At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a new fine dining Thai restaurant and create exceptional dishes.
- Company: Join Chaiyo Group, renowned for authentic Thai cuisine in London.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, dining discounts, wellness support, and career growth.
- Other info: Recognised as one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2026.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting culinary journey and shape a landmark restaurant.
- Qualifications: Experience as Executive Chef or Head Chef, with a passion for Thai cuisine.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 90000 £ per year.
Chaiyo Restaurants, in partnership with JKS Restaurants, is seeking a talented and passionate Executive Chef to lead an extraordinary new chapter — a landmark fine dining Thai restaurant opening in Central London.
If you're ready to be part of one of the most exciting new openings in London's culinary scene, working alongside a world-class team committed to delivering exceptional food and genuine Thai hospitality at the very highest level, we want to hear from you.
Chaiyo was born from Chef Luke Farrell's near two-decade love affair with Thailand — its food, its spirit, and its people. Chaiyo has built a reputation for restaurants that carry the true soul of Thai life into the heart of London. Each venue is an expression of a culture Luke has called home, celebrated through vibrant food, warm hospitality, and an infectious passion for sharing it all.
Central to Chaiyo's ethos is Luke's Ryewater Nursery in Dorset, where a growing collection of tropical greenhouses supplies the restaurants with the brilliantly fresh herbs and aromatics that are essential to genuine Thai cooking — an extraordinary commitment to quality and provenance that sets Chaiyo apart.
As Executive Chef, you will be the culinary heartbeat of this exciting new venture. You will be responsible for the delivery of consistent, innovative, and technically exceptional dishes across the entire operation, playing a pivotal role in menu development and shaping the culinary identity of the restaurant from the ground up. You will manage all kitchen operations and provide clear, inspiring leadership to your brigade.
If you have the following, we want to hear from you:
- Previous experience as an Executive Chef or Head Chef in a quality restaurant, preferably at Michelin Star level
- A deep understanding and genuine passion for Thai cuisine, its regional diversity, and its cultural significance
- Strong awareness of culinary trends, ingredient seasonality, and provenance
- A highly creative approach to your work with exceptional attention to detail
- Proven ability to manage, train, and motivate a kitchen brigade to perform at the very highest level
- Experience managing staff costs, scheduling, and reviewing rotas
- Strengths in finance, purchasing, and menu costing
- A thorough working knowledge of health and safety, compliance, and procedures
This is a very exciting opportunity not to be missed for a talented Executive Chef eager to join a restaurant group with ambitious plans. At Chaiyo, we believe in a culture that truly backs our people. Hospitality is a people industry, and we're committed to rewarding the hard work and loyalty that makes us who we are.
Award-Winning Workplace Recognised as one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2026.
Dining & Hospitality:
- Dine Out Allowance - Quarterly peer to peer at competitor restaurants
- Lunch for 2 after probation
- Up to 50% off dining across JKS restaurants
- CODE App membership - Discount at some of the UK's best restaurants
- Self care salary - £1,200 additional salary to spend on your self care.
- Discounted gym membership with up to 25% off at 4,000+ venues across the UK
- 24/7 Doctor & prescription services for peace of mind healthcare
- 8 free counselling sessions to support your mental wellbeing
- Employee Assistance Program providing confidential support when you need it
- Health, legal, money and debt support services available
Entertainment:
- Up to 55% off cinema tickets
- Up to 25% off UK attractions (London Eye, Thorpe Park, SEA LIFE, and more)
- Up to 15% cashback at 70+ major retailers across the UK
- Wagestream - stream a portion of your pay earlier when you need it
- Access to financial advice to help with your financial planning
- Company donations for your involvement with charities
Special Occasions & Recognition:
- Wedding gift & newborn care package - celebrating your big occasions
- Staff parties & long service awards recognising your commitment
- Employee referral scheme - earn up to £600 per referral
- Additional holiday for every year with us (rising to 30 days)
The Group JKS Restaurants was founded by siblings Jyotin, Karam and Sunaina Sethi in November 2008. The group has received critical acclaim and industry recognition since its inception, including 8 Michelin stars, 4 Michelin Bib Gourmands.
The JKS portfolio currently includes Michelin Starred restaurants Trishna, Gymkhana, Kitchen Table, Sabor, Legado and Ambassadors Clubhouse; as well as cult favourites Hoppers, Brigadiers, Berenjak, Plaza Khao Gaeng, Speedboat Bar and Bibi.
JKS Restaurants offers a unique chance to either pursue a career in fine dining or develop within casual trend focused cuisine, with opportunities across all disciplines for those looking to progress their careers within a people focused, collaborative hospitality group.
Executive Chef - New Opening in London employer: Plaza Khao Gaeng
Chaiyo Group is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that celebrates the art of Thai cuisine in the heart of Central London. With a commitment to employee well-being, including generous benefits like a self-care salary and discounted gym memberships, Chaiyo fosters an environment where culinary talent can thrive and grow. Join a world-class team dedicated to delivering extraordinary dining experiences while enjoying opportunities for personal and professional development in one of London's most exciting new restaurant openings.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Chef - New Opening in London
✨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 Plaza Khao Gaeng. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Plaza Khao Gaeng
Don't be shy about reaching out to Plaza Khao Gaeng 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 Executive Chef - New Opening in London
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 Plaza Khao Gaeng 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 Plaza Khao Gaeng
✨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!
