At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the dining experience and mentor junior waiters in a high-end restaurant.
- Company: Join a prestigious Michelin-starred venue with a focus on exceptional service.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, industry training, clear career progression, and staff dining perks.
- Other info: Opportunity for growth towards Restaurant Manager or Floor Manager roles.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team delivering unforgettable experiences to discerning guests.
- Qualifications: 2+ years in a senior front-of-house role with strong fine dining knowledge.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are looking for a confident and experienced Head Waiter to join our team. Working closely with the Restaurant Manager, you will lead from the floor, setting the standard for service and delivering an exceptional dining experience to a discerning clientele in a high-end environment.
Responsibilities
- Lead and coordinate service across your section, ensuring smooth, seamless delivery from start to finish.
- Guide guests through the menu, offering confident recommendations across food and drink.
- Oversee table management, timing and pace in step with the kitchen and pass.
- Set the tone for junior waiters, mentoring and supporting the wider floor team.
- Handle guest requests, special occasions and any issues with composure and discretion.
- Uphold service standards consistent with a fine dining environment.
- Build genuine relationships with regulars and high-value guests.
- Drive covers and average spend while always putting the guest experience first.
Qualifications
- 2+ years in a senior front-of-house role in a Michelin-starred restaurant, 5-star hotel or comparable high-end venue.
- Strong knowledge of fine dining service standards, etiquette and sequence of service.
- Confident knowledge of food and beverage, with genuine curiosity to keep learning.
- Polished floor presence, composed under pressure, naturally guest-facing.
- Commercially aware with a guest-first approach to selling.
- Right to work in the UK.
What's on Offer
- Competitive salary.
- Access to industry training, tastings and supplier relationships.
- Clear progression path toward Restaurant Manager or Floor Manager.
- Staff dining, referral bonuses and a strong benefits package.
Head Waiter in London employer: Kinora Group
Join our prestigious establishment in London as a Head Waiter, where you will be part of a dynamic team dedicated to delivering an exceptional dining experience. We pride ourselves on fostering a supportive work culture that encourages personal growth and development, offering clear progression paths towards management roles. With competitive salaries, access to industry training, and a strong benefits package, we ensure our employees feel valued and motivated in a high-end environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Waiter 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 Kinora Group. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Kinora Group
Don't be shy about reaching out to Kinora Group 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 Waiter 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 Kinora Group 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 Kinora Group
✨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!
