Do you love cooking great food and enjoy running a small, fast-paced café kitchen on your own?
At Redemption Roasters, we believe great coffee (and food!) can change lives. Our mission is to reduce reoffending by training people in prison and supporting them into employment on release — often in our own cafés.
We’re looking for a full-time Café Chef / Kitchen Leader to take ownership of our small Islington kitchen and deliver fantastic, delicious brunch plates, toasted sandwiches, soups and counter food.
This role is perfect for someone who cares about deliciousness, detail, consistency and above all, great hospitality.
You Will:
- Lead brunch service (Fri–Sun) with confidence, organisation and pace.
- Prepare, cook and plate dishes to spec with care and precision.
- Batch-prep sandwich fillings, soups and counter dishes during the week.
- Maintain excellent cleanliness, food safety and overall kitchen organisation.
- Create simple specials and contribute to menu development.
- Manage stock, ordering and prep planning efficiently.
- Communicate clearly with your Coffee Shop Manager and FOH team — verbally and in writing - to keep service smooth, ensure nothing is missed, and get the support you need.
- Support our mission and work respectfully alongside programme participants.
You Have:
- Experience as a café chef, brunch chef or similar role in a specialty café, bistro or all‑day dining environment.
- Weekend availability (Fri, Sat, Sun) - mandatory.
- Strong organisation and prep skills, with confidence running a kitchen solo.
- A passion for quality, consistency and plating.
- Solid food safety knowledge, including allergen management.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills - from clear handovers to accurate prep lists, order notes and kitchen updates.
- Right to work in the UK.
You Are:
- Calm, focused and reliable in a small‑kitchen setting.
- Detail‑oriented - you want every plate to look and taste great.
- A clear, proactive communicator with the FOH team and your manager.
- Positive, collaborative and supportive of others.
- Comfortable working independently and taking ownership.
- Someone who thrives in a purpose‑led, values‑driven organisation.
We Will:
- Pay £13.50–£15.00 per hour (plus tips), depending on experience.
- Provide tips, staff meals and unlimited specialty coffee.
- Support your development and progression.
- Welcome you into a mission‑led, supportive team.
Cafe Chef / Kitchen Leader - Islington in London employer: Redemption Roasters
At Redemption Roasters, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that not only values culinary excellence but also champions social change. Working as a Café Chef / Kitchen Leader in our Islington location means joining a passionate team dedicated to transforming lives through meaningful employment opportunities, all while enjoying benefits like competitive pay, tips, and unlimited specialty coffee. Our supportive work culture fosters personal growth and development, making it an ideal environment for those who thrive in a purpose-driven setting.
How to prepare for a job interview at Redemption Roasters
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with the types of dishes Redemption Roasters serves. Be ready to discuss your favourite brunch plates and how you would prepare them. This shows your passion for food and helps you connect with their mission.
✨Showcase Your Kitchen Leadership Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully led a kitchen or managed a busy service. Highlight your organisational skills and how you maintained cleanliness and food safety while keeping up with a fast-paced environment.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly, especially when discussing your communication style with the FOH team and your manager. Being able to convey your ideas effectively is crucial in ensuring smooth service and teamwork.
✨Emphasise Your Passion for the Mission
Research Redemption Roasters' mission and be prepared to discuss why it resonates with you. Share any relevant experiences that demonstrate your commitment to social impact and how you can contribute positively to their goals.
