Head Chef of new Italian Restaurant in Miami

About us

Sylvs is an exciting hospitality venture bringing authentic and modern Italian cuisine to the Gold Coast. We are committed to creating memorable dining experiences through exceptional food, warm hospitality, and a genuine passion for Italian culinary traditions. Our new restaurant in Miami represents our expansion into the region, and we are building a team of talented professionals who share our values of quality, authenticity, and excellence.

About the role

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Head Chef to lead our new Italian restaurant opening in Miami, QLD. This is a full-time position that offers a unique opportunity to establish the culinary direction and kitchen culture from the ground up. As Head Chef, you will be instrumental in creating an exceptional dining experience, managing all aspects of food production, and leading a talented kitchen team. You will work closely with the restaurant management and ownership to ensure that every dish reflects our commitment to authentic Italian cuisine and culinary excellence.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and oversee the restaurant's menu, ensuring dishes reflect authentic Italian culinary traditions whilst showcasing seasonal and local ingredients

• Lead, train, mentor and manage the kitchen brigade, establishing high standards of food preparation, presentation and hygiene

• Maintain strict food safety and hygiene standards, ensuring compliance with all relevant health and safety regulations

• Control food costs and minimise waste through effective inventory management, ordering and portion control

• Manage kitchen operations, including scheduling, staff rostering and kitchen equipment maintenance

• Ensure consistent quality of all dishes served, conducting regular tastings and adjusting recipes as needed

• Work collaboratively with front-of-house staff to ensure seamless service and customer satisfaction

• Establish kitchen systems, procedures and documentation for a new restaurant operation

• Source suppliers and develop strong relationships with local producers to secure quality ingredients

• Monitor and respond to customer feedback, making adjustments to continuously improve the dining experience

What we're looking for

• Minimum 4+ years of professional culinary experience, with substantial time spent as a Head Chef or Executive Chef in a upmarket casual restaurant environment

• Deep knowledge and passion for Italian cuisine, including regional specialities and traditional cooking techniques is preferred

• Proven experience in menu development, food costing and kitchen management

• Strong leadership and people management skills, with the ability to inspire and develop a kitchen team

• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

• Sound knowledge of food safety, hygiene and health regulations, with current food safety certification

• Experience opening or establishing new restaurant operations is highly desirable

• Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with all levels of staff and management

• Creativity and innovation in menu design, whilst maintaining respect for Italian culinary traditions

• Physical stamina and ability to work in a busy kitchen environment, including standing for extended periods

What we offer

At Sylvs, we value our team and offer a competitive compensation package aligned with industry standards. We provide opportunities for professional growth and development within a dynamic hospitality environment. We recognise the dedication required in the culinary industry and are committed to supporting our staff through team-building initiatives, ongoing training opportunities and a positive workplace culture. We believe in work-life balance and aim to create rosters that allow adequate time for rest and personal commitments, whilst meeting the demands of a full-service restaurant. Our team benefits from working in a modern, well-equipped kitchen facility and being part of a company that genuinely cares about the wellbeing and success of its employees.

Apply now

If you are an experienced Head Chef with a passion for Italian cuisine and the vision to establish a new culinary destination, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV, along with a brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience and culinary philosophy. Join us in creating something exceptional in Miami.