Vani's Kitchen is seeking a skilled Tandoor Chef to join our kitchen team. You'll work alongside our head chef to deliver authentic Hyderabadi cuisine to a fine dining standard. The ideal candidate has hands-on experience with Indian cooking techniques, a passion for quality, and the ability to thrive in a high-volume kitchen. Experience with biryani and South Indian cuisine highly regarded.
Roles & Responsibilities
- Prepare and cook authentic Indian tandoori dishes to consistently high quality standards.
- Specialise in operating and managing the tandoor, including the preparation of naan breads, kebabs, tikka, and other clay oven specialties.
- Marinate meats, seafood, and vegetables using traditional recipes and techniques.
- Monitor and regulate tandoor temperatures to ensure optimal cooking performance and food quality.
- Support the Head Chef with menu execution and efficient kitchen operations.
- Prepare mise en place and ensure ingredients are ready for service.
- Maintain exceptional food safety, hygiene, and cleanliness standards in the tandoor section.
- Assist with stock control, ordering, and minimising food wastage.
- Train and guide junior kitchen staff on tandoor cooking techniques and safe equipment handling.
- Adapt efficiently to catering functions, peak trading periods, and high-volume service.
Requirements
- Minimum 3+ years of professional experience as a Tandoor Chef or in a similar role.
- Strong knowledge of authentic Indian tandoori cooking techniques, including breads, kebabs, tikkas, and clay oven cooking.
- Experience preparing traditional marinades, spice blends, and tandoor specialties.
- Ability to safely operate and maintain a traditional tandoor oven.
- Valid working rights in New Zealand.
- Own reliable transportation.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays.