At a Glance
- Tasks: Create and cook high-quality dishes in a vibrant kitchen environment.
- Company: Join Balfour Winery, a celebrated wine estate known for exceptional hospitality.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, training opportunities, staff discounts, and a supportive team.
- Other info: Enjoy clear progression opportunities in a dynamic kitchen.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team and thrive in a beautiful setting.
- Qualifications: A love for food and teamwork; experience welcome but not required.
The predicted salary is between 22000 - 27000 £ per year.
Balfour Winery is one of England's most celebrated wine estates, known for award-winning wines, exceptional hospitality, and a commitment to creating memorable experiences for every guest. We're expanding our kitchen team and are looking for passionate chefs of any level - from Commis to Sous - who want to grow, create, and thrive in a beautiful, fast-paced environment.
The Role
You'll be part of a dynamic, supportive kitchen team producing high-quality dishes for our restaurant, events, and seasonal experiences. Whether you're early in your career or already established, we're looking for chefs who bring energy, creativity, and pride to their work.
What You'll Do
- Prepare and cook dishes to a high standard, following our menus and brand style
- Work closely with the Head Chef and wider team to deliver exceptional food service
- Maintain excellent kitchen hygiene and food safety standards
- Contribute ideas, support menu development, and help drive consistency
- Assist with stock control, prep, and daily kitchen operations
What We're Looking For
- A genuine passion for food, flavour, and presentation
- Strong teamwork and communication skills
- Reliability, professionalism, and a positive attitude
- Ability to work calmly and efficiently during busy service
- Experience in a professional kitchen (any level welcome - training provided)
What We Offer
- Competitive pay based on experience
- Training, development, and clear progression opportunities
- A supportive, friendly team environment
- Staff discounts across the winery
- The chance to work in one of England's most beautiful hospitality settings
Chef - all levels in Staplehurst employer: Balfour at Bow
At The Winemaker’s Pub, part of Balfour Winery, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that values quality, creativity, and a strong sense of community. Located in the picturesque village of Goudhurst, our work culture is homely and informal, offering flexible hours and generous benefits such as a 35% discount across all Balfour sites and access to Wage Stream for financial peace of mind. We are committed to employee growth, encouraging our team members to share their culinary knowledge while enjoying the rewarding experience of working in a vibrant environment centred around British cooking and fine English wine.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef - all levels in Staplehurst
✨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 Balfour at Bow. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Balfour at Bow
Don't be shy about reaching out to Balfour at Bow 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 Chef - all levels in Staplehurst
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 Balfour at Bow 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 Balfour at Bow
✨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!
