R&D Chef (Hot Kitchen) cum Head Chef / Sous Chef / CDP - Toa Payoh
About Plain Meredith
Plain Meredith is a dog-friendly café in Singapore where good food, warm hospitality, and pet-loving vibes come together. We’re passionate about creating wholesome, comforting, and beautifully plated dishes that bring joy to both people (and their furry companions!).
As we grow, we are looking for a highly creative R&D Chef who loves developing new recipes and can also take the lead in managing our hot kitchen operations as Head Chef / Sous Chef.
Role Overview
This role is perfect for someone who finds joy in recipe creation, culinary experimentation, and food innovation. You will be responsible for shaping Plain Meredith’s menu by developing new hot kitchen dishes and seasonal specials, while also ensuring smooth daily kitchen operations, high standards of quality, and a supportive team culture.
Key Responsibilities
Recipe Innovation & R&D- Drive the creation of new hot kitchen recipes and menus that reflect Plain Meredith’s brand identity.
- Experiment with ingredients, flavors, and presentation to craft exciting seasonal specials.
- Conduct tastings, gather feedback, and refine dishes for consistency and appeal.
- Stay on top of food trends and adapt them creatively to suit a café dining experience.
- Standardize and document all new recipes for consistency across the team.
- Oversee daily hot kitchen operations, ensuring smooth service and food quality.
- Maintain the highest standards of taste, presentation, and hygiene.
- Manage inventory, ordering, and supplier relationships.
- Implement and monitor kitchen SOPs for efficiency and food safety compliance.
- Lead, mentor, and inspire the kitchen team.
- Train junior chefs in culinary techniques and recipe development.
- Foster a positive, collaborative, and creative working environment.
- Plan and monitor food cost, portion control, and wastage.
- Optimize ingredient sourcing while ensuring quality and profitability.
- Track menu performance and suggest improvements.
- Diploma/Degree in Culinary Arts or equivalent qualifications.
- At least 5 years of culinary experience in hot kitchen roles, with proven R&D or menu creation background.
- Prior experience as Head Chef or Sous Chef in a café, restaurant, or casual dining concept is an advantage.
- Strong creativity and passion for experimenting with new recipes.
- Good knowledge of contemporary café cuisine and customer preferences.
- Leadership skills with the ability to guide and inspire a kitchen team.
- Strong organizational and time management abilities.