Head Chef – Vegan Café / Restaurant

Location: Pondicherry, India

Job Type: Full-time, Onsite

Reports To: Founder / General Manager

Experience: 4+ years in professional kitchens, 1+ years in vegan or plant-based cuisine, prior leadership or senior line cook experience preferred

About Us

Maroma is starting a vibrant, plant-powered café and restaurant located in the heart of Pondicherry. Our vision is to bring people together through fresh, seasonal and globally inspired vegan cuisine. We champion sustainability, locally sourced ingredients and soulful, nourishing food in a relaxed and creative space.

Role Overview

We’re looking for a passionate and experienced Head Chef to lead our kitchen operations, mentor a small team and shape a wholesome, innovative menu that excites both regulars and first-timers. This is a hands-on leadership role where culinary creativity meets operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Menu Creation & Culinary Innovation

• Design a seasonal, vegan-forward menu (all-day café fare, weekly specials, and beverages)
•  Incorporate local ingredients with global inspirations to create balanced, flavour-rich dishes
•  Ensure consistency, plating quality and taste across all service periods

Kitchen Operations & Workflow

•  Oversee prep, production, inventory and hygiene standards (FSSAI compliant)
• Implement effective systems for stock rotation, waste management and portion control
• Coordinate and streamline kitchen activities for smooth service

Team Leadership & Development

• Recruit, train and supervise junior chefs and kitchen assistants
• Foster a collaborative, respectful and productive kitchen culture
• Lead by example and take charge of line cooking, during peak service hours and special events

Sourcing & Sustainability

• Collaborate with local farmers and ethical vendors to source fresh produce
• Champion low-waste, sustainable cooking practices
• Manage food costs while maintaining quality and integrity

What We’re Looking For

• Minimum 4 years of experience in professional kitchens
• At least 1 year of hands-on experience in vegan or vegetarian cuisine
• Strong leadership, organization and team-building abilities
• Working knowledge of kitchen hygiene, recipe costing and operational systems
• Deep passion for plant-based food, mindful eating and culinary storytelling
• Candidates currently based in India will be prioritized / preferred.

Bonus Points For

• Experience with gluten-free, refined sugar-free or health-forward cuisine
• Familiarity with Tamil Nadu produce and/or Auroville’s food network
• Interest in nutrition or wellness cuisine

What We Offer

1. Competitive salary based on experience + performance-based incentives
2. Daily staff meals while on duty
3. Growth opportunities in a mission-driven, values-led hospitality venture
4. Work-life balance in a scenic and mindful community setting

Ready to co-create something meaningful?

Apply now and bring your culinary vision to life with Maroma.

Send your Cv and cover letter to Maroma@maroma.com