At a Glance
- Tasks: Create unforgettable dining experiences with a focus on fine service and guest satisfaction.
- Company: The Wild Rabbit, a top-rated fine dining restaurant in the Cotswolds.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, discounts, private medical, pension scheme, and mental health support.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and to work closely with a talented culinary team.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and elevate your hospitality skills in a renowned establishment.
- Qualifications: Experience in fine dining, strong food and beverage knowledge, and excellent communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 37000 £ per year.
Daylesford Stays - a part of The Bamford Collection.
We provide experiences that embrace luxury escapism: understated elegance, indulgence, and nurture.
EARNINGS
£39,000 per annum OTE*
HOURS
45 hours per week
About Us
The Wild Rabbit in Kingham is a fine dining restaurant and boutique hotel in the heart of the Cotswolds. Recognised in the Top 50 Gastropubs, the Top 50 Boutique Hotels, and awarded 3 AA Rosettes, The Wild Rabbit blends culinary excellence with warm, authentic hospitality.
Working in close connection with Daylesford Farm, our menus showcase the best seasonal, organic produce, crafted with skill and creativity. Under the leadership of Executive Chef Callum Graham, our team combines classical technique with modern inspiration, making The Wild Rabbit one of the most exciting fine dining destinations in the Cotswolds.
About The Role
As a Chef de Rang at The Wild Rabbit, you will be responsible for delivering exceptional fine dining service while creating memorable guest experiences that reflect both the precision of our culinary offering and the warmth of genuine hospitality. You will take ownership of your section throughout service, ensuring every aspect of the guest journey is delivered seamlessly and to the highest standard.
Acting as a key link between the kitchen, bar, and front‑of‑house teams, you will confidently guide guests through menus, wine selections, and beverage offerings while maintaining impeccable attention to detail. You will embody traditional hospitality values through attentive, personalised service and a genuine passion for food, drink, and guest care.
Through your professionalism, product knowledge, and commitment to excellence, you will help uphold The Wild Rabbit's reputation as one of the leading dining destinations in the Cotswolds.
Your Responsibilities
- Take ownership of a designated section, ensuring smooth and polished service throughout each service period
- Deliver attentive and personalised hospitality, anticipating guest needs and exceeding expectations wherever possible
- Develop and maintain an excellent understanding of all menus, seasonal changes, and daily specials
- Demonstrate strong wine, cocktail, beer, and spirits knowledge, providing tailored recommendations to guests
- Ensure service runs efficiently within your section, maintaining exceptional timing and attention to detail throughout
- Coordinate effectively with colleagues to ensure seamless communication between front and back of house
Skills & Requirements
- Previous experience as a Chef de Rang or within a high‑quality restaurant or fine dining environment
- Strong food and beverage knowledge with a genuine passion for hospitality and guest experience
- Excellent customer service skills with the ability to create engaging and memorable guest interactions
- Sound understanding of wines, cocktails, beers, and spirits, with confidence in making recommendations
- Strong communication skills and the ability to build rapport naturally with guests and colleagues
- Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage a section effectively during busy service periods
- Strong awareness of service flow and attention to detail
- Comfortable working collaboratively with kitchen, bar, and front‑of‑house teams
Perks & Benefits
- Discounts: Enjoy a range of discounts on our products, treatments, and dining experiences from day one
- Volunteering Days: One paid day per year to volunteer with a charity of your choice
- Private Medical: Subsidised private medical insurance through Bupa
- Pension Scheme: Pay up to 9 percent of your salary into your pension each month with a 4.5 percent contribution from us
- Life Assurance: Cover equivalent to one year of your annual salary
- Mental Health Support: 24 hour access to our Employee Assistance Programme
- The on target earning potential for this role is £39,000 per annum based on a 45‑hour contract – comprising a base salary of £31,496.40, plus a qualified estimate of £7,000 in gratuities and service charge. Please note that this role is paid hourly.
About Gratuities And Service Charge
Gratuities are paid on a pro rata basis. It is estimated that in 2026 full‑time employees can expect to receive in the region of £7,000 in addition to their annual salary.
Chef de Rang, The Wild Rabbit in Chipping Norton employer: Daylesford Stays
Daylesford Stays is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that celebrates creativity and collaboration in the culinary arts. With a focus on mentorship and professional growth, employees are encouraged to develop their skills while working with the finest organic produce from Daylesford Farm. Located in the picturesque Upper Oddington, the company provides attractive benefits such as subsidised medical insurance and a competitive salary, making it a rewarding place for passionate chefs to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef de Rang, The Wild Rabbit in Chipping Norton
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the restaurant! Before your interview, do a bit of research on The Wild Rabbit and its menu. Familiarising yourself with their dishes and ethos will show your genuine interest and help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your service skills! If you can, set up a mock dining experience at home or with friends. This will help you refine your presentation and communication skills, making you more confident when it comes to showcasing your abilities.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff from The Wild Rabbit on social media. They might share insights about the team culture or even tips for the interview process that could give you an edge.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and are keen to be part of the amazing experience we offer at The Wild Rabbit.
We think you need these skills to ace Chef de Rang, The Wild Rabbit in Chipping Norton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your love for fine dining and hospitality shine through. We want to see your enthusiasm for creating memorable guest experiences, so share any relevant stories or experiences that highlight this.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Chef de Rang role. Highlight your previous experience in fine dining and any specific skills that align with our expectations, like food and beverage knowledge or teamwork abilities.
Be Professional Yet Personal:While we appreciate professionalism, don’t be afraid to inject a bit of your personality into your application. We’re looking for someone who can connect with guests, so showing your unique style can set you apart from the crowd.
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 the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at The Wild Rabbit!
How to prepare for a job interview at Daylesford Stays
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you’re familiar with The Wild Rabbit’s menu and the seasonal produce they use. Being able to discuss specific dishes, their ingredients, and how they reflect the restaurant's ethos will show your passion and preparedness.
✨Showcase Your Hospitality Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you’ve gone above and beyond for guests. Highlighting your ability to create memorable dining experiences will resonate well with the interviewers, as this role is all about exceptional service.
✨Brush Up on Beverage Knowledge
Since the role requires strong knowledge of wines, cocktails, and spirits, be ready to discuss your favourite pairings or recent trends in the beverage industry. This will demonstrate your commitment to enhancing the guest experience through tailored recommendations.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
The Wild Rabbit values teamwork, so come prepared to talk about how you’ve collaborated with kitchen and bar teams in the past. Share specific instances where your teamwork led to a successful service, showcasing your ability to work seamlessly with others.
