Ujjwal Bhandari
Oak Park,VIC
Summary
I am a passionate and dedicated culinary professional with over 4 years of experience in fast-paced, high-pressure kitchen environments. I am skilled in frying, grilling, and pan cooking with strong attention to taste, quality, and presentation. Currently serving as Head Chef in a busy café, I bring expertise in menu creation, recipe development, and introducing new items that enhance customer satisfaction and drive business growth. Having progressed from Commis Chef to Sous Chef and now Head Chef, I have developed a deep understanding of kitchen operations, including leadership, inventory management, and cost control. I am very fluent in English and hold a Visa valid until November 2025.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Head Chef
Pony White Cafe
09.2023 - Current
- Menu planning, recipe development, and cost control to ensure high-quality and innovative cuisine.
- Supervised kitchen staff & providing training.
- Managed inventory, stock checks, and placed orders.
- Led culinary team in menu development, ensuring seasonal and local ingredient utilization.
- Oversaw kitchen operations, maintaining high standards of food quality and safety compliance.
- Implemented cost control measures to optimize kitchen expenses while maintaining quality.
Chef De Partie
The Grace Darling Hotel
07.2023 - Current
- -Managed the fryer and grill station, ensuring the preparation and cooking of dishes.
- -Prepared and cooked a variety of grilled and fried items, maintaining consistency in taste, presentation, and portion sizes.
- Executed seasonal menus, enhancing guest dining experiences.
- Maintained high cleanliness standards in compliance with health regulations.
- Provided support in all areas of the kitchen as needed, demonstrating versatility and adaptability under pressure.
- Demonstrated strong multitasking abilities, managing multiple stations during busy service periods.
- Maintained well-organized mise en place to keep work consistent.
- Operated all kitchen equipment safely to prevent injuries.
Sous Chef
Hiatus restaurant and bar
02.2023 - 11.2023
- Company Overview: (Currently operating with different business name and owners.)
- Worked in high-pressure environments, ensuring efficient workflow.
- Managed inventory, reduced food waste by implementing cost-effective strategies.
- Maintained strict adherence to food safety and sanitation standards.
Casual Chef
Dead Man Espresso
06.2022 - 01.2023
- Preparing and cooking food according to recipe.
- Prepared meat, veg items, salad and packed ordered food.
- Cleaned kitchen premises.
- Stock maintenance.
- Pleasing customers with pleasant dining experience.
Sous Chef
The Diplomat Cafe
08.2021 - 12.2022
- Directed operations at The Diplomat Cafe.
- Ensured compliance with health and safety regulations, maintaining a clean and organized kitchen environment.
- Collaborated with front-of-house staff to ensure seamless service and exceptional guest experience.
Commis Chef
The Baths Middle Brighton
07.2022 - 11.2022
- Assisted chefs in meal preparation.
- Executed plating with precision and flair.
- Maintained kitchen cleanliness and hygiene.
- Inventory management.
- Enthusiastic learner and team player.
- Adhered to food safety guidelines.
Shop Staff (Fast Food Retailer) (Hotdogs)
Mr. Bratwurst
06.2019 - 03.2020
- Opening and closing the shop.
- Preparing hotdogs on a charcoal grill.
- Cleaning the shop surroundings
- Taking Payments Using Cash Register.
- Engaging in conversation with customers to make them feel welcomed
Education
Advanced Diploma - Hospitality
Ashton College
01.2022
Advanced Diploma - Hospitality (Cookery Stream)
Ashton College
01.2022
Certificate of Education - undefined
Xavier International College
01.2018
General Certificate of Education - Advanced Level
Xavier International College
01.2018
Skills
- Food safety
- Menu development
- Menu planning
- Team management
- Kitchen management
- Food safety regulations
- Special event catering
- Cost reduction
- Food presentation
- Recipe creation
- Leadership qualities
- Allergy awareness
Languages
English, Nepali
Timeline
Head Chef
Pony White Cafe
09.2023 - Current
Chef De Partie
The Grace Darling Hotel
07.2023 - Current
Sous Chef
Hiatus restaurant and bar
02.2023 - 11.2023
Commis Chef
The Baths Middle Brighton
07.2022 - 11.2022
Casual Chef
Dead Man Espresso
06.2022 - 01.2023
Sous Chef
The Diplomat Cafe
08.2021 - 12.2022
Shop Staff (Fast Food Retailer) (Hotdogs)
Mr. Bratwurst
06.2019 - 03.2020
Advanced Diploma - Hospitality (Cookery Stream)
Ashton College
Certificate of Education - undefined
Xavier International College
General Certificate of Education - Advanced Level
Xavier International College
Advanced Diploma - Hospitality
Ashton College