Speciality Chef - Italian Cuisine

Are you a master of craft? Do you thrive in a team that succeeds together, demonstrating integrity and respect while acting responsibly? Do you embrace a growth mindset? We invite you to become a fan of the exceptional.

Mandarin Oriental is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the most luxurious hotels, resorts and residences located in prime destinations around the world, with a strong development pipeline. Increasingly recognized for creating some of the world's most sought-after properties, the Group provides legendary service inspired by Asian heritage whilst representing the very cutting-edge of luxury experiences.

Mandarin Oriental Makati is an upcoming 5-star luxury hotel set within the lush Ayala Triangle Gardens, at the prestigious corner of Paseo de Roxas and Makati Avenue. Scheduled to open in 2026, this landmark development will feature 275 elegantly appointed guestrooms and suites, offering a refined blend of contemporary design and timeless sophistication. Guests will enjoy an exceptional array of world-class amenities, including a curated selection of restaurants, a stylish bar, a serene pool area, and the brand's signature spa. Designed to be a sanctuary in the heart of the city, the hotel promises an elevated experience for both leisure and business travelers seeking comfort, excellence, and distinction in Manila.

The Role

The Speciality Chef - Italian Cuisine is responsible for the preparation, presentation, and continuous development of authentic and contemporary Italian culinary offerings within the hotel's dining outlets and banquet operations. This role ensures the highest standards of food quality, consistency, creativity, and guest satisfaction while maintaining compliance with food safety regulations and luxury hospitality standards. The Speciality Chef serves as the subject matter expert for Italian cuisine, bringing passion, innovation, and expertise to create memorable dining experiences.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare, cook, and present authentic Italian dishes in accordance with established recipes, standards, and guest expectations.
• Develop and innovate Italian menus, seasonal specialties, and promotional offerings that align with the hotel's culinary vision.
• Ensure all food items are prepared with the highest standards of quality, taste, presentation, and consistency.
• Oversee the preparation of Italian specialties including fresh pasta, risotto, pizza, sauces, antipasti, seafood, meat dishes, and desserts.
• Collaborate with the Executive Chef and Culinary leadership team in menu planning, recipe standardization, and cost management initiatives.
• Monitor and maintain proper food handling, storage, sanitation, and hygiene practices in compliance with HACCP and local regulations.
• Conduct regular quality checks on ingredients, mise en place, and finished products.
• Assist in forecasting, inventory management, and ordering of Italian specialty ingredients and kitchen supplies.
• Optimize food costs and minimize waste through effective planning and portion control.
• Train, mentor, and guide culinary colleagues on Italian cooking techniques, preparation methods, and presentation standards.
• Stay informed of emerging culinary trends and innovations in Italian gastronomy.
• Support banquet, catering, and special event requirements involving Italian cuisine.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient work environment at all times.
• Ensure all kitchen equipment is used correctly and maintained in good working condition.
• Foster teamwork and promote a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement within the Culinary team.

Qualifications & Experience

• Diploma or Degree in Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience specializing in Italian cuisine within a luxury hotel, upscale restaurant, resort, or renowned Italian dining establishment.
• Strong knowledge of regional Italian cuisines, ingredients, cooking methods, and culinary traditions.
• Expertise in preparing fresh pasta, risotto, pizza, sauces, seafood, meats, and traditional Italian desserts.
• Proven experience in menu development, recipe standardization, and food cost management.
• Comprehensive understanding of food safety, sanitation, and HACCP standards.
• Strong leadership, coaching, and team development abilities.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-volume kitchen environment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to culinary excellence.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work flexible schedules, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events.

Why Join Us?

Mandarin Oriental offers a world-class environment where your expertise, creativity, and leadership will shape the legacy of our return to Manila. You will be part of a dynamic preopening team committed to excellence, innovation, and authentic Asian hospitality.

Our commitment to you:

• Learning & Development. Your success is our success. We craft unique learning and development programmes for various stages in your career so that you grow, continuously.
• MOstay. When you work as hard as our colleagues do, it's important to take time off. As a member of the #MOfamily, you can stay with us wherever you go in the world. The MOstay programme offers complimentary nights and additionally attractive rates on rooms for you and your loved ones.
• Heath & Colleague Wellness. Finding the right work-life balance is important. Your wellbeing matters to us. A variety of health benefits and wellness programmes are offered to all our colleagues, globally.

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