At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and cook delicious Italian-inspired dishes in a vibrant kitchen.
- Company: Join Luqa, a new restaurant at Eden Locke, Edinburgh.
- Benefits: Enjoy free hotel stays, wellbeing perks, and a pension scheme.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and a collaborative team environment.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting new concept and shape the kitchen's future.
- Qualifications: 1 year of kitchen experience and a passion for food.
The predicted salary is between 25920 - 31680 £ per year.
We’re opening Luqa, a new restaurant at Eden Locke on George Street, Edinburgh, and we’re looking for a Sous Chef to join us at the beginning of our journey. Luqa is a new concept opening this autumn, with a simple approach to food: good, unfussy dishes with an Italian twist, served in a relaxed and welcoming space. We’re looking for someone who wants to be part of building something new. This is an opportunity to join early and have an influence on how Luqa develops. This is a full-time role, 40 hours per week across 5 days.
What you'll be doing:
- Preparing and cooking food across our café, brunch and restaurant menus
- Supporting daily kitchen preparation and service
- Helping us maintain consistency and quality as the menu and concept develop
- Keeping the kitchen clean, organised and compliant with food hygiene and health & safety standards
- Working closely with the wider Luqa and Eden Locke team to deliver a great guest experience
- Bringing ideas, curiosity and a willingness to help shape and improve what we do
What we’re looking for:
- At least 1 year's experience in a professional kitchen or similar hospitality role
- Someone who is confident working independently but also enjoys being part of a team
- A good understanding of food hygiene and kitchen standards
- Someone organised, reliable and comfortable working in a busy environment
- Experience with pizza is desirable, but not essential
- Most importantly, someone who is enthusiastic about food and wants to be part of something new
Why join Luqa?
Luqa is a brand-new concept, giving you the opportunity to join from the early stages and help shape the kitchen as we grow. We’re looking for someone who wants to contribute ideas, develop their skills and be part of creating something from the ground up. Luqa will be part of Eden Locke, a 72-apartment aparthotel on Edinburgh's George Street. You'll be part of a small, collaborative team where the restaurant works closely with the hotel and where there is plenty of opportunity to learn and grow.
What we offer:
- 40 hours per week across 5 days
- Free nights at your choice of our hotels
- Wellbeing benefits, including a Cash Plan and Employee Assistance Programme
- Pension scheme
When and where?
Luqa at Eden Locke, 127 George Street, Edinburgh. Luqa is opening in October, and we’re looking for someone to join us around the opening of the new concept. Start date will be agreed depending on availability and notice period. We believe in working flexibly, including flexibility around working days, weekends, bank holidays and working hours.
About Locke:
At Locke, we create spaces where you can be you. From front desk to back office, on-the-ground to behind-the-scenes, our people make Locke what it is. We’re building a community of the culturally curious, the forward-thinking and the ever-questioning. Luqa is our latest opportunity to bring that philosophy to life through food and drink.
About Edyn:
Our vision is to create sanctuaries across European cities, providing a sense of belonging for the free-thinking urbanite in all of us. Our brands - Locke, SACO and Cove - are rooted in their local neighbourhoods, offering vibrant experiences and connections.
Sous Chef employer: Locke Hotels
Eden Locke in Edinburgh is an exceptional employer that prioritises a warm and inclusive work culture, where team members are encouraged to be friendly and proactive. With flexible working hours and opportunities for personal growth within the hospitality sector, employees can thrive in a supportive environment that values communication and attention to detail, making every day rewarding and meaningful.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous 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 Locke Hotels. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Locke Hotels
Don't be shy about reaching out to Locke Hotels 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 Sous 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 Locke Hotels 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 Locke Hotels
✨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!
