Head Chef

Job Description – Cook or ChefEmployer. Shahi Darbaar Location. St Albans, Victoria Position. Full Time Cook or Chef Salary. AUD 60,000 to 80,000 per annum plus superannuation About Shahi Darbaar. A Celebration of Indian, Mughlai and Indo Chinese Cuisine Shahi Darbaar is a proudly Australian and popular dining venue serving a wide and diverse Indian menu. The restaurant is known for its flavour packed curries, sizzling tandoori plates, Hyderabadi style biryanis, fresh naan and roti, Indo Chinese favourites, generous vegetarian dishes and classic desserts such as Gulab Jamun and Ras Malai. Guests return for the warmth of service, the richness of traditional cooking and the consistency of a kitchen that delivers authentic flavour with every order. Shahi Darbaar reflects the heart of Indian hospitality where aroma, colour and spice come together in perfect balance. We are now seeking a skilled Cook or Chef who can maintain the restaurant’s standards and contribute to the growth of a kitchen that celebrates both traditional favourites and modern Indian dining. Role Overview The Cook or Chef at Shahi Darbaar is responsible for preparing and cooking the full range of dishes offered by the restaurant. This includes starters, tandoori items, curries, biryanis, breads, vegetarian dishes, Indo Chinese items and desserts. The role requires confidence in multi station cooking, strong understanding of Indian spice profiles and the ability to manage high volume service while maintaining accuracy, hygiene and timing. The position is suited to someone who enjoys a busy kitchen and who values consistency, teamwork and authentic cooking. Key Responsibilities Menu Preparation and Cooking Prepare and cook starters such as samosa, pakora, chaat items and Indo Chinese style entrées. Cook main dishes including chicken, lamb and goat curries, vegetarian curries, paneer dishes, dal, korma, butter based gravies and other signature items. Prepare biryanis including Hyderabadi Dum Biryani, Chicken 65 Biryani, Vegetarian and Paneer Biryani. Cook Indo Chinese dishes such as fried rice, noodles and Manchurian style items. Prepare breads such as naan, garlic naan, roti and tawa or tandoor based flatbreads where required. Assemble desserts including Gulab Jamun, Ras Malai and seasonal sweets. Mise en Place and Daily Preparation Complete daily mise en place for curries, breads, rice, biryani, desserts and Indo Chinese sections. Prepare spice mixes, curry bases, marinades, doughs, sauces and accompaniments. Ensure all prep is fresh, well organised and aligned with service requirements. Service Execution Operate multiple stations during busy service periods including curry line, tandoori or grill, frying and rice or biryani. Manage multiple dockets and ensure dishes are cooked and plated on time. Coordinate with front of house regarding dietary requirements and special requests. Food Safety and Hygiene Maintain food safety standards, correct temperature control and safe storage of ingredients. Follow cleaning routines, sanitisation practices and safe equipment handling. Ensure a clean, organised and hazard free kitchen throughout the shift. Teamwork and Kitchen Culture Assist in training junior staff in proper cooking techniques and kitchen procedures. Support a respectful, calm and efficient kitchen environment. Communicate clearly and work collaboratively during peak service periods. Stock and Resource Management Assist with ordering ingredients, checking deliveries and monitoring stock levels.Follow portion control guidelines and minimise wastage. Rotate stock correctly to maintain quality and freshness. Core Skills and Experience Preference will be given to Australian Citizens and Permanent Residents. Two to four years of experience in an Indian or Indo Chinese kitchen. Strong understanding of Indian spices, flavours, preparation methods and cooking techniques. Ability to work across multiple stations and manage a diverse menu. Experience handling high volume service with accuracy and timing.Knowledge of food safety standards and hygiene practices. Good communication, organisation and teamwork skills. Qualifications Certificate III in Commercial Cookery required. Certificate IV in Kitchen Management or a Diploma in Hospitality is preferred. Equivalent experience may be considered in line with ANZSCO requirements. What We Offer Salary between AUD 60,000 and 80,000 plus superannuation. Full time stable role in a busy and well regarded Indian restaurant. A supportive kitchen culture with opportunities to contribute to new dishes and improvements. Exposure to traditional Indian cooking, Indo Chinese cuisine and multi station experience. Long term growth potential within a professional kitchen environment. Position Details Employment Type: Full Time. Thirty eight to forty hours per week. Location: Shahi Darbaar, St Albans, Victoria. Eligibility: Candidates must have full Australian work rights. Selection: Shortlisted applicants will complete a skills trial and a formal interview. #J-18808-Ljbffr