About the Role

At Tashas Group, we believe that beautiful food begins with people who care deeply about what they create.

As Head Chef of Arlecchino, you will lead the kitchen with intention, precision and heart. This is a role for someone who understands that food is not just nourishment, but storytelling where every plate reflects craftsmanship, memory and a deep respect for ingredients.

You will be the guardian of our culinary standards in Cape Town ensuring that every dish leaving the pass is thoughtful, consistent and quietly exceptional. At the same time, you will nurture your team, creating a kitchen culture rooted in generosity, discipline and pride.

Key Responsibilities

Kitchen Leadership & Service Excellence

• Lead the kitchen through service with calm authority, clarity and precision

• Take full ownership of the pass — calling orders, managing flow, and ensuring every dish meets our standards before it reaches the guest

• Ensure all sections are prepared, organised and set for service in line with brand expectations

• Maintain a deep understanding of every recipe, method and presentation across the menu

• Drive consistency in taste, texture and plating, every service, every day

Quality, Safety & Standards

• Uphold the highest standards of food quality, hygiene and cleanliness across the kitchen

• Ensure all ingredients received meet our quality expectations before acceptance

• Maintain strict compliance with food safety regulations and internal policies

• Lead by example in personal presentation, hygiene and professionalism

• Implement and monitor cleaning schedules, maintenance checks and kitchen audits

People & Culture

• Build, lead and inspire a high-performing kitchen team grounded in respect and collaboration

• Train, coach and develop team members across all kitchen sections

• Create a culture of accountability, pride and continuous improvement

• Conduct regular briefings and ensure clear, thoughtful communication within the team

• Support performance management through ongoing feedback, development plans and recognition

Operations & Cost Management

• Oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring efficiency without compromising quality

• Manage stock, ordering and inventory with care and accuracy

• Monitor production levels in line with business needs to minimise waste

• Work closely with the Operations Partner to meet food cost targets and financial goals

• Manage team scheduling, ensuring optimal staffing aligned to service demands

Collaboration & Innovation

• Work closely with the Head Chef Western Cape and Culinary Director to evolve menus and develop new dishes

• Stay curious and informed about global food trends, with a focus on Mediterranean and Italian cuisine

• Collaborate with front-of-house teams to ensure a seamless and elevated guest experience

• Contribute ideas that enhance both the menu and kitchen operations

What We’re Looking For

• Minimum 5 years’ experience as a Head Chef or in a senior kitchen leadership role

• Strong background in Mediterranean or Italian cuisine

• A deep respect for ingredients, seasonality and simplicity done well

• Proven ability to lead, train and inspire a team

• Strong operational and financial acumen within a kitchen environment

• Calm, solutions-focused approach under pressure

• A genuine passion for hospitality and creating meaningful guest experiences

What You’ll Love

• Being part of a company that values people as much as product

• Working within a brand that celebrates beauty, quality and detail in everything it does

• Leading a kitchen where your voice, creativity and standards truly matter

• A collaborative, supportive environment that encourages growth and development

• The opportunity to shape a team and create food that people remember — not just for how it tasted, but for how it made them feel