Development Chef

Job Title: Development Chef
Reports To: Executive Chef
Location: Riyadh, KSA

Job Description:

We are seeking a creative and skilled Development Chef to join our culinary team and lead the development of innovative menu items that align with the restaurants identity. This role requires a passion for modernizing traditional dishes through fusion concepts while respecting cultural preferences and local culinary norms. The Development Chef will play a key role in enhancing our menu offerings, incorporating international and Saudi cuisines, and introducing new trends that elevate the dining experience.

Key Responsibilities:

• Menu Innovation: Design and introduce exciting dishes that reflect the restaurants brand identity, integrating Saudi and international cuisines with a modern twist.
• Fusion Cooking: Modernize traditional dishes through fusion cooking techniques, ensuring cultural authenticity while creating innovative flavors.
• Dietary Adaptations: Develop menu items that are healthy, allergy-friendly, and appealing to light or picky eaters, including kid-friendly options.
• Social Dining Focus: Create and introduce shareable dishes such as mezze, salads, starters, and others to encourage social dining experiences.
• Cost-Effective Innovation: Add premium dishes with low ingredient costs but high perceived value to increase profitability and attract a wider audience.
• Waste Reduction: Implement cooking trends that reduce waste and improve profit margins, optimizing menu items based on sales and performance.
• Beverage Development: Enhance the bar section by creating trendy drinks, cocktails, regional beverages, and tea fusions that cater to local tastes and boost sales.
• Plating and Presentation: Utilize modern plating and garnishing techniques to create visually stunning dishes that enhance the overall dining experience.
• Menu Evolution: Use digital menus to showcase images, suggest pairings, and highlight popular items. Work with the IT department to include nutritional information and preparation methods via QR codes.
• Training and Development: Provide training to kitchen staff on menu development techniques, including ingredient knowledge, preparation methods, and presentation standards.
• Sales Monitoring: Track sales and customer feedback on new items to assess their success and make adjustments as necessary to meet guest expectations.
• Food Safety Compliance: Ensure that all menu items are created and introduced in accordance with food safety standards and company policies.

Requirements:

• Degree or diploma in Culinary Arts, Food Science, or Hospitality Management.
• Experience: Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in a similar role with proven experience in multi-branch restaurant management and menu development.
• Expertise in fusion cooking techniques, flavor balancing, and innovative food presentation.
• Proficiency in food costing, portion control, and recipe standardization.
• Ability to develop menu items that appeal to a diverse customer base while maintaining high standards of quality and creativity.
• Strong creativity and innovation in food design.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively with a team.
• Passionate about food trends and customer satisfaction.
• Ability to balance cultural respect with modern culinary experimentation.