At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the kitchen team and deliver exceptional Italian cuisine at the Royal Opera House.
- Company: Join Cicoria, an Italian restaurant in partnership with renowned chef Angela Hartnett.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, quality team meals, uniform provided, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Supportive team culture with opportunities for growth in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a unique venue and create memorable dining experiences for guests.
- Qualifications: Strong experience as a Sous Chef or Senior Sous Chef, with a passion for Italian food.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 45000 £ per year.
Salary: 45,000 per annum + tronc
Shift hours: Full Time
Set within the iconic Royal Opera House, Cicoria is an Italian restaurant and terrace bar created in partnership with renowned chef Angela Hartnett. Our food is generous, seasonal and rooted in Italian cooking, with a service style that is warm, relaxed and full of personality.
We are looking for a talented and experienced Senior Sous Chef to support the Head Chef in leading the Cicoria kitchen. This is a brilliant opportunity for a confident chef who loves Italian food, takes real pride in consistency and wants to be part of a high-profile restaurant in one of London’s most unique venues.
About the Role
As Senior Sous Chef, you’ll work closely with the Head Chef to lead the kitchen team and deliver consistently excellent food across restaurant service, terrace dining, pre-theatre menus, post-show trade and events. You’ll help set the tone in the kitchen, supporting the team through busy services, maintaining high standards and making sure every plate leaves the pass with care and confidence.
You will:
- Support the Head Chef in leading, training and developing the kitchen team.
- Deliver beautiful, consistent Italian food with a focus on quality ingredients and seasonality.
- Run sections and services confidently, stepping up to lead the kitchen when needed.
- Be calm, organised and positive under pressure.
- Work closely with front of house to support a smooth and memorable guest experience.
- Help manage prep, ordering, stock, wastage and kitchen organisation.
- Understand food cost, GP and the commercial side of a successful kitchen.
- Maintain excellent standards of food safety, hygiene, allergens and health and safety.
- Bring energy, ideas and pride to menus, terrace moments, seasonal specials and events.
- Help create a kitchen culture where people feel supported, challenged and proud of the food they serve.
We are looking for someone with strong experience as a Sous Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a quality restaurant, hotel or premium hospitality environment. Experience with Italian cooking would be a real advantage, but more important is passion, personality and a genuine love of good food.
What We Offer
- A senior kitchen role in one of London’s most unique venues.
- Targeted earnings of 50-55k per annum.
- The chance to work in an Italian restaurant connected to Angela Hartnett and the Royal Opera House.
- A supportive senior team and the opportunity to grow with Cicoria.
- Quality team meals on duty.
- Uniform provided.
- Paid holiday.
- Staff benefits and recognition programmes.
- Career development within a respected hospitality group.
- A busy and varied environment, from restaurant service to terrace dining, events and performance-led trade.
Beyond experience, we’re looking for someone with warmth, pride and ambition. A chef who leads by example, supports the team and cares about delivering food that guests remember. Apply now.
Senior Sous Chef - Royal Opera House - Full Time - London employer: Compass Group
At Cicoria, located within the iconic Royal Opera House, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a warm and supportive work culture. As a Senior Sous Chef, you will not only have the opportunity to work alongside renowned chef Angela Hartnett but also benefit from targeted earnings, career development, and a vibrant environment that celebrates Italian cuisine. Join us to be part of a team that values passion, creativity, and the art of memorable dining experiences.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Sous Chef - Royal Opera House - Full Time - London
✨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 Compass Group. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Compass Group
Don't be shy about reaching out to Compass 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 Senior Sous Chef - Royal Opera House - Full Time - London
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 Compass 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 Compass 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!
