At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a busy kitchen, ensuring quality and efficiency in food service.
- Company: Dan & Decarlo, a beloved independent coffee shop in East Finchley.
- Benefits: Starting wage of £14.50, free food on shift, and tips.
- Other info: Enjoy a stable environment with early finishes and balanced shifts.
- Why this job: Take ownership of a kitchen and make a real impact on our community.
- Qualifications: Minimum 2 years' experience in a similar role and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 14.5 - 16 £ per hour.
We're looking for a reliable and experienced chef to lead the kitchen at Dan & Decarlo, a busy independent coffee shop in East Finchley. At Dan & Decarlo we pride ourselves on serving the very best traditional breakfasts, sandwiches, alongside our speciality coffee, pastries, and cakes. This is a hands‐on role for someone who can take full ownership of the kitchen, maintain high standards, and keep service running smoothly day to day.
The Role
You will be responsible for the full day‐to‐day running of the kitchen, ensuring consistency, quality, and efficiency across all areas.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee daily kitchen operations and service.
- Manage and lead the kitchen team.
- Ensure food quality, consistency, and presentation standards.
- Plan and manage staff rotas.
- Control stock, ordering, and supplier relationships.
- Monitor and manage food costs and wastage.
- Maintain cleanliness and organisation of the kitchen.
- Ensure all food safety, hygiene, and HACCP standards are met.
- Train, develop, and support kitchen staff.
- Manage prep schedules and service flow.
- Handle equipment maintenance and report issues.
- Work closely with front‐of‐house to ensure smooth service.
- Drive efficiency and improve kitchen processes.
Requirements
- Minimum 2 years' experience in a similar Kitchen Manager or Senior Chef role.
- Strong leadership and organisational skills.
- Ability to work in a fast‐paced environment.
- Good understanding of food safety and kitchen compliance.
- Reliable, proactive, and hands‐on approach.
What We Offer
- £14.50 starting wage.
- Free food & drink on shift.
- Stable, structured working environment.
- Support from ownership and management.
- Opportunity to take real ownership of a kitchen.
- Share of TRONC.
- Early finishes and balanced shift patterns.
If you're someone who takes pride in running a tight, efficient kitchen, we'd like to hear from you. Apply now with your CV and a short introduction.
About Dan & Decarlo: Dan and Decarlo is an independent family run Cafe in the heart of East Finchley serving delicious brunch & coffee since 2009!
Chef Kitchen Manager - Permanent Full-time in London employer: Dan & Decarlo
At Dan & Decarlo, we offer a vibrant and supportive work environment where you can truly take ownership of your kitchen. As a family-run café in East Finchley, we pride ourselves on our commitment to quality and community, providing our team with opportunities for growth, a balanced work-life with early finishes, and the chance to enjoy free food and drink during shifts. Join us to be part of a passionate team dedicated to serving the best brunch and coffee while enjoying the benefits of good tips and a premium Spotify subscription.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef Kitchen Manager - Permanent Full-time in 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 Dan & Decarlo. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Dan & Decarlo
Don't be shy about reaching out to Dan & Decarlo 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 Chef Kitchen Manager - Permanent Full-time in 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 Dan & Decarlo 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 Dan & Decarlo
✨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!
