At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Head Chef and lead a talented kitchen team in a Michelin-starred restaurant.
- Company: Join an award-winning West African fine dining restaurant with a vibrant culinary culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, annual bonus, and opportunities for career development.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment with a focus on West African cuisine.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative kitchen and make your mark in the culinary world.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Sous Chef or Junior Sous Chef in fine dining is essential.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
Job Description
We are seeking an experienced
Sous Chef to join the team at an award-winning West African fine dining restaurant, awarded Michelin Opening of the Year 2026 and a Michelin Bib Gourmand.
As a key member of the kitchen team, you will assist the Head Chef in maintaining high culinary standards while leading and supporting the kitchen team during service.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Support the Head Chef with the daily running of the kitchen.
- Lead and support the kitchen team during service.
- Ensure consistent food quality, presentation and preparation.
- Organise mise en place and ensure smooth service.
- Maintain high standards of hygiene and food safety.
- Support stock control, ordering and waste management.
- Train and support junior members of the team.
- Contribute to menu development and new dishes.
- Help maintain a positive, professional and well-organised kitchen environment.
REQUIREMENTS
- Previous experience as a Sous Chef or Junior Sous Chef in a fine dining environment.
- Strong technical cooking skills and attention to detail.
- Experience leading and supporting a kitchen team.
- Good understanding of kitchen operations, hygiene and food safety.
- Passion for food and willingness to work with West African ingredients and techniques.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills.
Eligible to work in the UK.
- THE OFFER
- Salary: £42,000 gross annually + £6,000–£8,200 annual bonus
- Opportunity to join an award-winning, Michelin-recognised restaurant.
- Work alongside an experienced culinary team.
- Hands-on role with responsibility within a creative and distinctive kitchen.
- Opportunity to develop your career.
Please note
This position is open to candidates already eligible to work in the UK. We are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this role.
Sous Chef at Fine Dining Restaurant in Sevenoaks employer: Cooking Europe
Join our award-winning West African fine dining restaurant, where you will be part of a Michelin-recognised team dedicated to culinary excellence. We offer a vibrant work culture that fosters creativity and collaboration, alongside competitive salaries and bonuses, ensuring that your contributions are valued and rewarded. With opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work with unique ingredients, this is an exceptional place for passionate chefs looking to elevate their careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef at Fine Dining Restaurant in Sevenoaks
✨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 Cooking Europe. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Cooking Europe
Don't be shy about reaching out to Cooking Europe 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 at Fine Dining Restaurant in Sevenoaks
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 Cooking Europe 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 Cooking Europe
✨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!
