At a Glance
- Tasks: Create stunning pastries and desserts in a legendary hotel setting.
- Company: Burgh Island Hotel, an iconic Art Deco sanctuary in Devon.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, subsidised accommodation, discounted meals, and annual stay.
- Why this job: Join a creative team and elevate the pastry experience at a historic venue.
- Qualifications: Experience in luxury pastry environments and strong technical skills required.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 38400 - 57600 £ per year.
Burgh Island Hotel is a legendary Art Deco sanctuary off the South Devon coast, renowned for refined dining, elegant experiences, and timeless glamour. We are seeking a talented and imaginative Pastry Chef to join our culinary team and lead the pastry offering across the estate — from exquisite plated desserts to indulgent Afternoon Tea and bespoke guest experiences. This is a rare chance to bring your artistry to one of the UK’s most storied hotels, crafting pastry that pairs classic elegance with contemporary finesse.
About the Role
As Pastry Chef, you will take full ownership of the pastry section, developing refined, seasonal creations that celebrate both tradition and innovation. Working closely with the Executive Head Chef, you will elevate our Afternoon Tea, deliver memorable desserts across our dining outlets, and create stunning treats that surprise and delight our guests.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, prepare and execute exceptional desserts and pastries with consistency and creativity
- Lead the pastry section across all services and outlets
- Deliver a refined Afternoon Tea experience with a nostalgic yet modern touch
- Maintain high standards of presentation, quality and precision
- Uphold food safety and hygiene standards at all times
- Contribute to menu development and seasonal innovation
What We’re Looking For
- Proven experience as Pastry Chef or Senior Pastry CDP in a luxury or fine‑dining environment
- Strong technical skills in classical pastry and modern techniques
- Creativity, precision, and an eye for elegant presentation
- Calm, organised and able to perform under pressure
- Enthusiastic, detail‑driven and passionate about delivering excellence
- A collaborative, positive attitude and commitment to continuous improvement
48‑hour contract across 5 days. Evenings, weekends, and bank holidays expected. Live‑out applicants must have a car & valid UK driving licence due to island location. Right to work in the UK required (no sponsorship available).
Why Join Us
This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of the evolution of Burgh Island and join an inclusive, engaged and collaborative culture. Subsidised staff accommodation. Discounted food and drink across the hotel. High‑quality, free staff meals when on shift. Annual night’s stay. Plus, other great benefits!
Pastry Chef employer: Burgh Island Hotel and Pilchard Inn
Contact Detail:
Burgh Island Hotel and Pilchard Inn Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Pastry Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow chefs, attend culinary events, and connect with people in the industry. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your best pastry creations. Whether it's stunning desserts or innovative Afternoon Tea setups, having visual proof of your talent can really impress potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to pop up. Reach out directly to places you’d love to work at, like Burgh Island Hotel. A friendly email expressing your interest can go a long way!
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and showcasing your passion for pastry. Be ready to discuss your creative process and how you handle pressure in a busy kitchen. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Pastry Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Creativity: When you're crafting your application, let your personality shine through! Share your unique pastry creations and any innovative ideas you have. We want to see how you can bring elegance and creativity to our team.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Pastry Chef role. Highlight your experience in luxury or fine-dining environments, and don’t forget to mention any specific techniques or styles you excel in. We love seeing relevant skills that match our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you're the perfect fit for Burgh Island. Talk about your passion for pastry, your approach to creating memorable desserts, and how you can contribute to our iconic dining experience. Keep it engaging!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Burgh Island Hotel and Pilchard Inn
✨Showcase Your Creativity
As a Pastry Chef, your creativity is key! Bring a portfolio of your best work to the interview. This could include photos of your desserts or even a few recipes that highlight your unique style and technical skills.
✨Know the Venue
Do your homework on Burgh Island Hotel. Familiarise yourself with their dining concepts and signature dishes. Being able to discuss how your pastry creations can enhance their offerings will show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Demonstrate Technical Skills
Be prepared to talk about your experience with both classical and modern pastry techniques. You might even be asked to demonstrate a skill or two, so brush up on your techniques and be ready to impress!
✨Emphasise Teamwork
Collaboration is crucial in a kitchen environment. Share examples of how you've worked effectively within a team, especially under pressure. Highlighting your positive attitude and commitment to continuous improvement will resonate well with the interviewers.