We are seeking a highly qualified Head Chef specialising in Malabar & Ceylon Cuisine to lead our kitchen operations at our restaurant based in East Croydon. This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled culinary professional with strong expertise in authentic South Indian (Malabar) and Sri Lankan (Ceylon) cuisine.
As Head Chef, you will take full responsibility for the kitchen, ensuring exceptional food quality, consistency, and operational efficiency. You must demonstrate advanced knowledge of traditional spices, curry bases, seafood preparations, and regional specialties, while maintaining the highest professional standards.
The ideal candidate will be confident in leading a team, managing kitchen workflow, maintaining cost control, and ensuring full compliance with food safety and hygiene regulations.
Key Responsibilities:
* Lead and manage all kitchen operations
* Prepare and oversee the preparation of authentic Malabar and Ceylon dishes to a high professional standard
* Maintain consistency, taste, and presentation across all menu items
* Develop and refine menus while preserving authentic regional flavours
* Manage stock control, ordering, and supplier coordination
* Monitor and minimise food waste and control kitchen costs
* Ensure strict adherence to food hygiene, health & safety regulations
* Train and supervise junior kitchen staff
Candidate Requirements:
* Proven expertise in Malabar and Ceylon cuisine
* Strong leadership and kitchen management skills
* Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment
* Excellent organisational and communication skills in English
* High standards of personal hygiene and food safety compliance
* Professional, dependable, and capable of working under pressure
Job Type: Full-time
Salary: Negotiable (based on experience and qualifications)
Schedule:
* Flexible shifts
* Weekend availability required
Application Question(s):
* How long have you lived in the UK?
* Which Malabar and Ceylon dishes can you prepare confidently?
Work Authorisation:
* United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person – East Croydon
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £27,000.00-£29,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Company events
* Employee discount
Work Location: In person