Job Description

Head Pastry Chef - Upmarket Restaurant (Cape Town City Centre)

We are looking for a

well-rounded, experienced Head Pastry Chef

to join our team at an

upmarket restaurant based in Cape Town City Centre

. The ideal candidate is a creative and technically skilled pastry professional with strong leadership abilities and a passion for precision, presentation, and innovation.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

Provide

strong leadership

and manage all operations within the

Pastry and Bakery Department

. Ensure

effective communication and coordination

between the kitchen (Back of House) and Front of House teams.

Delegate and assign

daily pastry preparation tasks and ensure consistent high-quality standards. Follow instructions and recommendations from the

Executive Chef

to complete daily, weekly, and monthly objectives. Supervise and work hands-on in the

Pastry, Dessert, and Bakery sections

. Coordinate daily operations with the

Sous Chef

and relevant senior kitchen staff. Plan and oversee

production schedules

to meet service demands and special event requirements. Develop and refine

new desserts, pastries, and baked items

that align with the restaurant's concept and standards. Maintain top-tier

presentation, texture, and flavour

in all pastry items. Ensure

guest satisfaction, product consistency, and cost control

within the pastry department. Manage

ordering, stock levels, and monthly stock takes

for all pastry ingredients and supplies. Maintain and update

recipe cards, costing sheets, and production manuals

. Enforce strict

hygiene, safety, and storage standards

for all pastry operations. Ensure all equipment is properly maintained and report any malfunctions promptly. Train, motivate, and mentor pastry staff to foster a culture of

creativity, discipline, and excellence

. Lead by example in

professionalism, hygiene, and attention to detail

, both on and off duty. Work closely with the

Executive Chef and Restaurant Managers

to plan menus, functions, and special events. Conduct quality checks, monitor performance, and report feedback regularly. Carry out any additional duties as required by management.

Requirements

2-4 years of experience

in a Head Pastry Chef or senior pastry role within an upmarket or fine dining environment. Strong technical knowledge of

pastry, baking, and dessert production techniques

. Excellent leadership, communication, and time management skills. Creative flair for

menu and recipe development

. Experience in

costing, stock control, and kitchen administration

. Thorough understanding of

food safety, storage, and hygiene practices

. Able to work

day, night, and double shifts

as required.

Immediate start date

available.

Additional Information

Job Type:

Full-time, Permanent

Location:

Cape Town City Centre, Western Cape

Transport:

Own transport and valid driver's license preferred

Relocation:

Must be able to relocate before starting work
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Work Location: In person