Chef

COLD MEZZA CHEF

Location: Lokmet Gibran Restaurant & Cafe DMCC
Employment Type: Full-Time
Department: Kitchen / Culinary
Reports To: Head Chef / Executive Chef

Job Summary

We are looking for an experienced and skilled Cold Mezza Chef to join our kitchen team. The successful candidate will be responsible for preparing and presenting a variety of cold Arabic and Middle Eastern mezze, salads, dips, and appetizers, while maintaining excellent taste, freshness, presentation, portion control, hygiene, and food safety standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and present a wide variety of cold Arabic and Middle Eastern mezze according to established recipes and quality standards.
• Prepare daily mise en place and ensure all ingredients are fresh and properly prepared before service.
• Maintain consistent taste, texture, quality, portion size, and presentation.
• Prepare attractive and well-presented cold mezze platters and buffet displays.
• Ensure proper handling, storage, chilling, and temperature control of cold food items.
• Maintain the freshness and quality of vegetables, herbs, dairy products, dips, and other ingredients.
• Follow standardized recipes and portion specifications.
• Maintain high standards of food hygiene, cleanliness, and sanitation in accordance with UAE food safety requirements.
• Follow proper FIFO procedures and minimize food waste.
• Monitor ingredient quality and report any damaged, spoiled, or low-stock items to the Chef in charge.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and hygienic workstation at all times.
• Coordinate with the Hot Mezza Chef, Sous Chef, Head Chef, and other kitchen team members during service.
• Assist with stock checks, inventory control, and daily requisitions when required.
• Assist with buffet preparation, catering events, and special functions when required.
• Follow HACCP, food safety, health, and safety procedures at all times.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Minimum 2–3 years of relevant experience as a Cold Mezza Chef, Arabic Chef, Garde Manger, or similar position.
• Strong knowledge of Arabic, Lebanese, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean cold cuisine.
• Excellent knowledge of traditional Arabic mezze, salads, dips, and cold appetizers.
• Good understanding of food presentation, portion control, and buffet preparation.
• Knowledge of proper food storage and cold-chain temperature control.
• Good knowledge of food hygiene, sanitation, and HACCP principles.
• Ability to work efficiently in a busy professional kitchen.
• Strong attention to detail and presentation.
• Good teamwork and communication skills.
• Culinary qualification or formal kitchen training is an advantage.
• Previous UAE/GCC experience is preferred.
• Experience in hotels, restaurants, catering companies, or high-volume kitchens is an advantage.

Interested candidates are invited to submit their updated CV, highlighting relevant culinary experience and contact details at [email protected]

Work Location: In person