Head Waiter/ess - London

Head Waiter/ess - London

London Full-Time 30000 - 32450 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Deliver exceptional service and create memorable guest experiences in a vibrant restaurant.
  • Company: Join the dynamic Thesleff Group, known for exciting hospitality concepts in London.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, private healthcare, study support, and 50% dining discount.
  • Other info: Inclusive culture with regular team celebrations and clear career progression opportunities.
  • Why this job: Be part of a passionate team that values hospitality and career growth.
  • Qualifications: Experience in premium restaurants and strong food and beverage knowledge required.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 32450 £ per year.

Sale e Pepe Mare brings the vibrant spirit of coastal Italy to the heart of London. Located within The Langham, London, the restaurant combines the heritage of the iconic Sale e Pepe brand with a fresh Mediterranean concept centred around exceptional seafood, elegant hospitality, and la dolce vita. We are looking for an experienced Head Waiter / Head Waitress to join our front-of-house team and play a key role in delivering exceptional service and memorable guest experiences.

The Role

As a Head Waiter / Head Waitress, you will take ownership of your section, ensuring every guest receives attentive, knowledgeable, and personalised service from arrival through to departure. Working closely with the Restaurant Management team, Sommeliers, and fellow front-of-house colleagues, the Head Waiter / Head Waitress will help maintain the highest standards of service while contributing to the warm and sophisticated atmosphere that defines Sale e Pepe Mare.

Key Responsibilities

  • Deliver exceptional guest service throughout every shift
  • Take ownership of your section and ensure seamless service delivery
  • Build genuine relationships with guests and anticipate their needs
  • Demonstrate strong menu, wine, and beverage knowledge
  • Support junior team members and lead by example during service
  • Maintain exceptional presentation and service standards at all times
  • Work collaboratively with kitchen and bar teams to ensure smooth operations
  • Handle guest enquiries and requests with professionalism and confidence

Requirements

  • Previous experience as a Head Waiter / Head Waitress or Senior Waiter / Waitress within a premium restaurant environment
  • Strong food and beverage knowledge, with seafood experience advantageous
  • Passion for hospitality and creating memorable guest experiences
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Impeccable attention to detail
  • Positive, professional, and proactive attitude
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced service environment
  • Current right to work in the UK

Benefits

  • Competitive salary
  • Private healthcare following successful completion of probation
  • Study support scheme
  • Complimentary meals whilst on duty
  • 50% dining discount when visiting with family and friends
  • Internal training and development opportunities
  • Clear career progression pathways within Thesleff Group
  • People-focused and inclusive culture
  • Regular team celebrations and social events

About Thesleff Group

Thesleff Group is home to some of London's most exciting hospitality concepts, including Los Mochis, Juno, Luna, Viajante87, Sale e Pepe Mare, and the upcoming MA/NA Mayfair. We are passionate about creating unforgettable guest experiences while providing our teams with opportunities to learn, develop, and build rewarding careers.

Equal Opportunities

Thesleff Group is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and welcome applications from suitably qualified candidates regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic. We believe that diversity strengthens our business and helps us deliver exceptional experiences for our guests and teams alike.

Head Waiter/ess - London employer: Sale e Pepe Mare

At The Langham, London, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that celebrates the art of hospitality. As a Head Waiter/ess at Sale e Pepe Mare, you will enjoy competitive salaries, private healthcare, and opportunities for professional growth within a people-focused environment. Join us to be part of a team that values your contributions and fosters a sense of belonging while delivering memorable experiences to our guests.

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Contact Details:

Sale e Pepe Mare Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Head Waiter/ess - 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 Sale e Pepe Mare. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!

Reach Out Directly to Sale e Pepe Mare

Don't be shy about reaching out to Sale e Pepe Mare 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 Waiter/ess - London

Exceptional Guest Service
Food and Beverage Knowledge
Seafood Experience
Communication Skills
Interpersonal Skills
Attention to Detail
Leadership Skills

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 Sale e Pepe Mare 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 Sale e Pepe Mare

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!