Sous Chef - Japanese Fine Dining Restaurant

Location: Stellenbosch | Luxury Wine Estate

An intimate, high-end Japanese fine-dining restaurant situated on a prestigious wine estate in Stellenbosch is seeking a highly skilled Sous Chef to join its culinary team. This role offers the opportunity to work within a refined, detail-driven kitchen where precision, restraint, and respect for ingredients are paramount.

Working closely with the Head Chef, the Sous Chef will play a key role in the daily running of the kitchen, supporting service excellence while maintaining the highest standards of quality, consistency, and presentation expected in a luxury fine-dining environment.

• Support the Head Chef in leading and managing the kitchen brigade

• Ensure consistent, precise execution of dishes rooted in Japanese culinary principles

• Maintain impeccable standards of hygiene, organisation, and mise en place

• Train, mentor, and develop junior kitchen team members

• Assist with menu development, tastings, and seasonal changes

• Manage stock control, ordering, and waste reduction

• Uphold a calm, disciplined, and focused service culture

• Proven experience as a Sous Chef or strong Senior Chef de Partie within fine dining or luxury hospitality

• Understanding of Japanese cuisine and techniques, or a strong technical foundation with a genuine willingness to learn

• Exceptional attention to detail and consistency

• Calm, confident leadership style with a hands-on approach

• Passion for craftsmanship, product integrity, and continuous improvement

• Ability to thrive in a high-expectation, intimate service environment

• A rare opportunity to work within a prestigious luxury hospitality setting

• Exposure to exceptional produce, refined techniques, and world-class standards

• A professional, respectful, and disciplined kitchen culture

• Competitive remuneration aligned with experience

To apply: Please submit your CV and a brief motivation outlining your relevant experience.