At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver warm, attentive service and ensure guests have a fantastic dining experience.
- Company: Join the vibrant team at Ottolenghi, known for its seasonal cooking and warm hospitality.
- Benefits: Enjoy health benefits, staff meals, career development, and generous discounts.
- Other info: Flexible shifts, training opportunities, and a supportive culture await you.
- Why this job: Be part of a lively environment where every shift is unique and exciting.
- Qualifications: Passion for food and hospitality; previous experience is a plus but not essential.
The predicted salary is between 11 - 17 £ per hour.
From £14.31 per hour. We are now looking to grow our front-of-house team with a full-time Waiter. If you are friendly, reliable, and excited by the buzz of a busy floor, this could be your perfect next move. Ottolenghi is known for vibrant, seasonal cooking, warm hospitality, and a genuinely supportive culture. Joining us means stepping into a lively, guest-focused environment where every shift brings something new.
As a Waiter, you will:
- Deliver warm, attentive customer service
- Greet guests, take orders, and ensure food and drinks arrive promptly and accurately
- Anticipate guests' needs and offer thoughtful recommendations
- Work closely with the kitchen team to keep service smooth
- Maintain a clean and well-organised dining space
- Thrive in a fast-paced, energetic environment
What We Are Looking For:
- Previous waiting experience is great, but not essential
- A genuine passion for food, hospitality, and great service
- A positive attitude and desire to elevate every guest's experience
- Clear communication and strong teamwork skills
- Attention to detail and excellent time management
- Flexibility to work a range of shifts, including evenings and weekends
What’s in it for you:
- Comprehensive Health Benefits to support your wellbeing
- Staff Meals made with the same passion as our menus
- Career Development & Tailored Training to help you grow
- English Language Courses at all levels
- Enhanced Parental Pay after two years' service
- £100 Uniform Voucher to get you started
- Birthday Treat on your special day
- £500 Refer-a-Friend Scheme
- Monthly Cooking Demos, Food/Wine Workshops & OTK Sessions
- Generous Discounts across all Ottolenghi restaurants and shops
- Wellbeing Support and access to mental health resources
If you are an experienced Waiter, or someone with the right attitude and passion, and you are ready for your next step, we would love to hear from you.
Waiter employer: Ottolenghi
Ottolenghi in Hampstead is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture where creativity and collaboration thrive. With competitive pay, comprehensive health benefits, and generous holiday allowances, employees are encouraged to grow their culinary skills in a supportive environment that values professional development and teamwork.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Waiter
✨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 Waiter
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!
