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- Tasks: Lead a talented kitchen team and create innovative Asian-inspired menus.
- Company: Join the prestigious Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, part of Relais & Châteaux.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, ongoing training, meals on shift, and generous gratuities.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team in a Michelin-recommended restaurant with a focus on creativity.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef or strong Sous Chef with deep knowledge of Asian cuisine.
- Other info: Enjoy a collaborative environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 50000 £ per year.
At Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, we proudly offer two distinct luxury establishments situated on separate estates, yet operated seamlessly as one cohesive team. Whether you opt for the laid-back ambiance of Gilpin Hotel or the distinct combination of hotel and country house at Gilpin Lake House, your experience with us is designed to be effortlessly harmonious.
Set within the five‑star Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, Gilpin Spice is a 2‑AA‑Rosette, Michelin-recommended open‑plan restaurant serving pan‑Asian dishes with flair, fire, and finesse. It’s fast-paced, full of personality, and loved by guests for its immersive, relaxed luxury. We’re now looking for an exceptional Head Chef to lead this exciting restaurant into its next chapter.
The Role of Head Chef
As Head Chef, you’ll take ownership of the kitchen - driving creativity, consistency, and an outstanding guest experience. You’ll lead a talented brigade, develop menus that celebrate the spice trail, and ensure the highest standards of quality, safety, and organisation.
What You’ll Be Doing as a Head Chef
- Leads and inspires the Gilpin Spice kitchen team.
- Designs innovative, flavour‑driven menus rooted in Asian cuisines.
- Manages kitchen operations, stock, GP, and compliance.
- Trains, develops, and mentors chefs and kitchen porters at all levels.
- Collaborates with senior leadership on strategy, guest experience, and brand evolution.
- Upholds Gilpin’s values of warmth, excellence, and genuine hospitality.
What We’re Looking For
- A Head Chef or strong Sous Chef ready to take the next step.
- Deep knowledge of Asian flavours and cooking techniques.
- A creative, energetic leader who thrives in a busy open kitchen.
- Someone who values people, culture, and team development.
- Someone who will lead the kitchen with an unwavering commitment to food safety, legislative compliance, and the highest operational standards.
- A passion for delivering exceptional food with consistency and flair, whilst enhancing the guest experience at every opportunity.
What We Offer
- The chance to be part of a driven and collaborative team.
- Ongoing training and development opportunities.
- Meals on shift, uniform, generous gratuities.
- The pride of contributing to a property recognised with 5 AA Red Stars, and two Michelin Keys.
- The prestige of working within two of the world’s most respected hospitality networks: Relais & Châteaux and Pride of Britain Hotels.
If you’re ready to bring your talent, imagination, and leadership to one of the region’s most exciting restaurants, we’d love to hear from you.
Location: Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, Windermere
Position: Full-Time | Competitive Salary | Flexible start for the right candidate
Salary: from £45,000 to £50,000 depending on experience, plus structured gratuities (average of £877 per month)
Head Chef in Windermere employer: Ocean House
Contact Detail:
Ocean House Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in Windermere
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the hospitality industry, especially those who might know someone at Gilpin Hotel & Lake House. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your culinary flair! If you get the chance, bring a sample of your signature dish to an interview or networking event. It’s a tasty way to demonstrate your skills and passion for Asian cuisine.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to talk about your leadership style. As a Head Chef, you'll need to inspire your team. Think about examples where you've successfully led a kitchen or mentored others, and be prepared to share those stories.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the Gilpin family.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef in Windermere
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food: When you're writing your application, let your love for cooking and Asian cuisine shine through. Share your experiences and what inspires you in the kitchen – we want to see that fire in your belly!
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Head Chef role. Highlight your leadership skills, creativity, and any relevant experience in high-pressure kitchens. We’re looking for someone who can really make an impact!
Be Authentic: Don’t be afraid to show your personality! We value genuine hospitality and warmth, so let us get to know the real you in your application. Share your culinary journey and what makes you unique as a chef.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures it gets into the right hands quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ocean House
✨Know Your Flavours
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Asian flavours and cooking techniques. Be ready to discuss how you can incorporate these into innovative, flavour-driven menus. Show them that you’re not just a chef, but a culinary artist who understands the essence of the cuisine.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head Chef, you'll need to inspire and lead your team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed kitchen operations and developed your team in the past. Highlight your ability to create a positive kitchen culture and how you plan to do this at Gilpin Spice.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Guest Experience
Gilpin Hotel & Lake House values exceptional guest experiences. Think about how you can enhance this through your cooking and leadership. Be ready to share ideas on how you would ensure consistency and flair in every dish served, making each guest's experience memorable.
✨Understand Their Values
Familiarise yourself with the values of warmth, excellence, and genuine hospitality that Gilpin embodies. During the interview, reflect these values in your responses and show how you align with their mission. This will demonstrate that you’re not just looking for a job, but a place where you can contribute meaningfully.
