At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the kitchen team and create exceptional dishes at a new iconic venue.
- Company: Join Blue Note, a celebrated live music venue opening in Covent Garden.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, staff discounts, pension scheme, and 28 days paid leave.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team in a vibrant hospitality environment.
- Why this job: Shape the culinary identity of an exciting new restaurant while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Sous Chef or Senior Chef de Partie with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 55000 £ per year.
Sous Chef - Covent Garden, London - New Opening!
Join the Opening Team at Blue Note London
Blue Note, one of the world's most celebrated live music venues, is opening its first London home in Covent Garden.
We're looking for an experienced and passionate Sous Chef to join our opening kitchen leadership team.
This is a unique opportunity to help shape the culinary identity of one of London's most exciting hospitality venues while working alongside an ambitious team committed to delivering exceptional food and unforgettable guest experiences.
About the Role
As Sous Chef, you will work closely with the Head Chef to oversee the day-to-day operation of the kitchen, ensuring consistently exceptional food quality, efficient service and a positive team culture.
You will lead by example during service, supporting, mentoring and developing the kitchen brigade while maintaining the highest standards of food safety, organisation and cleanliness.
This is a hands-on leadership role requiring excellent culinary skills, strong organisational ability and a genuine passion for hospitality.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the Head Chef in the day-to-day management of the kitchen operation.
- Lead kitchen service in the Head Chef's absence, ensuring smooth, efficient and professional execution.
- Supervise, coach and develop the kitchen brigade, creating a positive and supportive working environment.
- Ensure every dish leaving the kitchen consistently meets Blue Note's quality and presentation standards.
- Assist with menu development, recipe testing and seasonal menu changes.
- Monitor food quality throughout preparation and service.
- Manage stock levels, placing orders and ensuring appropriate inventory control.
- Minimise food waste through effective stock rotation and ortion control.
- Ensure all deliveries are checked, stored and recorded correctly.
- Maintain HACCP procedures and ensure full compliance with food safety legislation.
- Monitor kitchen cleanliness and organisation at all times.
- Assist with rota planning to ensure appropriate staffing levels.
- Support recruitment, interviewing and onboarding of new kitchen team members.
- Deliver ongoing coaching, training and performance feedback.
- Ensure all equipment is maintained correctly and report maintenance requirements promptly.
- Work collaboratively with Front of House to ensure seamless guest experiences.
- Assist in controlling kitchen labour and food cost budgets.
- Promote a positive, respectful and professional team culture.
- Support private events, VIP dinners and special performances where required.
Skills & Experience
We're looking for an experienced kitchen leader who combines excellent culinary ability with strong leadership skills.
You'll have
- Previous experience as a Sous Chef or Senior Chef de Partie within a quality restaurant, hotel or hospitality venue.
- Strong leadership and people management skills.
- Excellent knowledge of food safety and HACCP procedures.
- Experience managing high-volume service while maintaining exceptional quality.
- Strong organisational and time management skills.
- A calm, professional approach under pressure.
- Passion for mentoring and developing junior chefs.
- A genuine enthusiasm for hospitality and exceptional food.
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and bank holidays.
- The legal right to work in the UK.
- Salary & Benefits
- Salary: £50,000–£55,000 per annum + tronc (depending on experience)
You'll also receive
- Blue Note London staff discount.
- Company pension scheme.
- 28 days paid annual leave inclusive of bank holidays.
- Ongoing training and professional development.
- Career progression opportunities.
- Opportunity to join the opening team at one of London's most exciting hospitality venues.
- Schedule
Evening, weekend and bank holiday availability is essential.
Sous Chef - Covent Garden, London - New Opening! employer: Blue Note London
Blue Note London is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture in the heart of Covent Garden, where music and hospitality converge. As part of the opening team, you'll enjoy opportunities for personal growth and development while being at the forefront of creating memorable experiences for guests. With a focus on teamwork and professionalism, Blue Note fosters an environment that values each employee's contribution to delivering outstanding service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef - Covent Garden, London - New Opening!
✨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 Blue Note London. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Blue Note London
Don't be shy about reaching out to Blue Note London 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 Sous Chef - Covent Garden, London - New Opening!
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 Blue Note London 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 Blue Note London
✨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!
