Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as a Chef at Zen Durham, mastering Thai and Pan-Asian cuisine.
- Company: Zen Group is a vibrant hospitality group with popular venues in Durham.
- Benefits: Enjoy discounted food, service charge bonuses, and ongoing training opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of an expanding team passionate about innovative dining and customer satisfaction.
- Qualifications: 1+ years of chef experience and expertise in wok handling required.
- Other info: We value individuality and encourage diverse applicants to apply.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Chef – Zen – Durham
Who We Are
“If you go to Durham City and fancy a bite to eat, there’s a very strong chance that you’ll be enjoying a sandwich, burger or some seriously fine Asian fusion dining at one of the Zen Group’s restaurants, bistros or coffee shops”. (Insider Media; Nov 2023).
A locally owned hospitality group with serious aspirations, there couldn’t be a more exciting time to join Zen Group. We own 4 of Durham’s most popular and exciting venues; Zen, Tango, The Rabbit Hole and Whitechurch. We are investing and expanding. Along with recently acquiring Whitechurch Durham, we have relocated Tango to a brand new venue and renovated The Rabbit Hole. We are passionate about our venues and our people and are investing in both.
What We Need
We are looking for an exciting, experienced and professional Chef to join up our flagship site, Zen Durham. You will have a strong pedigree in Thai and Pan-Asian cuisine, and be a master of wok handling.
As a Chef at Zen Durham, you will be expected to deliver our menu, show skill and care, thrive on exceeding customer expectations in a very faced paced environment and have a genuine passion for Thai cuisine.
This is an exciting time to be joining Zen as we continue to expand across the north east, and beyond.
Essential to us
- At least 1 years experience as a chef, with use of a wok essential
- Extensive knowledge of Thai and Pan-Asian cuisine, with a passion for producing premium, innovative and signature dishes
What we can offer
- Discounted food
- TRONC/Service charge on top of your salary
- Continual professional development/ongoing training
- Progression within the group as we expand
To apply for this role please hit the apply button and send us your CV and tell us a little bit about yourself. Our team are looking forward to hearing from you!
While our job adverts outline the ideal qualities, skills, and prior experience for the role, we believe in people, individuality and potential. If you do not meet every desired criteria but feel you have the skills and experience to thrive in this role as well as a genuine interest in working for Zen Group and you can demonstrate an alignment with our values, we would encourage you to apply.
We welcome applications from a diverse range of individuals and will consider any reasonable adjustments to enable candidates to perform as well as possible during the recruitment process.
Chef - Zen - Durham employer: Zen Group
Contact Detail:
Zen Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef - Zen - Durham
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the Zen Group's menu and signature dishes. Understanding their culinary style and offerings will help you demonstrate your passion for Thai and Pan-Asian cuisine during your interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your wok handling skills in a practical setting. If possible, practice preparing a few signature dishes that highlight your expertise, as this can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the Zen Group's recent expansions and renovations. Being knowledgeable about their growth and future plans will demonstrate your genuine interest in joining their team and contributing to their success.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience in fast-paced environments. Share specific examples of how you've exceeded customer expectations in previous roles, as this aligns with what Zen Group values in their chefs.
We think you need these skills to ace Chef - Zen - Durham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Culinary Skills: In your CV and cover letter, highlight your experience with Thai and Pan-Asian cuisine. Mention specific dishes you have mastered and any innovative techniques you have used in the kitchen.
Express Your Passion: Make sure to convey your genuine passion for Thai cuisine in your application. Share any personal stories or experiences that demonstrate your love for cooking and how it aligns with Zen Group's values.
Tailor Your Application: Customize your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific requirements mentioned in the job description. Emphasize your wok handling skills and your ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
Be Authentic: Zen Group values individuality and potential. Don’t hesitate to share what makes you unique as a chef and how your background can contribute to their team. Authenticity can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Zen Group
✨Show Your Passion for Thai Cuisine
Make sure to express your genuine love for Thai and Pan-Asian cuisine during the interview. Share specific dishes you enjoy preparing and any unique techniques you use, especially with wok handling.
✨Highlight Your Experience
Discuss your previous roles as a chef, focusing on your experience in fast-paced environments. Be ready to provide examples of how you've exceeded customer expectations in your past positions.
✨Demonstrate Creativity
Zen Group values innovative and signature dishes. Prepare to talk about any creative dishes you've developed or how you've put your own spin on traditional recipes.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about Zen Group's vision, their menu, and future expansion plans. This shows your interest in the company and helps you understand how you can contribute to their goals.
