At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our kitchen team to create delicious dishes with fresh, local ingredients.
- Company: Chestnut Group, a growing collection of pubs with a people-first approach.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, tips, discounts, and opportunities for growth.
- Other info: Enjoy a positive work environment with real chances for progression.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team and showcase your culinary creativity.
- Qualifications: Experience in a kitchen role preferred, but passion and teamwork are key.
The predicted salary is between 24750 - 30250 £ per year.
We’re looking for a Chef de Partie to join our fantastic kitchen team. We champion fresh, locally sourced ingredients, seasonal creativity and dishes that showcase quality ingredients and thoughtful cooking.
The Black Lion, Long Melford is a historic village inn set in the heart of this picturesque Suffolk village, famous for its medieval architecture and rich heritage. Dating back several centuries, it has long served as a welcoming gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Known for its seasonal, locally inspired food, inviting bar and friendly service, the Black Lion also offers 10 comfortable guest rooms, making it a charming destination for those exploring the village and surrounding countryside.
If you’re passionate about great food and enjoy working in a positive, supportive kitchen, we’d love to hear from you.
What You’ll Be Doing…
- As Chef de Partie, you’ll play a key role in the day‑to‑day running of the kitchen — supporting your section, contributing ideas and helping deliver consistent, high‑quality dishes.
- Prepare, cook and present dishes to Chestnut standards.
- Support with menu prep and seasonal updates.
- Maintain high food safety and hygiene standards.
- Keep your section organised, clean and efficient.
- Work closely with the kitchen team to deliver smooth, busy services.
- Help train and guide junior team members where needed.
You’d Be a Great Fit If You’re…
- Professional, reliable and collaborative.
- Passionate about fresh, local produce.
- Strong on food safety, hygiene and core cooking techniques.
- Creative and detail‑focused, with pride in delivering consistent dishes.
- A team player who enjoys a busy, supportive kitchen environment.
- Experienced in a kitchen role (CDP experience ideal, but not essential).
Why Join Us?
- Team & individual incentives - from days out to trips abroad.
- Flexible working hours for a healthy work–life balance.
- Tips + Wagestream access to track and draw pay.
- Real opportunities for growth and progression across all Chestnut properties.
- Friends & Family discounts on food and rooms.
- Access to the Chestnut Hub with hundreds of high‑street discounts.
- Accredited and nationally recognised qualifications.
- Employee rewards, recognition prizes & anniversary perks.
- Referral scheme — earn up to £1,500 per referral.
Who Are Chestnut?
Chestnut is a growing collection of pubs with rooms and Bottle Shops across East Anglia. We’re proud, humble and people‑first — our teams sit at the heart of everything we do. We offer a variety of hours to support work–life balance, and we’re committed to creating environments where people can grow, feel supported and genuinely enjoy what they do.
Ready to join a supportive team and cook great food with great people?
Sudbury - Chef de Partie Chestnut Group Sudbury UP to 32,000 in Long Melford employer: Le Strange Arms
Chestnut is an exceptional employer, offering a warm and welcoming work environment at The Weeping Willow in East Anglia. With flexible hours to accommodate personal commitments, employees benefit from accredited training courses, generous staff incentives, and unique rewards like wine discounts and affordable overnight stays across our properties, making it a truly rewarding place to grow your career in the hospitality industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sudbury - Chef de Partie Chestnut Group Sudbury UP to 32,000 in Long Melford
✨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 Le Strange Arms. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Le Strange Arms
Don't be shy about reaching out to Le Strange Arms 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 Sudbury - Chef de Partie Chestnut Group Sudbury UP to 32,000 in Long Melford
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 Le Strange Arms 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 Le Strange Arms
✨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!
