At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our kitchen team and learn to create vibrant dishes with fresh ingredients.
- Company: Ottolenghi, a celebrated brand known for its creative food and warm service.
- Benefits: Daytime shifts, health benefits, 28 days holiday, and excellent training opportunities.
- Other info: Enjoy monthly cooking demos and workshops while building your culinary career.
- Why this job: Perfect for food lovers eager to grow in a supportive, fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: Passion for food, good communication skills, and some kitchen experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 24960 - 30000 £ per year.
Ottolenghi is a renowned group of restaurants and delis celebrated for vibrant, creative food and warm, welcoming service. We’re looking for an enthusiastic Commis Chef to join our team at Ottolenghi Hampstead. This is a great opportunity to learn, grow, and build your career in a professional kitchen while being part of a supportive, creative team.
As a Commis Chef at Ottolenghi Hampstead, you’ll work closely with senior chefs, assisting across different sections of the kitchen. You’ll be preparing fresh seasonal ingredients and learning the skills needed to produce dishes to the high standards Ottolenghi is known for. This role is perfect for someone eager to develop their craft in a fast‑paced, high‑quality environment.
Ideal Candidate
- Have a genuine passion for food and a desire to learn.
- Work well under pressure and thrive in a busy kitchen.
- Be a reliable team player with good communication skills.
- Take pride in maintaining high standards of cleanliness and organisation.
- Have some kitchen experience, though full training will be provided.
Benefits
- Day time shifts only.
- Chef’s uniform.
- Enhanced Maternity, Adoption, Surrogacy, or Primary Care Giver Parent Pay and Paternity Pay after 2 years of service.
- Health benefits package.
- 28 days holiday and pension scheme.
- Excellent training plan and clear progression opportunities.
- Refer a friend scheme, £500 each.
- Monthly cooking demos, food, wine, and cocktail workshops in the Ottolenghi Test Kitchen.
- A positive, inclusive workplace where your growth is supported.
Position Details
- Experience: Required
- Languages: English – Advanced
- Employment: Full-time
- Schedule: Flexible
- Salary: £13.76 hourly
- Starting time: Immediate start!
About Ottolenghi: Ottolenghi is a beloved London food brand known for vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern inspired food, stunning bakes and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. With multiple sites across London and an exciting new opening coming to Edinburgh.
Commis Chef employer: Ottolenghi
Ottolenghi Hampstead is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture where creativity flourishes. As a Commis Chef, you'll benefit from daytime shifts, comprehensive training, and clear progression opportunities, all while being part of a supportive team dedicated to culinary excellence. With unique perks like monthly cooking demos and a health benefits package, Ottolenghi is committed to nurturing your growth in a rewarding environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Commis 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 Ottolenghi. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Ottolenghi
Don't be shy about reaching out to Ottolenghi 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 Commis 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 Ottolenghi 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 Ottolenghi
✨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!
