At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our kitchen team and create delicious dishes with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
- Company: The Cherry Tree, a vibrant pub and restaurant in Olney, part of Acorn Pubs.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, free meals on shift, and discounts across our pubs and restaurants.
- Other info: Opportunities for career growth and bespoke training programmes available.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive kitchen family and develop your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in catering or a passion for fresh food cookery.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
We're looking for a talented and passionate Commis Chef to join the kitchen team at The Cherry Tree, Olney - a beautiful, recently refurbished pub and restaurant at the heart of the community. Part of Acorn Pubs, within the Brunning and Price family, The Cherry Tree has undergone a major refurbishment and is entering an exciting new chapter. Set in a stunning Grade II listed building overlooking Olney Market Place, we combine character, quality, and a modern dining experience.
Our kitchen team creates freshly prepared dishes with a focus on seasonal ingredients, Mediterranean-inspired cooking, wood-fired pizzas, and charcoal-grilled favourites. We pride ourselves on delivering great food in a welcoming environment where chefs can develop their skills and take pride in what they create.
As Commis Chef, you'll be a key part of the brigade, supporting the Head Chef and Sous Chef in delivering consistently high standards across every service. You'll have the opportunity to work with quality ingredients, contribute ideas, and grow within a supportive and ambitious kitchen team.
Our Offer
- Basic up to 12.71, plus tronc (that's your card tips that are paid into your bank).
- Paid overtime.
- Great cash tips.
The Extras
- Free meals on shift, choose from the menu!
- 30% discount for you, your friends and family across Acorn Pubs, Brunning & Price and our group including wagamama and selected airport pubs and restaurants.
- NEST pension.
- Great discounts via Perks on Tap, saving you money on everyday purchases and more.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- 1,000 referral bonus for introducing new Managers or Chefs to the company.
- Wagestream - use flexible pay to choose when to get paid.
- Weekly pay.
- Free 24-hour confidential legal and information helpline for you and your family.
- Bespoke wellbeing support offering free counselling for all crew.
- Discounted gym membership.
- Plenty of social get-togethers.
- Recognition platform with regular thank-yous.
- Superb internal and external development programmes to support your progress.
- Earn while you learn - we partner with national training provider HIT to support our work-based Level 3 Chef de Partie apprenticeships, plus tailored chef workshops.
- We encourage movement between our pubs so you can have a long-term career with us.
About you
You may have experience in catering as a chef, line cook, breakfast chef, section chef or chef de partie in a restaurant, gastro pub or the wider hospitality sector. If you're passionate about fresh food cookery, you're likely to be our kind of person and we would love to hear from you!
About Acorn Pubs
A collection of 10 pubs, 6 of which have bedrooms. Our wider company, Brunning and Price, includes 79 pubs across the country. A company with heart, where individuality, personality and diversity are encouraged. A company committed to reducing our carbon footprint, working sustainably and supporting our local communities.
If you want to work as part of our kitchen family and bring your talent to the table, apply now to be our Commis Chef!
Commis Chef - Olney employer: Acorn Pubs
At The Cherry Tree in Olney, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values creativity and personal growth within our kitchen team. With a focus on quality ingredients and a supportive work culture, we offer fantastic benefits including free meals, generous discounts, and opportunities for professional development through tailored training programmes. Join us in a vibrant, community-focused environment where your culinary skills can flourish and be recognised.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Commis Chef - Olney
✨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 Acorn Pubs. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Acorn Pubs
Don't be shy about reaching out to Acorn Pubs 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 Commis Chef - Olney
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 Acorn Pubs 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 Acorn Pubs
✨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!
