At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a talented kitchen team and create exceptional seasonal dishes.
- Company: Join Harts Group at the iconic Quo Vadis in Soho, London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, and 50% off food and drink.
- Other info: Enjoy career development, coaching, and a supportive team culture.
- Why this job: Work with acclaimed Chef Jeremy Lee and shape a historic restaurant's future.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in quality restaurants.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
We are looking for an exceptional Head Chef to join Harts Group and lead the kitchen at Quo Vadis, one of London's most celebrated restaurants and members' clubs. This is a rare opportunity to work alongside acclaimed Chef Proprietor Jeremy Lee and help shape the next chapter of an institution that has been at the heart of Soho for over 100 years.
Quo Vadis is a historic Restaurant and Private Members Club in London with a colourful past and a timeless allure. Formerly a home to Karl Marx, Quo Vadis is something of a Soho institution, attracting an eclectic crowd who are drawn to the good things in life. The critically acclaimed restaurants serve seasonal, Modern British Cuisine, with a monthly menu conjured up by renowned MBE awarded Chef Jeremy Lee and his culinary team. With an exuberant private members’ club upstairs, Quo Vadis also boasts three handsome private dining rooms, both beautifully appointed and very well attended to. Jeremy is inspired by his boundless passion for the finest regional ingredients from Britain and further. His food is as bold and generous as his personality.
Meaningful Rewards at Harts Group
- Head Chef salary of £61,321 based on 48hrs per week, plus potential bonuses
- Monthly Quo Vadis & Friends Event sharing the kitchen with incredible Chefs from the best Restaurants in the UK
- 50% Off all Food & Drink across all Harts Group
- Sit down meals with you and your team
- Increasing holiday allowance on top of your 28 days paid holidays
- Monthly food & drink tastings to keep your tastebuds busy
- Flexible rotas wherever possible, full- and part-time positions available
- Career development, 1-on-1 coaching and training opportunities
- Enhanced Maternity & Paternity packages
- Access to Wagestream Platform where you can access your wages early and manage your money
- A paid volunteering day to support our communities and causes that matter to you
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Access to Hospitality Action to support your wellbeing in and out of work
- CODE membership with amazing discounts in the Hospitality Industry
Harts Group Way
We’re excited to hear from candidates who bring curiosity, commitment, and a passion for Hospitality. We believe in creating an inclusive, diverse, and equal workplace where everyone is valued. In return, we offer competitive salaries, opportunities for career development, and continuous training, all within a supportive and friendly team where camaraderie and mutual respect are at the heart of everything we do.
The Head Chef role:
- At least one year's experience as a Head Chef in a quality-led restaurant, or an accomplished Senior Sous Chef ready to take the next step
- Work alongside Chef Proprietor Jeremy Lee to develop and deliver menus for the restaurant, Members' Lunches, Private Dining Rooms and special events
- Lead and inspire a talented brigade of 13 chefs, creating a positive, supportive and high-performing kitchen culture
- Manage all sections of the kitchen and lead service with confidence
- Maintain the highest standards of food quality, consistency, presentation and guest experience
- Champion seasonal, ingredient-led cooking with an uncompromising approach to quality
- Create an environment where chefs feel valued, respected and able to perform at their best
- Take ownership of ordering, stock management, wastage control, menu costing and GP performance
- Work closely with the Operations Team and Financial Cost Controller to manage kitchen finances and achieve GP targets
- Manage rotas, holidays, performance reviews and day-to-day team planning
- Excellent knowledge of menus, ingredients, allergens, and adherence to all Food Safety and Health & Safety standards
- Maintain accurate kitchen administration and confidently use kitchen management systems
- Communicate effectively and clearly at all times
- Be the face of a Group known for its warm welcome and guest care
- Be highly organised, hands-on and calm under pressure
- Have a strong understanding of both classical and modern cooking techniques
- Demonstrate a genuine appreciation for seasonal produce, Mediterranean flavours and ingredient-led cooking
- Interest and love for British food and culture
- Passion for the Hospitality Industry and your own development is a must
Harts Group
Harts Group is a community of talented individuals, creating award-winning food, drink and offering industry-leading service. The portfolio includes Barrafina, Parrillan, Quo Vadis, El Pastor Restaurants, The Drop, Two Drops, El Siete and Bar Daskal.
Apply for the Head Chef role today and a dedicated member of our talent team will be in touch.
Head Chef employer: Quovadissoho
Harts Group is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture at Quo Vadis in the heart of Soho, London. With competitive salaries, flexible rotas, and a strong focus on employee development, including 1-on-1 coaching and career growth opportunities, we foster an inclusive environment where creativity and passion for hospitality thrive. Enjoy unique benefits such as monthly tastings, generous discounts, and a paid volunteering day, all while working alongside acclaimed Chef Jeremy Lee in a historic and celebrated restaurant setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head 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 Quovadissoho. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Quovadissoho
Don't be shy about reaching out to Quovadissoho 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 Head 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 Quovadissoho 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 Quovadissoho
✨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!
