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Head Chef – Fine Dining Italian Restaurant

I’m partnering with an established fine-dining Italian restaurant in Kilkenny to recruit an exceptional Head Chef who is genuinely passionate about the craft of Italian cooking.

This is a role for a chef who lives and breathes food. Someone who respects the traditions of Italian cuisine, understands the importance of outstanding ingredients and gets real satisfaction from creating dishes that are simple, authentic and beautifully executed.

My client is looking for a talented, hands-on culinary leader who can bring passion, energy and creativity to the kitchen while inspiring their brigade to deliver exceptional standards every day.

Professional training in Italian cuisine is essential, along with a deep understanding of authentic Italian flavours, ingredients and cooking techniques.

If food is your craft, Italian cuisine is your passion and leading a first-class kitchen is where you thrive, this could be an incredible next step.

What You’ll Do

• Lead the kitchen with passion, creativity and energy, setting the standard for the entire brigade.
• Deliver exceptional Italian cuisine where quality ingredients, flavour and attention to detail take centre stage.
• Champion both the tradition and craft behind authentic Italian cooking.
• Inspire, mentor and develop a talented kitchen team, creating an environment where chefs can learn and excel.
• Ensure every plate leaving the kitchen reflects the quality and standards of a fine-dining experience.
• Take ownership of the smooth day-to-day running of the kitchen and service.
• Manage food ordering, stock, wastage and kitchen organisation effectively.
• Maintain the highest standards of food safety, hygiene and HACCP compliance.
• Work closely with the front-of-house team to create a memorable experience for every guest.

What We’re Looking For

• Professional training in Italian cuisine is essential.
• A chef with a genuine love and deep understanding of Italian food and culinary traditions.
• Significant experience working with authentic Italian cuisine.
• Previous experience as a Head Chef, Executive Chef or accomplished senior kitchen leader.
• Fine-dining or premium restaurant experience is highly desirable.
• Strong knowledge of traditional and contemporary Italian cooking techniques.
• A natural leader who enjoys developing, mentoring and inspiring chefs.
• Exceptional standards when it comes to flavour, presentation, consistency and ingredients.
• Creativity balanced with a genuine respect for authentic Italian cuisine.
• Someone who still loves being hands-on in the kitchen and leading from the front.

Why You’ll Love This Role

This isn’t simply another Head Chef position. It’s an opportunity to take ownership of a serious Italian kitchen and make your mark.

You’ll join an established fine-dining environment where passion for food, quality ingredients and exceptional standards matter.

The package includes:

• €70,000-€75,000 per annum
• Maximum 45-hour working week over 5 days
• Attractive annual bonus
• Tips
• Enhanced employer pension contribution

For a passionate Italian-trained chef looking for the opportunity to lead, create and inspire, this is a role well worth exploring.

If Italian cuisine is more than your speciality, it’s your passion, I’d love to hear from you.

#HospSenior