Séf

Séf is a Hungarian term used to denote a professional chef, typically one with high level culinary training or who holds a leadership role in a kitchen. The word is a loanword from the French chef, meaning a chief or leader, and it has been integrated into Hungarian spelling and pronunciation.

Etymology and usage: Séf comes from the French word chef. In Hungarian, it is commonly associated with skilled, professional cooks who run kitchens, design menus, and maintain quality standards. The term can apply to both a restaurant’s head chef and a chef working in higher-end or international dining contexts.

Roles and responsibilities: A séf is usually responsible for menu planning, recipe development, and food preparation standards. They oversee kitchen operations, supervise staff, ensure food safety and hygiene, manage inventory and costs, and coordinate with management and front-of-house teams. In practice, the title reflects professional status and expertise, often in contrast to more generic terms for cooks.

Relationship to other terms: While séf denotes a professional chef, Hungarian usage also employs főszakács (head cook) and konyhafőnök (kitchen boss) as equivalents or closer to the managerial role in certain contexts. In contemporary media and hospitality settings, séf is common on menus or business cards, especially for chefs with formal training or specialization in fine dining or international cuisine. The term is widely understood across Hungary and is frequently encountered in culinary journalism and restaurant branding.

See also: Hungarian cuisine, list of chefs, konyhafőnök (television show).