At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead kitchen operations and create innovative Thai dishes in a vibrant restaurant.
- Company: Join the award-winning JKS Restaurants, known for its exceptional dining experiences.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, self-care salary, discounts, and wellness support.
- Other info: Exciting career growth opportunities in a supportive and dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team celebrating Thai cuisine and make your mark in the culinary world.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef with a love for Thai/Asian food.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
Experience - Previous experience as a Head Chef within a quality restaurant. Knowledge of Thai food is preferred.
JKS Restaurants and Plaza Khao Gaeng are seeking a Head Chef to lead their kitchen operations.
The successful candidate will have a passion for Thai/Asian cuisine and have previous experience as a Head Chef.
This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Head Chef looking for a new role in an award winning, critically acclaimed group.
Plaza Khao Gaeng is a celebration of Thailand’s coast-to-jungle cooking, serving Khao gaeng dishes, which translates broadly as “curry over rice”.
A kaleidoscope of curries rich with fresh coconut milk, aromatic curry pastes, and fermented fish for depth, alongside searingly hot stir-fries lifted with cooling herbs - all designed to be mixed, matched and spooned over rice.
In Thailand, the most popular khao gaeng spots expand to fill whatever space they can.
Plaza takes inspiration from one such restaurant in Bangkok, now spread through an old cinema - curries laid out in gleaming trays beneath a faded façade, climbing the stairs to the former box office.
It’s anytime comfort food, offering pause and shade from the heat and noise of the street outside.
The Position
As Head Chef, you will be responsible for ensuring the delivery of consistent, high quality and innovative dishes and specials; you will play a key role in menu development, working closely with the Group Exec Chef and Chef Director.
You will manage the overall kitchen operation, including prep schedules, stock control, budgeting and maintenance, as well as the day to day management of the kitchen team.
If you have the following, then we want to hear from you
- Previous experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a high quality restaurant;
- Strong awareness of trends and seasonality of produce;
- A passion for Thai and/or Asian cuisine;
- A highly creative approach to your work with excellent attention to detail;
- Proven ability to manage, train and motivate a kitchen brigade;
- Experience in managing staff costs, scheduling and reviewing staff rotas;
- Strengths in finances, purchasing and menu costing;
- A working knowledge of health and safety, compliance and procedures;
This is a very exciting opportunity not to be missed for a talented Head Chef eager to join a restaurant group with ambitious plans.
At Chaiyo, we believe in a culture that truly backs our people.
Hospitality is a people industry, and we're committed to rewarding the hard work and loyalty that makes us who we are.
- Award-Winning Workplace
- Recognised as one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2026
- Dining & Hospitality
- Dine Out Allowance - Quarterly peer to peer at competitor restaurants
- Lunch for 2 after probation
- Up to 50% off dining across JKS restaurants
- CODE App membership - Discount at some of the UK's best restaurants
- Self care salary - £1,200 additional salary to spend on your self care.
- Discounted gym membership with up to 25% off at 4,000+ venues across the UK
- 24/7 Doctor & prescription services for peace of mind healthcare
- 8 free counselling sessions to support your mental wellbeing
- Employee Assistance Program providing confidential support when you need it
- Health, legal, money and debt support services available
- Entertainment
- Up to 55% off cinema tickets
- Up to 25% off UK attractions (London Eye, Thorpe Park, SEA LIFE, and more)
- Up to 15% cashback at 70+ major retailers across the UK
- Wagestream - stream a portion of your pay earlier when you need it
- Access to financial advice to help with your financial planning
- Company donations for your involvement with charities
- Special Occasions & Recognition
- Wedding gift & newborn care package - celebrating your big occasions
- Staff parties & long service awards recognising your commitment
- Employee referral scheme - earn up to £600 per referral
- Additional holiday for every year with us (rising to 30 days)
- The Group
JKS Restaurants was founded by siblings Jyotin, Karam, and Sunaina Sethi in November 2008.
Since its inception, the group has received critical acclaim and industry recognition, including 8 Michelin stars, 4 Michelin Bib Gourmands, a restaurant ranked among the World’s 100 Best Restaurants, and a spot in the Sunday Times Best 100 Places to Work 2026.
The JKS portfolio currently features Michelin-starred restaurants such as Trishna, Gymkhana, Kitchen Table, Sabor, Legado and Ambassadors Clubhouse; along with cult favourites Hoppers, Brigadiers, Berenjak, Plaza Khao Gaeng, Speedboat Bar, and Bibi.
JKS Restaurants offers a unique opportunity to pursue a career in fine dining or to develop within trend-focused casual cuisine, with opportunities across all disciplines for those looking to advance their careers within a people-focused, collaborative hospitality group.
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Head Chef in City of Westminster employer: JKS Restaurants
At JKS Restaurants, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that celebrates individuality and fosters professional growth. As a Pastry Chef de Partie at the Michelin-starred Ambassadors Clubhouse in Mayfair, you'll be part of a passionate team dedicated to delivering authentic Punjabi cuisine while enjoying benefits like generous dining discounts, personalised development plans, and additional holiday for every year with us. Join us to elevate your culinary career in a supportive environment that values hard work and creativity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in City of Westminster
✨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 JKS Restaurants. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to JKS Restaurants
Don't be shy about reaching out to JKS Restaurants 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 City of Westminster
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 JKS Restaurants 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 JKS Restaurants
✨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!
