At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead our kitchen team to create authentic Japanese dishes and deliver outstanding service.
- Company: KIBOU, a growing independent Japanese restaurant group with a focus on quality and culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy employee discounts, free meals, wellness support, and personalised training opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive environment that values your wellbeing and growth.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and shape the future of our unique dining experience.
- Qualifications: Experience in kitchen management and a flair for creative menu development.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
KIBOU is an independent Japanese restaurant and bar with locations in Battersea, Cheltenham, Bristol, Solihull, Oxford and Cambridge. Our kitchens deliver a diverse menu showcasing a variety of Japanese cuisine, all handmade or hand-rolled fresh in the kitchen daily. Our stringent sourcing policy ensures that we only ever use the freshest, best quality and most authentic ingredients, so our guests can enjoy a premium dining experience with each visit. Each KIBOU has a dedicated sushi kitchen offering an extensive selection of handmade-to-order sushi and sashimi.
Your role will be to manage the day-to-day running of the kitchen operations and the team, with motivation and commitment to deliver outstanding service. You will lead the kitchen team from the front to create a fun, authentic and original dining experience that supports our core values. At KIBOU, we’re looking for incredible individuals to come on a journey with us, helping to grow our small family of restaurants whilst delivering exceptional food and service to all of our guests. Being part of a small growing business, you’ll have the opportunity to work on menu development, bringing your own ideas to the table and helping us grow our offering.
Experience, Qualifications and Skills we need:
- Experience in Japanese cuisine preferred but not essential
- Ability to recruit, train and develop effective and passionate teams
- Proven track record of delivering sales growth through consistent food quality and service
- Effective labour cost management
- Track record of delivering budgeted food margins
- Flare for creative and authentic menu development
- Experience in running large teams of chefs
- Ensure legal compliance and health & safety are managed as required
KIBOU are a considerate and respectful employer, and we place team wellbeing at the heart of our operation. We love our people and are thrilled to be growing our team!
Why work with us:
- A business with our people at its core, valuing individuals as much as the team
- A restaurant-led organisation that champions operational autonomy and the freedom to thrive, with opportunities to shape how the business evolves and grows.
- Personalised training programmes and development opportunities tailored to you
- 100% equal and transparent service charge policy
- Japanese culture & cuisine 101. Get to know Japanese food!
- Regular socials, including the annual KIBOU awards show and summer party
- Employee discounts when you dine in any of our restaurants
- Free meals cooked by your chefs, or generously discounted menu items on shift
- Professional confidential support with the wellness programme, Licensed Trade Charity
- Financial well-being with Hastee
- Enhanced Pension provision through Salary Exchange
- Recognised as being one of the Top 30 Best Places to Work in Hospitality 2025, by The Caterer
Head Chef employer: KIBOU Restaurants Ltd
KIBOU is an exceptional employer that prioritises the wellbeing of its team, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture where individual contributions are valued. As a Head Chef, you will have the unique opportunity to influence menu development and lead a passionate kitchen team in a vibrant environment, all while enjoying benefits such as personalised training, employee discounts, and regular social events. Join us in delivering authentic Japanese cuisine and be part of a growing family of restaurants that celebrates creativity and excellence.
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 KIBOU Restaurants Ltd. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to KIBOU Restaurants Ltd
Don't be shy about reaching out to KIBOU Restaurants Ltd 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 KIBOU Restaurants Ltd 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 KIBOU Restaurants Ltd
✨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!
