At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team and create mouth-watering menus with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
- Company: Join a vibrant pub known for its great atmosphere and delicious British cuisine.
- Benefits: Enjoy full menu autonomy, culinary masterclasses, free meals, and generous discounts.
- Other info: 28 days holiday, enhanced pension scheme, and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Showcase your creativity and passion for food while making a real impact on customer experiences.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef or Sous Chef with strong leadership and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 31000 £ per year.
About us: Tucked away behind Highbury & Islington, we’re 5 minutes from the tube, we are one of Islington's best kept secrets. We are a well-used refreshment stop for those on their way to the Emirates Stadium, with match days being our busiest days. We are a fast-paced pub, with winter months being just as busy as summer ones. Teamwork is key during the busier times, with communication skills being a high priority. We are a great team to work with, we like to have fun while working hard to give our customers a great experience! Nearest public transport – Highbury & Islington.
Being a Head Chef at The Duchess and within Young's: We believe every pub should be different, and at the Duchess we are no different. We wish to encompass the best of British produce, aspiring to curate British pub classics and perfect light bites for our guests to enjoy whatever the occasion. From a spectacular Sunday Roast to fresh summer staples to premium pre-match grub we want our customers coming away already salivating about their next trip to the Duchess. We're looking for a Head Chef with a passion for hospitality and Great British cuisine. We expect and encourage our Head Chef to write your own recipes that match the food vision of your business using fresh seasonal ingredients. Our food vision is all about showcasing local produce, pub classics, small plates and sharers & puddings - each pub is different and it's up to you as head chef to put your own creative stamp on that vision. We work with fresh, seasonal produce, so the menu should constantly evolve to showcase these fantastic ingredients when they are at their best. Premium fresh food crafted by skilled chefs in Premium Pubs.
What we offer our Head Chefs:
- Full autonomy to create your own menus and specials
- Access to our Apprenticeship Scheme and Development Programmes
- Access to regular culinary masterclasses covering topics such as Game, Butchery and Shellfish
- Access to inspirational food trips with our top quality suppliers
- Regular Chef Forums with other Head Chefs to inspire and develop
- Free meals
- 20% discount in all Young's Pubs and 30% discount on overnight stays in our Pubs with Rooms
- Share save Scheme
- Enhanced Company Pension Scheme
- 28 Days Holiday per year
What we look for in a Head Chef: This role requires someone that can inspire a team, to bring out the potential and lead by example whilst being able to develop, cost and produce fresh seasonal menus for the variety of revenue streams within the business. Have experience championing excellent service through quality food either as a Head Chef or in the position of Sous Chef. Demonstrate a passion for leading and developing a team. Be an active hands-on team player with excellent communication skills, working in tandem with the General Manager & Sous Chef. Be responsible and able to manage the kitchen staff rota, training and all health and safety effectively at all times. Be able to demonstrate your creativity and ability to design and deliver new dishes for our menus and daily specials. Demonstrate great planning and organisational skills, necessary to maintain effective controls with regard to both GP and labour. Have a pro-active approach to driving sales and delivering growth, through engagement with both kitchen and front of house teams.
Head Chef in London employer: Duchess of Kent
At The Duchess, we pride ourselves on being a vibrant and dynamic workplace where creativity and passion for Great British cuisine thrive. As a Head Chef, you will enjoy full autonomy over your menu, access to professional development opportunities, and a supportive team culture that values collaboration and fun. Located just minutes from Highbury & Islington tube station, our pub offers a unique environment to showcase your culinary skills while enjoying benefits like free meals, discounts, and a comprehensive pension scheme.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef 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 Duchess of Kent. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Duchess of Kent
Don't be shy about reaching out to Duchess of Kent 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 Head Chef 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 Duchess of Kent 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 Duchess of Kent
✨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!
