Chef - Full Time/Permanent

About the Company

Mandi Al Amoodi, located in Deer Park (VIC 3023), is a proud part of Al Amoodi Group Pty Ltd. We are dedicated to bringing the authentic flavours of the Middle East to our community, with a focus on traditional Yemeni Mandi and other Halal specialties.Our restaurant has quickly become a favourite destination for families and food lovers seeking generous portions, rich spices, and genuine hospitality. From slow-cooked meats and fragrant rice to freshly prepared sides and desserts, our menu celebrates authentic recipes crafted with care and passion.We are now seeking a skilled and motivated Chef to join our growing team and play an essential role in delivering high-quality dining experiences that stay true to our cultural roots.

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 chillies 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 flavours.
• Demonstrate authentic Arabian and Hyderabadi cooking techniques, advising team members on correct spice layering, marination, and slow-cooking procedures to maintain traditional flavour 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 flavours.
• 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.

What We’re Looking For

• Minimum 1–2 years’ experience as a Chef or Cook in a restaurant or hospitality environment (experience with Middle Eastern cuisine highly regarded).
• Strong skills in preparing rice, grilled meats, and slow-cooked dishes with attention to traditional flavours and techniques.
• Knowledge of food safety standards (HACCP) and safe kitchen practices.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment while maintaining consistency and quality.
• Good organisational and time management skills, particularly during peak dining hours.
• A positive team player with strong communication and problem-solving skills.
• Flexibility to work across weekdays, weekends, and public holidays as rostered.
• A passion for authentic food and a commitment to delivering memorable dining experiences.
• Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery (or equivalent qualification).