At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Head Chef in leading a vibrant kitchen and delivering exceptional dishes.
- Company: Join SUMI, a beloved Notting Hill restaurant with a focus on Japanese cuisine.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, staff meals, discounts, and clear career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Hands-on development in kitchen leadership and Japanese cooking techniques.
- Why this job: Grow your culinary skills and lead a passionate team in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Junior Sous Chef or strong Senior Chef de Partie is essential.
The predicted salary is between 30348 - 37092 £ per year.
SUMI opened on Westbourne Grove in 2021 and has become one of Notting Hill's most loved neighbourhood restaurants. Created by renowned sushi master Endo Kazutoshi and part of Creative Restaurant Group, SUMI serves nigiri, temaki and dishes from the robata grill, with warm, genuine hospitality at its heart.
As Junior Sous Chef, you will support the Head Chef and Sous Chef in leading the kitchen. You'll keep standards high across every section, every service. Our menu brings together sushi, small plates and dishes cooked over the robata grill, all built on the finest seasonal ingredients. You will lead by example on the stove and on the pass, working as one team with the sushi and front of house teams to deliver food our regulars keep coming back for. This is a brilliant opportunity for an ambitious chef ready to take their next step into kitchen leadership with a growing group.
What You'll Be Doing
- Supporting the Head Chef and Sous Chef in the daily running of the kitchen
- Running the pass and leading service when senior chefs are off
- Making sure every dish leaves the kitchen to recipe and standard
- Overseeing sections and stepping in wherever the kitchen needs you
- Training, guiding and developing Chefs de Partie, Demi Chefs de Partie and Commis
- Helping with ordering, stock control and keeping waste to a minimum
- Supporting rotas, briefings and the smooth running of each service
- Leading by example on food safety, hygiene, HACCP and allergen procedures
- Contributing ideas and taking part in tastings as the menu evolves
- Working closely with the sushi team and front of house to keep service seamless
What We're Looking For
- Previous experience as a Junior Sous Chef or strong Senior Chef de Partie in a quality restaurant is essential. Japanese or robata experience is a real advantage.
- Strong technical skills and excellent attention to detail
- A real respect for produce and an interest in Japanese cuisine
- Confidence leading a section and supporting a team during busy services
- A calm, organised approach under pressure
- Clear communication and a team first attitude
- A good understanding of food safety, HACCP and allergen management
- The drive to keep learning and grow into a Sous Chef role
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and bank holidays
Salary: £45,000 per year including service charge, plus benefits
Why Join Us?
- At Creative Restaurant Group, we want people to build careers, not simply fill roles.
- You will cook alongside an experienced kitchen team inspired by Chef Endo.
- As your skills develop, you'll have genuine opportunities to progress into Sous Chef and Senior Sous Chef positions.
- Join one of Notting Hill's most loved neighbourhood restaurants
- Hands on development in kitchen leadership, Japanese technique and robata cooking
- Clear opportunities for career progression
- The chance to grow across Creative Restaurant Group, including ENDO, Kioku and HUMO
- Staff meals while on duty
- Employee discounts across participating restaurants
Bring your skill, leadership and attention to detail to SUMI Notting Hill, and help us create food our guests remember.
Note: Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK without corporate sponsorship.
Junior Sous Chef employer: SUMI Notting Hill
At SUMI, located in the vibrant Notting Hill, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values our team members' growth and well-being. With competitive salaries, generous discounts, and a culture that celebrates excellence and personal development, we offer a rewarding environment for those passionate about hospitality. Join us to be part of a dynamic team where your contributions are recognised and celebrated, all while enjoying the culinary artistry inspired by renowned sushi master Endo Kazutoshi.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Sous 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 SUMI Notting Hill. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to SUMI Notting Hill
Don't be shy about reaching out to SUMI Notting Hill 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 Junior Sous 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 SUMI Notting Hill 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 SUMI Notting Hill
✨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!
