At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and serve delicious meals on the carvery while managing multiple orders.
- Company: Join the UK's largest family-owned garden centre group with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, competitive pay, and generous discounts at restaurants and stores.
- Other info: No evening shifts and closed on major holidays for work-life balance.
- Why this job: Create your own specials and take pride in delivering high-quality dishes.
- Qualifications: Experience in busy kitchens and knowledge of HACCP preferred.
The predicted salary is between 30348 - 37092 £ per year.
Hours per Week: 20 Hours per Week Including Weekends
About Us
British Garden Centres is the UK’s largest family owned garden centre group, with 80 centres nationwide.
Founded by the Stubbs family, the business has grown rapidly through significant expansion and acquisitions, evolving from its first site at Woodthorpe Garden Centre into a national brand.
The group now includes garden centres, restaurants, nurseries, and distribution centres, employing more than 3,500 colleagues across the UK.
Despite its scale, British Garden Centres maintains strong family values, a community focus, and a commitment to providing a welcoming and supportive environment for both customers and employees.
We are looking for skilled Chefs to prepare delicious meals according to the menu.
You will cook dishes that will delight our customers with their taste and timely delivery.
Preparing and serving on the carvery.
An excellent Chef must be able to follow instructions in cooking and delivering well-prepared meals.
They must be deft in moving around the kitchen and apt in multi-tasking.
Experience in using various ingredients and cooking techniques is also important.
Flexible with weekends and able to do over time.
The goal is to help preserve and enhance our reputation so we can expand our clientele.
If you are looking for a role where you are given the opportunity to take pride in your work, where you can create your own ideas for specials and home baking, then we would love to hear from you.
What we offer
- No evening work, split shifts or unsociable hours, year-round business.
- Security of working in a well-established expanding family business.
- Rate of pay negotiable, dependent upon skills and experience.
- Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day & Easter Sunday
- 50% meal discount at any BGC restaurant & 20% discount at any BGC store, discount rates available at our Leisure Park.
Skills needed
- Experience of working in a busy kitchen.
- Creative at making dishes but also able to work to specs.
- Experience of cooking carvery is an advantage.
- Knowledge of HACCP.
- Able to manage multiple orders.
- Professionalism and reliability.
- Remain calm under pressure. Good time management.
- Level 2 basic food hygiene is an advantage.
Duties include
- Preparing and serving on the carvery
- The taking of deliveries.
- Food preparation.
- Producing specials.
- Prepare, cook, and present food quickly and efficiently to a high standard.
- Monitor portion size and waste.
- Applications close – Tuesday 24th November 2026
Chefs – Carvery in Harrogate employer: British Garden Centres
British Garden Centres in Enfield is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that values teamwork and innovation in the horticultural sector. Employees benefit from comprehensive training and development opportunities, ensuring personal and professional growth while working in a dynamic environment surrounded by nature enthusiasts. With a commitment to customer satisfaction and staff motivation, this role provides a rewarding experience for those passionate about plants and gardening.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chefs – Carvery in Harrogate
✨Get Your Foot in the Door with Walk-Ins
In the hospitality and food service game, a personal touch goes a long way. Instead of waiting for listings, why not walk into local restaurants, cafes, or hotels? Bring your best smile and a CV, and show them that you're eager to join their team right on the spot!
✨Tap into Seasonal Hiring Trends
With temporary roles often popping up during busy seasons, like summer or festive times, keep an eye out for openings as these businesses ramp up. Joining local community groups on social media can also help you stay ahead of the game: think pop-up events, seasonal fairs, or any openings in your area!
✨Utilise Your Network in the Industry
We all know people in the hospitality world, right? Now's the time to message those friends or acquaintances who might already be working in restaurants or bars. They could give you the insider scoop on who’s hiring or even put in a good word for you – it’s all about that inside connection!
✨Apply Through Us for Quick Visibility
Don't forget you can apply for temporary roles directly through our website! It’s not just about the big chain restaurants; many smaller, local places look there for quick hires. Plus, it helps us get you on the radar of employers looking for passionate workers like you, so what are you waiting for?
We think you need these skills to ace Chefs – Carvery in Harrogate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Skills:In the hospitality-food-service game, your ability to connect with customers is key. Make sure to highlight any relevant experience in your CV, like working in cafes or restaurants, and emphasise your skills in teamwork and communication. Don't forget to mention any customer service training or certifications you've got under your belt!
Flexibility is Your Best Friend:Since this is a temporary role, you'll want to showcase your flexibility in your application. In your cover letter, mention your availability and willingness to work various shifts, including weekends or holidays. Employers love knowing they can rely on you during busy periods!
Bring Your Personality to the Front:In hospitality, it's not just about what you can do; it's about who you are! Let your personality shine through in your cover letter. A warm, engaging tone can really make your application stand out and show your potential to create a welcoming atmosphere for customers.
Include Relevant References:References can make a huge difference in the hospitality-field. Consider including a couple of references from previous employers or colleagues in your CV who can vouch for your customer service skills and ability to thrive in fast-paced environments. This adds credibility and elevates your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at British Garden Centres
✨Show Off Your Customer Service Skills
In the hospitality-food-service sector, it's all about the customer experience. Be ready to discuss specific examples where you've gone above and beyond for a customer or handled a difficult situation. They’ll appreciate knowing that you can keep your cool and maintain a positive attitude even when things get a bit hectic!
✨Know Your Menu Inside and Out
Whether you're applying for a temporary role as a server or in the kitchen, it’s important to familiarise yourself with the menu and any signature dishes they serve at British Garden Centres. During the interview, they might ask about your food and drink recommendations, so having a few tasty suggestions up your sleeve will show you're genuinely interested in contributing to the team.
✨Emphasise Your Flexibility
Temporary roles often require a bit of juggling with shifts and responsibilities. Be sure to convey your willingness to adapt and take on different roles as needed. Share instances where you’ve quickly switched tasks or taken the initiative to help out your colleagues, showing that you're a team player.
✨Dress the Part and Exude Personality
In hospitality, first impressions matter! Even for a temporary position, donning smart-casual attire can set the right tone. Plus, don't hold back on your personality – let your enthusiasm shine through, as they’re looking for someone who can mesh well with the team and create a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
