Position Purpose The Chef will be responsible for preparing, cooking, and presenting authentic Arabian cuisine, with a particular focus on traditional Mandi and Maqluba dishes that reflect the rich flavors of Yemen and the wider Middle Eastern region. The role requires deep expertise in spice blending, timing, and traditional preparation techniques inspired by Yemeni and Hyderabadi culinary traditions, ensuring that every dish embodies the restaurant’s authentic Arabian identity. Key Responsibilities Plan and design authentic Arabian menus , featuring signature dishes such as Mandi, Maqluba, and other traditional slow-cooked or grilled specialties , aligned with the restaurant’s cultural and culinary identity. Expertly prepare and cook traditional Mandi dishes , ensuring the perfect combination of tender, slow-cooked meats and aromatic rice infused with classic Arabian spice blends. Craft and present authentic Maqluba , achieving the distinctive layered balance of rice, meats, and vegetables that characterizes this traditional Arabian dish. Apply mastery in spice blending and cooking timing , using ingredients such as cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, black lime, cumin, coriander, saffron, and dried chilies to achieve depth and harmony of flavor. Incorporate traditional Yemeni and Hyderabadi cooking methods —including marination, slow-roasting, rice layering, and oven-baked techniques—to enhance the authenticity and richness of Arabian flavors. Demonstrate authentic Arabian and Hyderabadi cooking techniques , advising team members on correct spice layering, marination, and slow-cooking procedures to maintain traditional flavor profiles and presentation standards . Monitor dish quality at every stage , maintaining consistency in taste, aroma, and presentation according to restaurant standards. Estimate food and labor costs , assist with menu pricing, and manage procurement of specialty ingredients and spices while maintaining efficient stock control and minimizing waste. Ensure full compliance with Halal, hygiene, and food safety (HACCP) standards , maintaining an impeccably clean and organized kitchen. Train and mentor kitchen staff in traditional Arabian culinary techniques, spice handling, and presentation standards. Collaborate with management to innovate seasonal menu items and complementary side dishes such as sauces, breads, and salads that highlight Middle Eastern flavors. Manage kitchen operations efficiently during peak hours , delivering quality and speed without compromising on authenticity. Oversee storage, freezing, and preservation of ingredients and prepared foods to ensure freshness and consistency. Qualifications and Experience Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery (or equivalent qualification). Minimum 1 year of experience as a Chef or Cook, preferably in an Arabian, Middle Eastern, or South Asian restaurant . Proven expertise in slow-cooked dishes, rice layering, marination, and spice blending relevant to Mandi and Maqluba. In-depth knowledge of food safety, Halal, and hygiene compliance standards . Excellent organizational and time management skills , especially during high-volume service periods. Strong leadership, communication, and staff training capabilities. Flexibility to work across weekdays, weekends, and public holidays as rostered. A genuine passion for authentic Arabian cuisine , cultural cooking traditions, and delivering memorable dining experiences. Level/Salary : $75,000 - $85,000 per annum Only eligible and shortlisted applicants will be considered.
