At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a passionate team to create innovative Modern British dishes.
- Company: A creative, intimate restaurant in Central London focused on quality.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, ownership of menu, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Join a tight-knit team prioritising quality and wellbeing.
- Why this job: Shape the culinary identity and celebrate British produce with your creativity.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous with a passion for Modern British cuisine.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 55000 £ per year.
Overview
Location: Central London
Salary Range: £50,000–£55,000 per annum (inclusive of service charge/tronc)
Team Size: Approximately 7 chefs
Concept: Intimate, seasonally inspired Modern British cuisine in a relaxed and personal setting
Why Join Us?
Join a passionate, small-scale kitchen dedicated to celebrating British produce with creativity and care—ideal for an experienced chef looking to shape the culinary identity closely, not scale with it.
What You’ll Do
- Lead, inspire, and manage a tight-knit brigade of seven chefs, ensuring smooth and creative service
- Develop and curate a Modern British menu, driven by seasonality, local ingredients, and culinary innovation
- Oversee daily kitchen operations: costing, ordering, planning rotas, and maintaining high service standards
- Serve as both mentor and creative lead—hands-on in service and behind the scenes
What We’re Looking For
- Solid experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous in a high-quality, ingredient-focused restaurant
- A genuine passion for Modern British cuisine, seasonality, and local sourcing
- Demonstrated leadership and strong organizational skills—able to manage operations end-to-end
- Creativity balanced with consistency—someone ready to uphold culinary standards while injecting personality into dishes
What We Offer
- Salary of £50–55k, including service charge or tronc
- Ownership over the menu and kitchen direction—your creativity, your vision
- A collaborative and supportive environment with room to innovate
- A tightly-knit, respectful team prioritising both quality and wellbeing
Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
Employment type: Full-time
Job function: Art/Creative
Industries: Hospitality and Restaurants
Head Chef in London employer: Smyth & Co
Smyth & Co offers an exceptional work environment in the heart of Mayfair, where creativity and culinary excellence are celebrated. As a Head Chef, you will not only lead a passionate team but also have access to outstanding growth opportunities within a restaurant aiming for Michelin-star recognition. With a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits, this role promises a rewarding career for those looking to make their mark in the culinary world.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef 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 Smyth & Co. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Smyth & Co
Don't be shy about reaching out to Smyth & Co 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 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 Smyth & Co 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 Smyth & Co
✨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!
