At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and cook delicious Bajan dishes while keeping the kitchen running smoothly.
- Company: Join BARBS, the UK's first fast-casual Bajan food brand.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, staff food, pension, and growth opportunities.
- Other info: Work in a supportive team at the National Theatre and Queen of Hoxton.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting brand redefining Caribbean food in iconic London venues.
- Qualifications: 2+ years kitchen experience and a Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Are you a chef who thrives under pressure, takes pride in every plate and wants to be part of something genuinely exciting? BARBS is hiring - and we'd love to hear from you. BARBS is the UK's first fast-casual Bajan food brand, operating at Queen of Hoxton in Shoreditch and at a new kiosk at the National Theatre on London's South Bank for the summer.
The Role
You'll be based primarily at our National Theatre kiosk on London's iconic South Bank, with shifts at our Queen of Hoxton site in Shoreditch. Working closely with the Executive/Head Chef and the wider kitchen team, you'll cover prep, service and close - cooking BARBS dishes to spec and keeping the kitchen running like clockwork. You'll also support private hire and corporate events as required.
What You'll Be Doing
- Prepare and cook BARBS dishes to spec, nailing the flavour, presentation and portion size every time
- Lead daily prep, set up your station and keep the kitchen organised throughout service
- Work at pace during busy service without dropping standards - we're a high-volume operation at world-class venues
- Keep the kitchen clean and fully compliant throughout the shift
- Handle ordering, deliveries, stock checks and ingredient storage
- Follow food safety, hygiene and allergen procedures at all times and complete temperature logs and cleaning records
- Engage confidently with customers - share the BARBS story, talk about the menu and help turn curiosity into sales
Sites & Hours
- National Theatre Kiosk (primary site): 7 days a week, 12:00–21:00 (April to September)
- Queen of Hoxton: Wednesday to Sunday, 17:00–23:00
- All shifts include prep before service and closing duties after
What We're Looking For
- 2+ years of professional kitchen experience (commis, line cook or above)
- Proven ability to work fast and accurately under pressure without cutting corners
- Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate (required)
- Strong understanding of food safety, hygiene and allergen management
- Reliable, punctual and a genuine team player
- Fluent English and right to work in the UK
- Comfortable moving between two sites (approx. 50% travel between locations)
- Knowledge of Caribbean or Bajan food is a bonus
What You'll Get
- Competitive salary, full-time (5 days a week)
- Staff food on every shift
- Company pension
- The chance to work at two of London's most iconic venues - Queen of Hoxton and the National Theatre on the South Bank
- Real opportunity to grow with an ambitious, independent brand that's redefining Caribbean food in the UK
- A supportive, close-knit team that cares about doing things right
If you're ready to bring your skills to a brand making waves in London's food scene, we want to hear from you. Apply now - we're looking to hire quickly.
Chef in London employer: Barbs
BARBS is an exceptional employer for chefs seeking a dynamic and rewarding environment. With the opportunity to work at two of London's most iconic venues, the National Theatre and Queen of Hoxton, employees benefit from a competitive salary, staff meals, and a supportive team culture that fosters growth within an ambitious brand redefining Caribbean cuisine in the UK.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef in London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the brand! Before you step into that interview, dive into BARBS' story and menu. Understanding what makes them tick will help you connect with the team and show your genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your cooking skills under pressure! Since BARBS is all about high-volume service, try recreating their dishes at home while timing yourself. This will not only boost your confidence but also prepare you for the fast-paced environment.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to chat! When you get the chance to engage with customers during your trial shift, share your passion for Caribbean food. It’s a great way to showcase your personality and connect with the BARBS vibe.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications come directly from our site. It shows you're keen and ready to be part of the BARBS family. Plus, it makes the process smoother for everyone!
We think you need these skills to ace Chef in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your love for cooking shine through! Share what excites you about being a chef and why BARBS is the perfect fit for your culinary journey.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant kitchen experience. We want to see how your skills align with our fast-paced environment, so mention any high-volume service you've tackled before!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid fluff and focus on what makes you a great candidate for the role at BARBS.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get the ball rolling on your journey with BARBS.
How to prepare for a job interview at Barbs
✨Know Your Dishes
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with BARBS' menu and the specific dishes they serve. Being able to discuss the flavours, presentation, and ingredients will show your passion and knowledge about the brand.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to talk about your previous kitchen roles and how you've thrived under pressure. Share specific examples of busy service times where you maintained high standards, as this is crucial for a fast-paced environment like BARBS.
✨Emphasise Teamwork
Since you'll be working closely with the kitchen team, highlight your ability to collaborate effectively. Discuss how you’ve supported your colleagues in past roles and how you can contribute to a positive team dynamic at BARBS.
✨Engage with Enthusiasm
During the interview, express your excitement about the opportunity to work at iconic venues like the National Theatre and Queen of Hoxton. Show that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely want to be part of something special in London’s food scene.
