Job Description – Cook or Chef
Employer. Mr Pilgrim Café
Location. Semaphore and Port Adelaide, South Australia
Position. Full Time Cook or Chef
Salary. AUD 60,000 to 80,000 per annum plus superannuation
About Mr Pilgrim Café. The Culinary Jewel of Port Adelaide
Mr Pilgrim Café is inspired by the proud café culture of South Australia, a tradition shaped by precision, warmth and contemporary craft. This influence has guided Mr Pilgrim into becoming one of the most admired all day dining venues in Port Adelaide.
Guests return not only for the food but for the feeling it creates. The menu is modern and vibrant and reflects the same care and refinement that has placed the world's most respected cafés on the global culinary map. Within Adelaide's growing food scene, Mr Pilgrim Café has emerged as a culinary jewel known for its elegant brunch plates, generous all day meals, colourful bowls, crisp salads, gourmet burgers, signature sweets and a respected coffee program that anchors the experience.
The kitchen focuses on balance, consistency and flavour from morning service to late afternoon. To uphold this standard, the café is seeking a skilled Cook or Chef who values craftsmanship and takes pride in producing food that is simple in appearance yet exceptional in execution.
Role Overview
The Cook or Chef plays a central role in bringing the Mr Pilgrim menu to life each day. This is a hands on position suited to someone who thrives in a busy café environment and understands that every plate reflects the reputation of the venue.
The role includes food preparation, cooking, station leadership and maintaining a smooth kitchen flow during peak hours. The successful applicant will contribute to quality, consistency and creativity while demonstrating calm leadership and strong kitchen discipline.
Key Responsibilities
1. Menu Preparation and Culinary Execution
Prepare and cook all dishes across the Mr Pilgrim menu including breakfast plates, brunch classics, burgers, wraps, salads, bowls, grilled items, schnitzels, seafood and signature desserts.
Present dishes with refined café styling and consistent quality.
Maintain precise seasoning, flavour profiles and portion sizes.
Contribute to menu refinement, seasonal specials and creative development.
2. Mise en Place and Service Readiness
Complete daily preparation for breakfast, grill, fry, salad and dessert sections.
Prepare proteins, marinades, sauces, garnishes and condiments with accuracy.
Ensure the kitchen is stocked, labelled and organised for high demand periods.
3. Live Service and Kitchen Flow
Lead assigned stations during busy breakfast and lunch services.
Execute multiple dockets with speed, accuracy and timing discipline.
Communicate effectively with the front of house team regarding dietary notes and special requests.
4. Food Safety, Hygiene and WHS
Maintain compliance with SA Health regulations and internal protocols.
Monitor temperature control, safe storage and allergen awareness.
Follow safe use of equipment and complete daily cleaning routines.
5. Team Support and Skills Development
Support and guide junior kitchen staff during preparation and service.
Contribute to a positive, respectful and organised kitchen culture.
Maintain strong teamwork and communication with all staff.
6. Stock Management and Cost Awareness
Assist with ordering, stock rotation and supplier coordination.
Monitor wastage, yield and portioning accuracy.
Report shortages or equipment concerns promptly.
Core Skills and Experience
Two to three years of experience as a Cook or Chef in a café, brunch venue or casual dining restaurant.
Proficiency across multiple stations including grill, fry, breakfast line and cold section.
Ability to prepare refined café dishes with consistency and speed.
Strong docket management and multitasking skills.
Knowledge of food safety practices and kitchen hygiene.
Strong communication skills and a collaborative approach.
Qualifications
Certificate III in Commercial Cookery required.
Certificate IV or Diploma in Hospitality considered an advantage.
Equivalent experience may be considered.
What We Offer
Salary between AUD 60,000 and 80,000 plus superannuation.
A professional café environment with a loyal community presence.
Opportunities to showcase creativity and contribute seasonal ideas.
A supportive kitchen culture that values growth and consistency.
Stable hours and long term career opportunities.
Position Details
Employment Type. Full Time, ***** hours per week.
Location. Semaphore and Port Adelaide, South Australia.
Eligibility. Must hold valid work rights in Australia.>
Salary. AUD 60,000 to 80,000 plus superannuation.
Selection Process. Skills trial followed by a formal interview.
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