At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver exceptional service and create memorable dining experiences for our guests.
- Company: Join the vibrant Ottolenghi community, passionate about food and hospitality.
- Benefits: Enjoy health benefits, staff meals, career development, and exclusive workshops.
- Other info: Flexible shifts, discounts, and a supportive environment for personal growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative team that celebrates bold flavours and diverse influences.
- Qualifications: Passion for food and service; experience preferred but not essential.
The predicted salary is between 12 - 15 € per hour.
At Ottolenghi, we’re more than just a collection of restaurants – we’re a community driven by a shared passion for exceptional food, creativity, and hospitality. Rooted in a love for vibrant, seasonal ingredients, our culinary philosophy celebrates bold flavours, diverse influences, and the joy of sharing meals with others. From our thoughtfully crafted menus to the warm, welcoming atmosphere in our spaces, we aim to create memorable experiences for our guests while nurturing a culture of growth, collaboration, and inclusivity within our team. Ottolenghi’s focus is on Mediterranean & Middle Eastern inspired dishes, as well as low intervention wines. Our eye-catching deli and shop area also sells the world-famous Ottolenghi vibrant, fresh salads, delicious cakes, and packaged products.
As a Waiter, you will:
- Provide excellent customer service with a warm and professional approach
- Greet guests, take orders, and ensure food and drinks are served promptly and accurately
- Anticipate guests’ needs and offer suggestions or recommendations
- Collaborate with kitchen staff to ensure smooth service and guest satisfaction
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of the dining area
- Work effectively in a fast-paced, high-energy environment
What We’re Looking For:
- Previous experience in a similar role is preferred but not essential
- A passion for food, service, and hospitality
- A positive attitude, with a strong desire to exceed guest expectations
- Team-oriented and able to communicate clearly
- Strong attention to detail and excellent time management skills
- Flexibility to work various shifts, including evenings and weekends
What's in it for you:
- Comprehensive Health Benefits: Take care of yourself with a full health benefits package that supports your well-being.
- Staff Meals: Enjoy delicious meals on shift, crafted with the same passion and quality as what we serve our guests.
- Career Development Opportunities: We believe in growth! Enjoy access to tailored training and internal progression, so you can develop your skills and advance your career with us.
- English Language Training: We offer language courses at all levels (Basic, Intermediate, and Business) to help you excel both personally and professionally.
- Enhanced Parental Pay: After two years of service, you’ll benefit from enhanced Maternity, Adoption, Surrogacy, or Primary Care Giver Parent Pay, as well as Paternity Pay to support your growing family.
- £100 Uniform Voucher: Get started with a uniform voucher to ensure you look your best on the job.
- Special Birthday Treat: A little something to make your day extra special.
- Refer a Friend: Share the love and earn £500 each when you refer a friend to join our team.
- Exclusive Workshops & Demos: Enjoy monthly cooking demonstrations, as well as food, wine, and cocktail workshops in the Ottolenghi Test Kitchen to expand your culinary knowledge.
- Discounts Across the Ottolenghi Group: Receive generous discounts on food, drinks, and products across our restaurants and shops.
- Wellness & Support: Access to wellbeing resources, mental health support, and a caring environment where we take care of our team.
We’d love to hear from you if you’re an experienced Waiter and are ready for the next step in your working journey.
Waiter / Waitress employer: Ottolenghi HQ & Test Kitchen
At Ottolenghi, we pride ourselves on being more than just a restaurant; we are a vibrant community that values creativity, exceptional food, and hospitality. Our inclusive work culture fosters personal and professional growth, offering comprehensive health benefits, tailored career development opportunities, and unique experiences like cooking workshops. Join us in a fast-paced, supportive environment where your passion for food and service can truly flourish.
Contact Detail:
Ottolenghi HQ & Test Kitchen Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Waiter / Waitress
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the restaurant vibe! Before you apply, pop into Ottolenghi and soak up the atmosphere. Chat with staff, check out the menu, and get a feel for the community. This will help you tailor your approach when you apply through our website.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for food and hospitality! When you get the chance to chat with us, let your enthusiasm shine through. Share your favourite dishes or experiences in the industry – it’ll make you stand out as someone who truly gets what we’re about.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your customer service skills! Think of scenarios where you’ve gone above and beyond for guests. We love team players who can anticipate needs and create memorable experiences, so be ready to share those stories during your interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Be flexible and ready to adapt! Our environment is fast-paced, and we appreciate those who can roll with the punches. Highlight your time management skills and ability to work various shifts when you connect with us – it shows you’re ready for the challenge!
We think you need these skills to ace Waiter / Waitress
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food:When you're writing your application, let your love for food and hospitality shine through. Share any experiences that highlight your enthusiasm for serving others and creating memorable dining experiences.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the values and culture of Ottolenghi. Mention how your skills and experiences align with our focus on exceptional service and vibrant, seasonal ingredients.
Highlight Teamwork Skills:Since we value collaboration, emphasise your ability to work well in a team. Share examples of how you've successfully communicated and collaborated with colleagues in fast-paced environments.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get to know you better!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ottolenghi HQ & Test Kitchen
✨Know the Menu Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to familiarise yourself with Ottolenghi's menu. Understand the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences, and be ready to discuss your favourite dishes. This shows your passion for food and helps you connect with the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you provided excellent customer service. Think about times when you went above and beyond for a guest. This will demonstrate your commitment to creating memorable experiences, which is key at Ottolenghi.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Communication
Since collaboration with kitchen staff is crucial, be ready to talk about how you work effectively in a team. Share specific instances where clear communication led to successful service, highlighting your ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
✨Bring a Positive Attitude
Your attitude can make a huge difference! Approach the interview with enthusiasm and positivity. Show that you're eager to exceed guest expectations and contribute to a warm, welcoming atmosphere. A great attitude can set you apart from other candidates.
