We are seeking an experienced and passionate Head Chef – Pre-Opening to lead the kitchen setup and launch of a premium steakhouse restaurant in Bahrain. The successful candidate will oversee all kitchen operations, from menu development and kitchen preparation to recruitment, staff training and launch execution, ensuring exceptional food quality, consistency and operational excellence.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in premium steakhouses, grill operations and high-quality restaurant environments, with proven leadership skills and experience preparing a kitchen for a successful opening.

Key Responsibilities

Lead all kitchen pre-opening activities, including kitchen setup, equipment planning, supplier coordination and operational readiness.
Develop and implement menus aligned with the restaurant's concept, culinary standards and target clientele.
Oversee steak preparation, premium meat cuts, grilling techniques and overall food presentation.
Establish recipes, portion standards, food specifications and kitchen operating procedures.
Recruit, train and develop kitchen staff, building a high-performing culinary team.
Manage food costing, budgeting, inventory, purchasing and supplier relationships.
Implement effective stock control, waste reduction and cost-management procedures.
Ensure consistent food quality, taste, presentation and service standards.
Maintain compliance with food safety, HACCP, hygiene and local regulatory requirements.
Coordinate kitchen operations with front-of-house teams and senior management.
Conduct menu trials, tasting sessions, staff training and operational rehearsals before launch.
Monitor kitchen performance and continuously improve efficiency, productivity and guest satisfaction.

Key Requirements

Proven experience as a Head Chef, Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine or Senior Sous Chef in a reputable restaurant.
Strong experience in steakhouses, premium grill restaurants or high-quality casual dining concepts.
Hands-on knowledge of steak preparation, premium beef cuts and grilling techniques.
Experience with charcoal grilling, open-fire cooking and rotisserie is highly preferred.
Previous restaurant pre-opening experience, including kitchen setup, menu development and team recruitment.
Strong knowledge of menu engineering, recipe costing, budgeting and inventory management.
Demonstrated ability to lead, train and motivate kitchen teams.
Good understanding of food safety, HACCP and kitchen hygiene standards.
Strong organizational, communication and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and deliver high standards under pressure.
Good English communication skills.
Willingness to relocate to Bahrain, if currently based overseas.

Preferred Experience

Experience in premium steakhouse or luxury dining operations.
Knowledge of meat selection, butchery, portioning and premium steak preparation.
Experience launching new restaurant concepts and establishing kitchen systems from the ground up.
Exposure to international steakhouse brands or recognized premium dining establishments.

Head Chef – Premium Steakhouse & Grill (Pre-Opening)