Food Specialist

Company Description

ZenZebra is creating a unique omnichannel solution for direct-to-consumer (D2C) brands, seamlessly integrated into everyday consumer life. The company focuses on offering a refined selection of trendy, curated, and 100% Indian brands. By combining digital and physical touchpoints, ZenZebra aims to make discovering and enjoying Indian products simple and engaging. Team members join a growing, consumer-centric environment that values innovation in retail, food, and lifestyle experiences.

We are looking for a passionate and creative Food Specialist to lead the development of new food and beverage offerings. The ideal candidate should have a strong understanding of food trends, recipe development, cost optimization, and commercial viability. This role is responsible for creating innovative menu items, standardizing recipes, and ensuring every product is easy to prepare, delicious, and profitable.

• Research food and beverage trends and identify new product opportunities.
• Curate seasonal, permanent, and promotional menus.
• Develop innovative food and beverage concepts aligned with the brand.
• Improve existing menu items based on customer feedback and sales performance.

• Develop recipes with precise ingredient measurements and preparation methods.
• Standardize recipes to ensure consistency across all outlets.
• Create Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for every menu item.
• Define portion sizes, garnishing, and presentation standards.

• Prepare and test all recipes before launch.
• Conduct taste trials and refine recipes based on feedback.
• Ensure recipes can be prepared quickly while maintaining quality.
• Validate product consistency across multiple trials.

• Calculate food cost, beverage cost, and gross margins.
• Optimize recipes to achieve target food costs without compromising quality.
• Recommend suitable selling prices.
• Identify opportunities to reduce wastage and improve profitability.

Qualifications

• Strong skills in Food Preparation and Cooking, with the ability to follow recipes and maintain consistent quality.
• Experience in Food & Beverage operations, including knowledge of menu items and product handling.
• Background in Food Service, with familiarity in serving customers, managing orders, and maintaining service standards.
• Effective Communication skills for interacting with customers and team members in a clear, respectful, and professional manner.
• Understanding of food safety and hygiene practices; certification in food safety is an advantage.
• Previous experience in a café, restaurant, food retail, or D2C food brand environment is beneficial.
• Interest in Indian brands, culinary trends, and creating engaging food experiences for consumers.