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Location: Moston, Manchester
Position: Head Chef
Cuisine Style: Southern African, Nigerian & Brazilian Grill (Modern Take)
Are you a master of the grill with experience in Southern African, Nigerian, or Brazilian cuisines?
Do you have a passion for bringing traditional grilling methods into a modern setting, creating innovative, bold, and unforgettable dishes? If you thrive in a high-energy kitchen and love pushing the boundaries of flavor, we want you to join our team!
Kaijah Lounge is a new, dynamic restaurant in the heart of Manchester, offering a modern, fusion take on Southern African, Nigerian, and Brazilian grilling traditions. Were seeking a Head Chef who can bring creativity, experience, and authenticity to the kitchen while infusing it with a fresh, contemporary twist.
Key Responsibilities:Menu Creation & Development: Lead the creation of a modern, dynamic menu that blends the rich, smoky flavors of Southern African, Nigerian, and Brazilian grilling traditions with modern techniques and presentation.
Grill Expertise: Master traditional grilling techniques such as braai (South African BBQ), suya (Nigerian skewers), and Portuguese /Brazilian churrasco, while incorporating contemporary twists that appeal to todays diverse palates.
Kitchen Leadership: Oversee the kitchens daily operations, ensuring everything is executed to the highest standards of quality, consistency, and presentation.
Team Management: Lead, train, and motivate a team of kitchen staff, providing guidance on grilling techniques, flavor profiles, and modern presentation methods.
Inventory & Ordering: Manage kitchen inventory, ensuring we always have the freshest, high-quality ingredients to execute the menu. Work closely with suppliers to source authentic and innovative ingredients.
Hygiene & Safety: Ensure that all kitchen practices adhere to the highest standards of hygiene, food safety, and cleanliness.
Staff Training & Mentorship: Provide ongoing training to junior chefs on Southern African, Nigerian, and Brazilian grilling techniques, while also fostering creativity and innovation within the team.
Proven Experience: At least 3-5 years of experience as a Head Chef, Sous Chef, or Senior Grill Chef with a strong focus on Southern African, Nigerian, or Brazilian grilling. Experience in high-volume kitchens and managing a team is essential.
Expert Grill Knowledge: Extensive experience with Southern African grilling (braai, boerewors, mielie pap), Nigerian grilling (suya, peppered fish, grilled goat), and Brazilian churrasco (rotisserie meats, skewered grilled items). Ability to fuse these flavors with modern culinary techniques.
Passion for African & Brazilian Cuisine: A deep appreciation for the spices, marinades, and grilling methods that define Southern African, Nigerian, and Brazilian food, along with a desire to elevate these traditions with contemporary approaches.
Creativity: Ability to innovate and create exciting, modern takes on classic grill dishes while maintaining authenticity. Think smoked meats with a twist, unique sauces, and contemporary plating techniques.
Leadership & Team Management: Strong leadership skills, with experience managing a kitchen team, delegating tasks, and creating a positive, productive work environment.
Attention to Detail: A commitment to quality and consistency in every dish, ensuring high standards of presentation and flavor.
Competitive salary with performance-based bonuses
The opportunity to take full creative control of the kitchen and build a standout menu
A supportive, collaborative work environment with a team passionate about great food
A chance to showcase your expertise in Southern African, Nigerian, and Brazilian grilling, while bringing a modern twist to these rich culinary traditions
Career growth and development opportunities as we continue to build Kaijah Lounges reputation
If you have the experience, passion, and vision to lead our kitchen at Kaijah Lounge, we want to hear from you! Please send your CV, along with a cover letter detailing your grilling experience and why youre the perfect fit for this role, to [email address].
