At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a busy kitchen, create seasonal menus, and manage a talented team.
- Company: Independent French bistro group with a loyal local following.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonus, staff meals, and discounts.
- Other info: Supportive owners and excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make your mark on the menu and lead a passionate kitchen team.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef or strong Sous Chef ready to step up.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 50000 £ per year.
Head Chef – French Bistro, Surbiton About us Bordelaise is an independent French bistro group with sites in Surbiton and Ewell, built on ten years of trading at Tooting Broadway Market.
We cook classic French bistro food with honesty and care, using good ingredients and proper technique, and we're proud of our loyal local following.
The role We're looking for a Head Chef to lead the kitchen at Bordelaise Surbiton on Maple Road.
You'll own the kitchen day to day, from menu development and ordering to running the pass and developing your team.
You'll work closely with the directors and have real input into the direction of the food.
What you'll do Run a busy bistro kitchen across lunch and dinner service Develop seasonal menus and specials rooted in French bistro cooking Manage GP, ordering, stock control and supplier relationships Lead, train and motivate the kitchen brigade Maintain excellent food hygiene and safety standards (we expect a 5-star rating) Help with rotas, prep systems and consistency across the group What we're looking for Experience as a Head Chef or a strong Sous Chef ready to step up A solid grounding in French or classical European cooking Calm, organised leadership under pressure A good grasp of costing, GP and kitchen admin Level 2 Food Hygiene or above (Level 3 preferred) Right to work in the UK What we offer £45,000–£50,000 per year, including service charge Performance bonus on top Creative input into menus within an independent, growing group Staff meals and staff discount across both sites Paid holiday and workplace pension Supportive owners who are hands-on and easy to reach How to apply Send your CV and a short note about your cooking style and recent roles.
We'll be in touch with shortlisted candidates for a chat and a trial shift.
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Head Chef employer: Bordelaise Surbiton
Bordelaise is an excellent employer for those passionate about French bistro cooking, offering a supportive and low-ego kitchen culture in the vibrant neighbourhoods of Surbiton and Ewell. With competitive pay, staff meals, and generous discounts, we prioritise employee growth and development within our close-knit team, making it a rewarding place to advance your culinary career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef
✨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 Bordelaise Surbiton. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Bordelaise Surbiton
Don't be shy about reaching out to Bordelaise Surbiton 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 Head Chef
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 Bordelaise Surbiton 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 Bordelaise Surbiton
✨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!
