At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a passionate kitchen team and create amazing Mexican dishes.
- Company: Join 1910 Cantina, a vibrant Mexican restaurant with a contemporary twist.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, free meals, staff discounts, and fun team events.
- Other info: Immediate start available with great career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Showcase your culinary skills and make a real impact in a busy kitchen.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef, HACCP Level 3 certified, and knowledge of Mexican cuisine.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 45000 £ per year.
Join our growing Mexican restaurant team and lead a busy, passionate kitchen! We are 1910 Cantina, a traditional Mexican restaurant with a contemporary twist, seeking an experienced and reliable Head Chef to provide great food and showcase the best that Mexico has to offer. This is a fast‑paced, high‑volume kitchen with busy services throughout the week and especially at weekends. We need someone who thrives under pressure, maintains high standards, and enjoys leading a strong team. Experience managing a busy kitchen environment and maintaining excellent food safety standards is essential. Knowledge of Mexican gastronomy or similar cuisines is an important requirement, along with a willingness to learn, develop, and contribute creatively to our menu.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage the kitchen team, ensuring smooth daily operations.
- Prepare and cook dishes to a high standard.
- Develop recipes and support menu creation.
- Create and manage staff rota.
- Oversee stock takes, inventory control, and ordering.
- Manage food costs, waste control, and supplier relationships.
- Maintain high standards of food quality and presentation.
- Ensure compliance with HACCP, food safety, hygiene, and allergen procedures.
- Train, motivate, and support kitchen team members.
- Maintain a clean, organised, and efficient kitchen environment.
- Work effectively during busy services, weekends, and events.
Requirements
- HACCP Level 3 certified.
- Food Allergens certification.
- Proven experience as Head Chef or senior kitchen role.
- Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment.
- Strong kitchen leadership, teamwork, management, and communication skills.
- Experience managing rotas and kitchen operations.
- Knowledge of food costs, stock control, and waste management.
- Valid right to work in the UK (deal breaker).
- Knowledge of Mexican gastronomy or similar cuisines.
- Eager to learn, develop, and bring new ideas to the kitchen.
- Availability to work flexible shifts from daytime through evening, including Sundays and weekends, as well as events.
What We Offer
- Immediate start available.
- Opportunity to join a well‑established and busy restaurant.
- Supportive team and career development opportunities.
- Free staff meals.
- 100% staff service charge.
- Discounts at other sites.
- Staff parties.
- Tacos and tequila!
If you are passionate about food, work well under pressure, and are ready for your next challenge, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now!
Head Chef employer: 1910
At 1910 Cantina, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that values passion and creativity in the kitchen. Our supportive work culture fosters teamwork and offers ample opportunities for career development, alongside benefits like free staff meals, a generous service charge, and discounts at other locations. Join us in a vibrant environment where your culinary skills can shine and contribute to our mission of showcasing the best of Mexican gastronomy.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like 1910. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to 1910
Don't be shy about reaching out to 1910 directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about 1910 and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at 1910
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
