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Asian Cuisine/Sushi chef

HAZENDAL WINE ESTATE
Full-time
On-site
Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa

The Asian Cuisine / Sushi Chef is responsible for preparing, presenting, and maintaining the highest quality of Asian-inspired cuisine, with a strong emphasis on sushi and related dishes. This role ensures consistency, creativity, and excellence in line with Hazendal’s culinary philosophy and guest experience standards.

As a Chef de Partie, this individual will manage a section of the kitchen, maintain mise en place, mentor junior staff, and collaborate with the kitchen brigade to deliver a seamless dining experience that reflects Hazendal’s commitment to innovation and excellence.

 

Shift Structure: 

Dependent on operational requirements, including weekends, evenings, and events.

 

Direct report: Culinary Director, Head Chef

Department:  Culinary

 

The Employee’s responsibilities shall include, among other things, the following:

 

CULINARY EXCELLENCE 

  • Prepare high-quality sushi (nigiri, sashimi, maki, temaki) and other Asian-inspired dishes according to recipe standards.
  • Maintain consistency in taste, texture, and presentation across all dishes.
  • Monitor stock levels for sushi and Asian cuisine ingredients, ensuring freshness and avoiding wastage.
  • Ensure mise en place is ready for service, maintaining a clean and organized workstation at all times.
  • Collaborate with the Head Chef on menu development, seasonal specials, and new Asian-inspired concepts.

 

OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY

  • Adhere to portion control, minimizing food waste while optimizing yield.
  • Ensure compliance with HACCP standards and food safety regulations at all times.
  • Assist in inventory management, ordering, and receiving of Asian cuisine and sushi-related products.
  • Maintain all tools (e.g., sushi knives) in excellent working condition.

 

TEAMWORK AND TRAINING

  • Supervise and guide Commis Chefs and Kitchen Assistants within the Asian cuisine section.
  • Participate in daily kitchen briefings and coordinate effectively with service teams.
  • Support the wider culinary team during peak service periods and special events.

 

GUEST EXPERIENCE AND PRESENTATION

  • Ensure that all dishes leaving the kitchen meet visual presentation standards.
  • Engage with guests when required (e.g., at sushi bars, chef tables, or events), representing the kitchen with professionalism.

 

PREREQUISITES & ATTRIBUTES 

  • Strong knowledge of sushi preparation techniques and Asian cuisine cooking methods.
  • Excellent knife skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
  • Creativity and willingness to innovate with new flavours and plating techniques.
  • High level of personal hygiene and immaculate grooming standards.

 

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS 

  • Minimum 2-3 years’ experience in sushi preparation and Asian cuisine within a luxury restaurant or hotel environment.
  • Culinary diploma or equivalent professional training preferred.
  • HACCP certification or proven understanding of food safety principles.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in English (additional languages advantageous).