Head Chef / SOUS CHEF— Nigerian Cuisine — Jollof Haven (Surbiton) — Opening Team
Location: Ewell Road, Surbiton KT6 7AQ
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £28,000 - £35,000 per year (DOE) + Tips + Bonus
Start Date: November 2026 — Interviews October 2026
About Jollof Haven
Surbiton's first authentic Nigerian Restaurant & Bar — opening November 2026. 40-cover restaurant + bar + takeaway/delivery. We are bringing true Lagos flavour, premium presentation, and warm Naija hospitality to Surbiton.
The Role
You will be responsible for the entire kitchen operation — from menu execution to team leadership, stock, hygiene and profitability. This is not just cooking — this is building a brand.
Key Responsibilities
- Leading daily kitchen operations and managing all kitchen staff.
- Preparing, cooking and presenting all Nigerian dishes to highest standard: Jollof Rice (Party & Classic), Fried Rice, Ofada & Ayamase, Suya, Asun, Nkwobi, Isi Ewu, Amala & Ewedu/Gbegiri, Pounded Yam, Egusi, Efo Riro, Ogbono, Oha, Banga, Afang, Pepper Soup (Goat, Fish, Assorted), Moi Moi, etc.
- Developing specials, controlling portioning and reducing waste.
- Creating prep lists, ordering stock, and liaising with suppliers.
- Maintaining 100% Food Hygiene, HACCP, allergen compliance and EHO readiness.
- Training, mentoring and rostering Chef Assistants / Commis.
- Managing food cost, GP, and working with owner on menu pricing.
- Ensuring consistent taste — every plate must taste like home.
What We Need
- Proven experience as Head Chef / Senior Sous Chef in Nigerian / West African restaurant (UK essential).
- Expert in cooking almost all major Nigerian dishes — you must be able to cook them blindfolded.
- Strong leadership — able to lead, train and discipline kitchen team.
- Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate (required).
- Level 2 Allergy Awareness, HACCP knowledge.
- Right to Work in UK — must be reliable and punctual.
- Able to work evenings and weekends.
Benefits
- £28k-£35k + service charge/tips + performance bonus.
- Free staff meals on shift.
- 28 days holiday.
- Be the founding Head Chef — name on the menu, creative input.
- Growth to Executive Chef as we expand.
- Company pension.
- Discounted or free food.
- Employee discount.
Experience
Required
Employment
Full-time
Schedule
Monday to Friday
Salary
£29,000 – £32,000 yearly
Starting time
Immediate start!
About Jollof Haven Nigerian Restaurant & Bar
We are new and focus cuisine business and our goals is to build our staff for a long term opportunity and grow with us as the company grow
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Contact Details:
Jollof Haven Nigerian Restaurant & Bar Recruitment Team
