Farinata is The Mulberry Group's newest restaurant, opening soon in the heart of Camberwell. Inspired by the warmth and simplicity of Italian dining, Farinata will celebrate handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, exceptional Australian produce and one of Melbourne's most exciting Italian wine lists. It's a neighbourhood restaurant built to become part of the community, a place for long lunches, family dinners and celebrations with friends.

We're looking for an experienced Head Chef to lead the kitchen at Farinata full‑time. You'll be the creative and operational heart of the restaurant, responsible for menu development, food quality, kitchen management and delivering an exceptional dining experience. This role suits a passionate culinary leader who thrives in a fast‑paced environment and holds the highest standards of gastronomy.

You’ ll also work closely with our own farm, Common Ground Project, drawing on seasonal, regenerative produce to shape the menu and connect the kitchen to something bigger than food alone.

Key Responsibilities

Lead, manage and mentor the kitchen team, building a culture of excellence, collaboration and development

Develop and execute menus that reflect Farinata's culinary philosophy, with a focus on seasonality and ingredient quality

Oversee food preparation, cooking technique and plating to ensure consistency across every dish

Maintain strict adherence to food safety, hygiene and HACCP standards

Manage kitchen budgets, control food costs and minimise wastage through purchasing, stock management and portion control

Liaise with front‑of‑house to ensure seamless service and resolve any food quality feedback

Source quality ingredients, including from Common Ground Project, and maintain strong supplier relationships





Oversee kitchen equipment maintenance and coordinate repairs as needed

Recruit, train and manage performance across kitchen positions

Stay across culinary trends and techniques to keep the menu fresh and competitive

About You

5-7 years' professional cooking experience, including 2-3 years as Head Chef or in a senior kitchen leadership role

Formal culinary qualifications or equivalent professional kitchen experience

Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and develop a team

Comprehensive knowledge of cooking techniques, cuisines and flavour profiles

Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities under pressure

Confidence with kitchen management systems, inventory control and food cost analysis

Creativity and genuine passion for menu development

Understanding of dietary requirements and allergen management

Current food safety certification, Food Safety Supervisor qualification highly regarded

Why Join The Mulberry Group?

Farinata joins a collection of award‑winning Mulberry Group venues including Hazel, Dessous, Lilac Wine and Bar Sala. Across every venue, our philosophy is the same: thoughtful hospitality, genuine people, beautiful produce and food guests remember. We invest in our people and back them to grow.

You'll get:

The chance to shape the menu and culture of one of Melbourne's most exciting new openings

Direct access to Common Ground Project's farm and produce

Professional development and training to grow your culinary and leadership skills

A collaborative culture that values creativity and craft

Adaptable working arrangements where operationally possible

Staff meals and access to quality ingredients

Competitive salary and industry‑standard conditions

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📌 Head Chef (Melbourne)
🏢 The Mulberry Group
📍 Melbourne