At a Glance
- Tasks: Create mouth-watering dishes in a fast-paced, energetic environment.
- Company: Join a family-run restaurant with over 25 years of experience.
- Benefits: Earn competitive pay, enjoy discounts, and receive excellent tips.
- Other info: Enjoy laundered chef whites and a caring work family atmosphere.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team and progress in your cheffing career.
- Qualifications: Experience in cooking and a passion for fresh ingredients.
Since 1995, Smith & Western have been serving great tasting fresh food, mouth-watering cocktails and belly busting desserts in our authentically themed restaurants across the South. We are a family-run restaurant with over 25 years of experience. Since the day we opened our first restaurant, our passion and energy has soared and business has boomed!
Are you an experienced chef who thrives off a fast paced, energetic atmosphere? Do you love cooking with fresh ingredients to make delicious feasts? If so, then we would love for you to join our wild Western family. You’ll be working with a hardworking team who will support and encourage you to create the tastiest dishes in the West!
We are looking for a chef to work approximately 20 hours (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) a week although full time hours may be available to the right candidate.
You'll need to be:
- An experienced chef who is looking to progress in their cheffing career
- Passionate about food with a real love for cooking with fresh food
- Enthusiastic, energetic and not afraid to roll up your sleeves and jump straight in
- A team player with a kind and helpful nature
- A chef that strives to maintain high hygiene standards
Benefits:
- The chance to earn industry recognised qualifications
- Discounts on S+W food and hotel rooms
- Meals on shift
- Great tips
- Excellent progression opportunities
- Laundered chef whites
- Christmas day and Boxing day closed
- Team incentives and Bonuses
- You’ll be part of a caring and loyal work family
Salary up to £14.50 per hour depending on experience.
Chef in Dorking employer: Smith & Western
At Smith & Western, we pride ourselves on being a family-run restaurant that fosters a supportive and dynamic work environment in Horsham. Our team enjoys a range of benefits including meal discounts, shift meals, and exciting team incentives, alongside ample opportunities for professional growth and the chance to earn industry-recognised qualifications. Join us to be part of a caring work family dedicated to creating delicious dishes with fresh ingredients.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef in Dorking
✨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 Smith & Western. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Smith & Western
Don't be shy about reaching out to Smith & Western 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 Chef in Dorking
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 Smith & Western 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 Smith & Western
✨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!
