At a Glance
- Tasks: Cook fresh, delicious food and support the Head Chef in a vibrant kitchen.
- Company: Join Novo Lounge, part of the award-winning Casual Dining Group.
- Benefits: Earn up to £12.71/hr + tips, free meals, and 50% off food & drinks.
- Other info: Enjoy exciting staff parties and genuine career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a friendly team and enjoy flexible hours while developing your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Grill Chef, Line Chef, or Chef de Partie in a busy kitchen.
The predicted salary is between 12.71 - 12.71 £ per hour.
We’re hiring Chefs to join the kitchen team at Novo Lounge.
Part of Loungers, proudly named Casual Dining Group of the Year 2026.
Offering up to £12.71/hr + tips, paid breaks, staff food every shift, and 50% off food & drinks from day one this a great next step for an experienced Chef, Chef de Partie, Line Cheff, Grill chef!
About the Role
Lounges are pretty special places, and what makes them so special is the brilliant people who work in them.
We’re looking for a Chefto join our busy, friendly, supportive, and reliable kitchen team.
As part of our chef team, you’ll be all aboutdelivering our flexible all-day menu, done right, every time.
Working alongside your Head Chef and team, you’ll make sure every dish hits spec, the kitchen runs smoothly, and standards stay high from prep to plate.
We’re a growing brand with 300+ sites across England and Wales. Whether you’re building a career or just want flexible work, there’s a place for you here.
What’s in it For You?
- Hourly pay + tips. Tips shared equally across the team, based on hours worked
- Hourly paid flexible contract. Ideal for part-time, full-time, or flexible work seekers. This role is likely to include evening and weekend work
- Free meal on every shift no matter the length
- Christmas and Boxing Day off
- Genuine career development with our career pathways and bitesize training courses
- 50% discount on food and drinks from day one. Including alcohol across all our brands (Lounge, Cosy Club, & Brightside) from day one
• The most talked-about staff party in hospitality — Loungefest!
- Long service awards – Vouchers/Extra money
- Early access to your pay with Stream
- Emotional and practical support via the Licensed Trade Charity
- What You’ll do
- Cook fresh food to spec; from tapas dishes, to all day Lounge breakfasts
- Support the Head Chef with prep, service, and standards
- Keep the kitchen clean, safe, and fully prepped
- Follow food safety & allergen processes at all times Work as one team with FOH to deliver a great experience
- What You’ll Bring
- A passion for real cooking and quality food
- Someone the team can count on — you show up, you're on time, and you give it everything when you're there
- Energy, pace, and a positive attitude
- Team player with good communication
- Able to work efficiently under pressure
- Experience as a Grill Chef, Line Chef or Chef de Partie in a high-volume kitchen
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Chef in Harlow employer: Lounges
Lounges offers competitive pay and benefits, including paid breaks and discounts on food and drinks. The company fosters a friendly and supportive work culture, making it an ideal place for those passionate about hospitality. With over 300 locations, there are ample opportunities for career growth and development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef in Harlow
✨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 Lounges. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Lounges
Don't be shy about reaching out to Lounges 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 Chef in Harlow
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 Lounges 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 Lounges
✨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!