We're looking for a skilled, dependable Cook to join the kitchen team at Vani's Kitchen, a premium Hyderabadi fine dining restaurant. You'll work alongside our head chef preparing authentic Hyderabadi dishes to a consistently high standard, across both dine-in service and our busy catering calendar. Previous experience with Indian or South Asian cuisine is highly valued, but a genuine willingness to learn traditional techniques matters most.

Roles & Responsibilities:

Preparing and cooking menu items to Vani's Kitchen's recipes and quality standards, including Hyderabadi Dum Biryani and traditional curries

Following mise en place and prep lists ahead of service

Assisting with the dum (sealed-pot) cooking process under guidance from senior kitchen staff

Maintaining portion control, consistency, and presentation standards

Supporting large-scale food prep for catering events (up to 350+ events annually)

Following food safety, hygiene, and kitchen safety standards at all times

Managing stock rotation and reporting low ingredient levels

Keeping workstations clean and organised throughout service

Working collaboratively with the wider kitchen and front-of-house team

 

Requirements:

Minimum 1–2 years' experience as a cook, ideally in Indian or South Asian cuisine

Understanding of spice handling, curry-based cooking, and rice dishes preferred

Valid working rights in New Zealand

Ability to work in a fast-paced kitchen and handle high-volume service

Flexible availability, including evenings, weekends, and catering event days

Strong attention to detail and consistency

Food safety certification an advantage