At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the kitchen, develop your team, and shape the menu at a beloved restaurant.
- Company: Join SUMI, a renowned neighbourhood restaurant in Notting Hill.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, staff meals, discounts, and clear career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities to grow within Creative Restaurant Group.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team and create memorable dishes with Japanese cuisine.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Sous Chef or strong Junior Sous Chef is essential.
The predicted salary is between 30150 - 36850 £ 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. We're looking for a Sous Chef to join our senior kitchen team and grow with us.
The Role
As Sous Chef, you will work closely with the Head Chef to lead the kitchen and 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 run the pass, develop your team and help shape the menu, 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 experienced chef who wants to lead a busy neighbourhood kitchen within a growing group.
What You'll Be Doing
- Leading the kitchen alongside the Head Chef and running it in their absence
- Running the pass and making sure every dish leaves to recipe and standard
- Leading, training and developing the brigade, from Commis to Junior Sous Chef
- Contributing to menu development, tastings and seasonal changes
- Managing ordering, stock control, supplier relationships and waste
- Helping manage food costs and gross profit targets
- Planning rotas and supporting recruitment for the kitchen team
- Leading on food safety, hygiene, HACCP and allergen procedures
- Running briefings and keeping clear communication with front of house
- Working closely with the sushi team to keep service seamless
What We're Looking For
- Previous experience as a Sous Chef or strong Junior Sous Chef in a quality restaurant is essential. Japanese or robata experience is a real advantage.
- Excellent technical skills and a sharp eye for detail
- A real respect for produce and an interest in Japanese cuisine
- Proven experience leading, training and motivating a kitchen team
- A calm, organised approach under pressure
- A good understanding of food costs, ordering and kitchen admin
- Strong knowledge of food safety, HACCP and allergen management
- Clear communication and a team first attitude
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and bank holidays
Salary: £50,000 per year, plus benefits
Why Join Us?
- At Creative Restaurant Group, we want people to build careers, not simply fill roles.
- You will lead alongside an experienced kitchen team inspired by Chef Endo.
- As your skills develop, you'll have genuine opportunities to progress into Senior Sous Chef and Head Chef positions across the group.
- Lead the kitchen at one of Notting Hill's most loved neighbourhood restaurants
- Real input into menu development
- 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.
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 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 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!
