Chef

Connel Massyn
Portfolio
[email protected]

+27 84 848 8967

 Welcome to
Culinary
Excellence
Welcome to the portfolio of Connel Massyn, an Executive Chef who transforms culinary visions into
reality. With a passion for crafting extraordinary dining experiences, Connel brings creativity,
precision, and an unwavering commitment to quality to every plate. This portfolio is a celebration of
the journey, showcasing the expertise, innovation, and dedication that have defined a remarkable
culinary career. Dive in and explore the artistry and mastery behind each creation.

Bon Appétit!
About Me
With nearly two decades in the food industry.
I bring a wealth of expertise and a refined skill set
cultivated across diverse culinary environments. My
dedication, passion, and unwavering reliability are
the cornerstones of my approach to the culinary
arts. I excel in high-pressure situations,
demonstrating exceptional leadership in managing,
organizing, and coordinating kitchen operations. My
talent for crafting and executing innovative menus
consistently elevates guest experiences, while my
strategic oversight in staff development, inventory
control, and cost management ensures seamless
operations. I am committed to maintaining the
highest standards of culinary excellence and
hygiene, driving success in every endeavor.
Chef "In the kitchen, every

Connel ingredient tells a story, and

it's my mission to write a
masterpiece on every plate."
Connel Massyn
Succulent dry-aged prime rib steak,

My Story
perfectly seared and served with a
luxurious black truffle-infused Bordelaise
sauce.

FOOD and BEVERAGE MANAGER

Iraq Energy City Food | Iraq.
www.iraqenergycity.com
2022 to Present

EXECUTIVE CHEF
Lake Kariba Hotel & Resort | Zambia.
www.karibainns.com
2020 to 2022

HEAD CHEF
Mezz & Co Mediterranean Eatery | Hermanus SA.
www.foursquare.com
2019 to 2020
Juicy grilled chicken breast infused with
Mediterranean flavors, served with a
zesty harissa mayo for a perfect blend of
spice and richness.

CHARCUTIER
Praise the Lard Charcuterie | Caledon, SA.
www.dnb.com
2018 to 2019

EXECUTIVE CHEF and CHARCUTIER

EAT Restaurant | Hermanus, SA.
www.houtbaymanor.com
2014 to 2018

HEAD CHEF
Paradiso Italian Restaurant | Hermanus, SA.
www.crust-craft.my.canva.site
2013 to 2014
Fresh melon paired with homemade
Parma ham, topped with wild rocket,
pecorino shavings, and a drizzle of
balsamic reduction.

UNIT HEAD CHEF

Compass Group S.A | Sandton, SA.
Corporate Catering, Massmart Head Office.
www.compass-group.com
2012 to 2013

HEAD CHEF
Chives Corporate Caterers | Sandton, SA.
SAB Head Office.
www.procompare.co.za
2010 to 2012

CHEF and LECTURER

Warwick’s Chef School | Hermanus, SA.
www.warwickschefschool.co.za
2008 to 2010
A delicious assortment of grilled
meats with sides and sauces, perfect
for sharing or enjoying solo. A true
treat for meat lovers!

CHEF and OWNER

La Cerise Bistro | Hermanus, SA.
www.old.hermanus.co.za
2008

EXECUTIVE SOUS CHEF

Bluegum Country Estate, Stanford
www.bluegum.co.za
2006 to 2008

SOUS CHEF
Momo Belgian Restaurant, Hermanus
2004 to 2006
Tender seared beef atop a vibrant
salad, drizzled with a lemon and
poppy seed vinaigrette, and finished
with crispy fried noodles.

CHEF DE PARTIE
Argonaut Guesthouse | Hermanus, SA.
www.xpose.co.za
2003 to 2004

COMMIS CHEF
Rubens at the Palace Hotel | London, UK.
www.rubenshotel.com
2003 (January to August)
My Expertise
Leadership & Team Management: Direct, inspire, and manage
kitchen staff across various roles.
Menu Development: Create and oversee innovative, seasonal,
and specialty menus.
Culinary Expertise: Mastery of cooking techniques, ingredient
knowledge, and specialized areas like charcuterie.
Quality Control: Ensure consistency and excellence in all
culinary offerings, from taste to presentation.
Financial Acumen: Manage budgets, control costs, and
maximize profitability.
Inventory Management: Oversee stock levels, order supplies,
and minimize waste.
Health & Safety Compliance: Ensure adherence to food safety,
sanitation, and hygiene regulations.
Supplier Relations: Source and maintain relationships with
quality suppliers for both fresh ingredients and specialty items.
Training & Mentorship: Develop and mentor junior chefs,
fostering skill growth and professional development.
Innovation & Creativity: Continuously create new dishes and
dining experiences that push culinary boundaries.
Customer Relations: Engage with customers to ensure
satisfaction and build loyalty.
Operational Management: Oversee day-to-day kitchen
operations, ensuring smooth service and efficiency.
Problem-Solving: Quickly address and resolve issues in the
kitchen environment.
Teaching & Communication: Effectively explain culinary
techniques and concepts, whether in a classroom or kitchen
setting.
Entrepreneurial Skills: Business acumen including marketing,
brand development, and financial management.
My
Portfolio
Spanish Paella Seared Scallops Mexican Wraps
A vibrant, traditional dish from Valencia, known An elegant dish that showcases the delicate A flavorful and versatile dish featuring soft tortillas
for its saffron-infused rice and a rich medley of flavor of perfectly seared scallops paired with the filled with a vibrant mix of ingredients. Typically,
seafood, chicken, and chorizo. Cooked in a wide luxurious brininess of caviar. The scallops are these wraps include seasoned grilled chicken or
pan to achieve the prized crispy rice layer, or expertly caramelized to achieve a golden crust beef, fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and
socarrat, this dish is a perfect blend of textures while remaining tender and juicy inside. Topped avocado, and are often topped with zesty salsa,
and flavors, featuring fresh vegetables and with a spoonful of caviar, this dish offers a refined sour cream, and shredded cheese. The
aromatic spices. Paella is a culinary celebration of balance of rich, buttery textures and a subtle combination of bold spices and fresh flavors
Spanish culture, making it a standout in any oceanic taste. makes Mexican Wraps a satisfying and
chef's portfolio. customizable option.
Cold smoked Bacon Sweetheart Ham Orange and Cardamom
Salami
A delicacy known for its rich, smoky flavor and A tender and flavorful ham, renowned for its A distinctive charcuterie treat that blends aromatic
perfectly balanced fat-to-meat ratio. This bacon is sweet, savory glaze and succulent texture. This spices with vibrant citrus notes. Infused with the
slowly cold-smoked to infuse it with a deep, ham is carefully cured and baked, then finished zesty brightness of orange and the warm, fragrant
woodsy aroma without cooking it, preserving its with a caramelized glaze that enhances its natural essence of cardamom, this salami offers a unique
tender texture. The result is a flavorful, melt-in- sweetness and adds a rich, glossy finish. Ideal for and sophisticated flavor profile. Its finely balanced
your-mouth experience that adds a gourmet touch festive occasions or elegant meals, Sweetheart seasoning and rich, savory depth make it an
to any dish, whether enjoyed on its own or as an Ham offers a perfect blend of savory and sweet exceptional addition to any gourmet platter or a
ingredient in more complex recipes. notes, making it a standout choice for any standout ingredient in upscale dishes.
culinary presentation.
Ary aging, my prime Mini salami sticks Mixed greens with
steaks Chorizo
The pinnacle of steak perfection, featuring A convenient and flavorful snack that packs a A vibrant and hearty salad that combines fresh,
exceptional tenderness and deep, rich flavor. punch in a small package. Each stick is crafted crisp greens with the bold, smoky flavor of
Carefully aged to enhance their natural qualities, with high-quality meats and spices, offering a chorizo. The salad features a medley of seasonal
these prime cuts develop a nuanced, robust taste satisfying blend of savory and subtly spiced greens, topped with slices of savory chorizo that
and a buttery texture that is highly sought after by flavors. Perfectly portioned for on-the-go add a satisfying richness and a hint of spice. This
steak aficionados. The aging process intensifies enjoyment or as an appetizer, these mini salami dish offers a balanced blend of textures and
the meat's flavor profile, making each steak a sticks deliver a rich, robust taste and a delightful, flavors, making it a delightful and satisfying option
premium dining experience. snackable texture. for any meal.
Connel’s
Lookbook
 Thank You
As I continue to refine my culinary expertise and elevate my craft, I am excited to embrace
new challenges and opportunities within the culinary world. My journey has taken me
through restaurants, hotels, lodges, remote locations, and life support camps, culminating
in a diverse array of achievements. This broad experience has deepened my commitment
to excellence and my passion for innovative cuisine. I look forward to contributing my
skills and vision to a dynamic team where I can drive culinary innovation, enhance guest
experiences, and shape the future of exceptional dining.