and consistent execution

Key Responsibilities

• Drive culinary excellence and creative direction across Afro-Mediterranean and Afro-Nikkei cuisine
• Spearhead menu development and seasonal innovation
• Oversee food costing, procurement, and supplier relationships with a focus on premium, sustainable sourcing
• Manage kitchen operations including team leadership, scheduling, hygiene compliance, and service execution
• Collaborate with beverage and marketing teams to curate pairings and design engaging culinary events

Salary Package & Benefits

• R30,000 - R45,000 (depending on the skills level)
• Performance bonus (based on food cost %, consistency, and guest reviews)
• Meal on duty and uniform provided
• Cellphone allowance
• Transport assistance for late finishes (case-by-case eligibility)
• Incentives commence after a 3-month probation period

To apply for Head Chef | Durban | Upmarket Restaurant, please send your CV WITH UP-TO-DATE EMPLOYMENT HISTORY AND INSERTED FULL-LENGTH PHOTO.
We appreciate all applications. However, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment, within 10 working days of the application.
Recruit for Africa is a recruitment agency based in South Africa specialising exclusively in hospitality, retail, chefs and lodge placements. Our agents are specialists in their fields and will be able to advise you and assist in the recruitment process, from the moment you apply for a job until you start your employment. Do not look any further and contact Recruit for Africa to find you the perfect employee or to secure your dream job!
Disclaimer
Personal information received from applicants will only be processed for the purposes obtained as disclosed in our privacy policy. By applying for this job, you accept that we can process your personal information as specified and you agree to our privacy policy found on Recruit for Africa website. Recruit for Africa (Pty) Ltd has safeguards in place to ensure the confidentiality of this personal information.
Recruit for Africa will only send emails from @recruitforafrica.com domain and will never ask job seekers to pay recruitment, visa or any travel fees into our account.

Skills Required