At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a vibrant kitchen, crafting authentic Northern Thai dishes and mentoring a passionate team.
- Company: Join Khao-So-i, a beloved Thai restaurant expanding internationally in London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, holiday entitlement, employee discounts, and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Supportive team environment with opportunities for international business trips.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting culinary journey and make your mark in London's food scene.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef or strong Senior Sous Chef with authentic Thai cooking skills.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 60000 £ per year.
Khao-So-i, one of Thailand's most beloved and well known for our specialty in Northern Thai cuisine, is currently seeking an experienced and passionate Head Chef to join our kitchen in London. You'll be responsible for building a high-performing kitchen, maintaining authentic Northern Thai cuisine, and helping grow one of London's most exciting Thai restaurant scenes.
What you'll do:
- Kitchen Leadership & Operation: Take full daily ownership of the kitchen - leading service, driving consistency, and keeping kitchen standards tight during peak hours.
- Work with Our Founder: Collaborate directly with our Thai chef founder to execute authentic Thai recipes and cooking techniques.
- Team Leadership & Development: Lead, train, and mentor the kitchen team - building a positive, organised environment and preparing key chef positions for future growth.
- P&L & Kitchen Financials: Manage gross profit (GP), minimise food waste, control portion sizes, and manage rotas to hit labor cost targets.
- Supplier & Stock Control: Oversee ordering, stock takes, and daily deliveries, working with specialist Asian importers and local UK suppliers to keep quality high.
- Kitchen Safety & Hygiene: Maintain strict compliance with UK Food Safety (HACCP), allergen tracking, health & safety, and daily kitchen paperwork.
What We’re Looking For:
- Proven Experience: Head Chef experience (or strong Senior Sous Chef background) in a high-volume, quality-led London restaurant.
- Real Thai Cooking Experience: Practical experience with authentic Thai cooking - wok skills, balancing real Thai flavors (sweet, salty, sour, spicy), and managing high-temp preparation.
- Commercial Acumen: Clear understanding of GP control, stock management, labor costs, and kitchen organisation.
- Hands-on Leadership: A clear, approachable communicator who leads by example on the pass and keeps cool under pressure.
- Right to Work: Valid right to work in the UK.
What We Offer:
- Competitive package £55,000 - £60,000 (negotiable).
- Opportunities for international career growth and development.
- Business trips.
- Supportive team environment.
Benefits:
- Holiday entitlement increases with your length of service, up to 28 days.
- Employee discounts.
- Company pension scheme.
- Enhanced maternity and paternity pay.
Experience: Required
Employment: Full-time
Salary: £55,000 - £60,000 yearly
About Khao-So-i: Khao-So-i, one of Thailand's most beloved and well known for our specialty in Northern Thai cuisine, is expanding internationally - and we want you to be part of this exciting journey!
Head Chef employer: Khao-So-i
Khao-So-i is an excellent employer for aspiring chefs, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters creativity and collaboration in the heart of Greater London. With competitive pay, flexible hours, and a commitment to employee growth, you will have the chance to learn authentic Thai cooking while advancing your career towards Demi Chef de Partie and beyond. Join us to be part of a passionate team dedicated to culinary excellence and personal development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef
✨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 Khao-So-i. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Khao-So-i
Don't be shy about reaching out to Khao-So-i 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
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 Khao-So-i 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 Khao-So-i
✨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!
