Job Description

The Role
We're looking for a Head Chef to lead the kitchen at Veronica's and our Central Kitchen. This is a key leadership role where you'll work closely with Chef Hussain Shahzad to not only execute a strong, evolving menu but also build a high-performing kitchen team and help scale our operations as we grow.
If you're a creative thinker, strong on systems, and passionate about building teams that care about great food, this one's for you.
We're Hunger Inc., the team behind some of Mumbai's most loved restaurants - The Bombay Canteen, O Pedro, Bombay Sweet Shop, and Papas. Veronica's is our all-day cafe and bakery, known for thoughtful sandwiches, artisanal bakes, coffee, and a small-but-mighty wine list. The Central Kitchen is the heart of our production and innovation, supporting both current and future concepts.
Who You Are
You're a driven, experienced chef with the ability to balance creativity and operations. You're excited about building and mentoring a team, not just cooking great food. You've worked in high-volume kitchens and know how to maintain quality at scale. You have a sharp palate, strong systems thinking, and are ready to grow with a brand that's constantly evolving.
Your Team
You'll lead and manage the kitchen teams at Veronica's and the Central Kitchen, ensuring seamless execution, consistency, and efficiency across both spaces. From mentoring young cooks to collaborating with R&D, you'll help build a strong, skilled, and enthusiastic kitchen culture.
Reporting To
You'll report to Chef Hussain Shahzad (Executive Chef) and work closely with other chefs, managers, and the operations team.
Your Responsibilities
Lead Two Kitchens: Manage day-to-day kitchen operations at Veronica's and our Central Kitchen.
Work with Executive Chef: Collaborate directly with our Executive Chef on culinary direction, systems, and team development.
Menu & R&D: Develop new dishes and contribute to seasonal changes while maintaining the quality of existing offerings.
Team Building: Hire, train, and mentor a motivated team. Create a culture of learning, ownership, and enthusiasm.
Operational Scale: Build systems and SOPs that allow us to scale operations without compromising on quality.
Inventory & Costing: Oversee food costing, stock control, and ordering for both kitchens.
Quality & Consistency: Ensure high standards in food prep, execution, and plating--every single day.
Hygiene & Compliance: Maintain rigorous hygiene and safety standards in line with FSSAI and company policies.
Cross-Department Collaboration: Coordinate with FOH, bakery, and production teams to align operations.
Problem Solving: Tackle challenges quickly, with a calm and solutions-first mindset.
Skills & Experience
5+ years of experience in a professional kitchen, with 2+ years in a leadership role.
Experience managing multiple kitchen teams or units.
Background in cafe, bakery, or all-day dining concepts is a plus.
Strong people management and team-building skills.
Familiar with setting up or scaling kitchen systems and operations.
Culinary degree or equivalent hands-on experience.
Excellent communication and leadership skills.
Confident in managing costs, inventory, and production schedules.
Comfortable using digital tools (POS, inventory software, spreadsheets).
What You'll Get
The opportunity to lead two fast-growing kitchen operations in one of Mumbai's most exciting hospitality companies.
Direct mentorship from Chef Hussain Shahzad.
A platform to create new dishes and shape a menu that evolves with the seasons.
The chance to build and mentor a talented team from the ground up.
A collaborative, supportive environment where your ideas are valued.
Opportunities to grow as we continue expanding. Recognition for your leadership, creativity, and attention to detail

Skills Required