About the role

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Head Chef to lead our kitchen operations and contribute to the ongoing development of our food offering at Ellis' Belly, a neighbourhood café located in Northcote, Melbourne. Our menu focuses on modern Australian café dining, using fresh, seasonal ingredients with an emphasis on quality, consistency and presentation.

Key responsibilities

- Manage and oversee daily kitchen operations, including food preparation and service.

- Plan, develop and maintain seasonal breakfast and lunch menus.

- Ensure consistent food quality, presentation and portion control.

- Supervise, train and support kitchen staff to maintain high performance standards.

- Manage food costs, stock control, ordering and supplier relationships.

- Monitor kitchen labour requirements and assist with staff rostering.

- Maintain food safety, hygiene and workplace health and safety standards.

- Oversee food preparation, storage and waste management.

- Ensure efficient kitchen operations during busy service periods.

- Work collaboratively with management to improve menu performance, operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

About you

- Relevant commercial cookery qualifications, such as Certificate IV in Kitchen Management or an equivalent qualification, are preferred.





- Minimum 3 years of relevant experience working as a qualified Chef, including demonstrated kitchen leadership experience.

- Strong knowledge of modern Australian cuisine and contemporary breakfast and lunch menus.

- Proven ability to manage kitchen operations and supervise kitchen staff.

- Experience in menu planning, recipe costing, stock management and food cost control.

- Sound knowledge of Australian food safety and hygiene standards.

- Strong organisational, communication and time-management skills.

- Ability to work independently and perform effectively under pressure.

- Availability to work weekends as required by the business.

About us

Ellis' Belly is a neighbourhood café located in Northcote, Melbourne. We are passionate about delivering quality food, great coffee and a warm, welcoming experience to our local community. Our menu focuses on modern Australian café dining, using fresh, seasonal ingredients with an emphasis on quality, consistency and presentation.

Benefits

- Full-time employment with an annual salary of $80,000 plus superannuation.

- A daytime-focused café environment.

- Opportunity to contribute to menu development and kitchen operations.

- A supportive and community-focused workplace.

- Opportunity for long-term career development.

📌 Head Chef – Ellis’ Belly Café | Northcote
🏢 Ellis' Belly
📍 Northcote