Job Description

The Opportunity

The Whale is the newest addition to Merivale’s Narooma Precinct, bringing boutique accommodation together with one of Australia’s most celebrated Chinese dining concepts. Home to Dan Hong’s iconic Queen Chow, this exciting new venue will showcase bold, modern Cantonese cuisine in a spectacular coastal setting.

Set within the broader Narooma Precinct alongside The Quarterdeck and Lynch’s, The Whale brings together premium hospitality, stunning ocean views and exceptional local produce. This is a rare opportunity to shape a flagship regional restaurant within one of NSW’s most exciting hospitality destinations.

The Role

A proven Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef with deep experience in Cantonese or Chinese cuisine, strong people leadership capability and the confidence to help launch a high-profile new restaurant.

You will bring calm operational discipline, commercial awareness and a passion for developing chefs while maintaining the standards Queen Chow is known for.

You'll:

• Lead the kitchen team and bring the Queen Chow experience to life in Narooma.
• Deliver authentic, modern Cantonese cuisine with consistency and precision.
• Develop and mentor a high-performing team.
• Drive food quality, kitchen culture and commercial performance.
• Champion premium local seafood and the best seasonal produce from the NSW South Coast.
• Work closely with Merivale's culinary leadership to establish an exceptional new venue.

Why Narooma?

This is more than a Head Chef role—it's a lifestyle.

Live and work on the spectacular NSW South Coast, surrounded by pristine beaches, world-class seafood and an active outdoor lifestyle. Whether it's surfing, diving, mountain biking or simply slowing the pace, Narooma offers the opportunity to build an incredible career without sacrificing quality of life.

Accommodation assistance and visa sponsorship may be available for the successful candidate.

Why Merivale?

• 25% staff discount across 90+ Merivale venues.
• Unlimited career progression across Australia's leading hospitality group.
• Industry-leading training through Merivale Academy.
• Staff Cellar access, exclusive perks and team events.
• Employee Assistance Program and paid parental leave.
• A chance to help open and shape one of Merivale's most exciting new regional venues.

If you’re ready to lead an exceptional team and showcase modern Cantonese cuisine in one of Australia’s most beautiful coastal destinations, we’d love to hear from you.