At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and cook vibrant Latin American dishes in a fast-paced kitchen.
- Company: Join the lively team at Las Iguanas, where food brings the party to life.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, amazing discounts, and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with celebrations, competitions, and perks galore!
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive kitchen family and unleash your passion for food.
- Qualifications: A love for cooking and teamwork; experience is a bonus but not essential.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
Join Our South American Adventure as a Chef at Las Iguanas, where our food brings the party to life. Inspired by the bold, vibrant flavours of Latin America, our kitchens focus on fresh ingredients, energetic teamwork, and a serious passion for flavour. As a Chef, you’ll be at the heart of the action preparing and cooking dishes that are packed with colour and personality, maintaining high standards, and working as part of a close kitchen team that thrives in a fast-paced environment.
Every service is about precision, pride, and keeping the energy high. We’re looking for a Chef who loves cooking great food, works well under pressure, and enjoys being part of a lively, supportive team. Whether you’re developing your skills or bringing solid experience, we value attitude, teamwork, and a real love for what you do.
If you’re ready to sharpen your craft, work with bold flavours, and be part of a kitchen that feels more like a family than a workplace, Las Iguanas is the place to be.
Why Join Las Iguanas?
- Hourly pay and opportunity to earn Tronc.
- A Place for Everyone – We celebrate individuality and believe our differences make us stronger.
- Amazing Discounts – 50% off food and drink across all Big Table Group brands and 25% for friends & family.
- Flexible Working – Negotiable contracts to suit your lifestyle.
- Career Growth – Fully funded Production Chef Level 2 apprenticeships and development programs.
- Perks & Rewards – Access to wages before payday, salary finance support, healthcare cash plan, dental plan, discounted gym memberships, and savings on theme parks, shopping, and entertainment.
- Team Celebrations – Competitions, team parties, and even a chance to win e-points to spend on your favourite retailers.
What You’ll Do as a Chef
- Organise, coordinate, and deliver service across one or more sections in our fast-paced kitchen.
- Work closely with the kitchen team to produce delicious dishes to specification.
- Support and guide kitchen assistants and porters.
- Ensure your section is prepped and organised for service.
- Maintain a spotless kitchen, ensuring the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
Who We’re Looking For
If you love food, enjoy working as part of a team, and thrive in a fast-paced kitchen environment, you could be exactly who we’re looking for. At Las Iguanas, our kitchens are the heartbeat of the restaurant. From prepping fresh ingredients to cooking dishes our guests love, you’ll play a key role in delivering great food, every time.
You’ll be part of a supportive, friendly team where you can learn new skills, build confidence, and take pride in what you do. We’re proud to be an inclusive workplace where everyone belongs. If you need any reasonable adjustments during the hiring process, just let us know – we’re always happy to help.
Thinking about using AI tools for your application? They can help you get started, but what really stands out to us is you – your enthusiasm, teamwork, and willingness to get stuck in.
What’s the Process
Application > CV review > interview > offer and onboarding. You don’t need loads of experience, just a genuine love for food, a positive attitude, and a great team mindset. If you enjoy working behind the scenes to create something special on the plate, we’d love to welcome you into the kitchen. Apply now and bring your passion to the Las Iguanas kitchen!
Chef - Las Iguanas York employer: Big Table Group
Las Iguanas is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture, where teamwork and passion for food are at the forefront. With flexible working options, career growth opportunities through fully funded apprenticeships, and generous perks like discounts and free meals, our chefs thrive in a supportive environment that feels more like family than just a workplace. Join us in York to be part of a culinary adventure that celebrates individuality and creativity while delivering bold flavours to our guests.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef - Las Iguanas York
✨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 Big Table Group. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Big Table Group
Don't be shy about reaching out to Big Table Group 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 - Las Iguanas York
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 Big Table Group 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 Big Table Group
✨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!
