At a Glance
- Tasks: Create seasonal dishes and assist in daily kitchen operations at a vibrant restaurant.
- Company: Join the Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve, a unique blend of luxury and nature.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, paid overtime, and amazing perks like free park entry.
- Other info: Work surrounded by wildlife and contribute to real conservation efforts.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team making memorable dining experiences in a stunning setting.
- Qualifications: Experience in fast-paced kitchens and a love for fresh, local ingredients.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 35000 £ per year.
Closing date: 24th July 2026
Salary: Up to £35,000.00 DOE, Plus Desirable Benefits
Paid Overtime, Plus Service Charge (TRONC)
Full-Time, Permanent Position
Based at Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve
At Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve we are recruiting a Sous Chef to work in our flagship Garden Room Restaurant. With a seasonal changing menu using fresh and robust flavours, championing local ingredients and produce from local suppliers. Nestled within 600 acres of the beautiful Kentish savannah, Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve offers an unforgettable setting where nature meets luxury. The Garden Room Restaurant, housed in what was once the mansion’s stable yard, is an inviting, contemporary space where seasonal menus burst with fresh, bold flavours using the finest local ingredients.
Who we are looking for:
An ambitious Sous Chef with a real passion for cooking. Previous experience within a fast paced, fresh food kitchen will be essential. You will assist the Head Chef in the supervision of the overall day to day kitchen operation and develop and create seasonal dishes using produce from our kitchen garden. You will also work closely with front of house managers and teams in order to deliver exceptional customer service.
Contract details:
Working 45 hours a week, five days out of seven, which may include day shifts, evenings, weekends, school holidays and bank holidays. Permanent contract. Paid overtime. A reliable form of transport would be essential due to the remote location of Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve. All applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
The location:
Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve is a world-renowned wild animal park set within 600 acres of Kentish savannah. The Reserve is home to some of the world’s most rare and endangered animals and offers luxury short breaks accommodation, free roaming animal safaris, once-in-a-lifetime animal encounters and exquisite dining experiences. Most importantly, every one of our employees is part of real conservation in action and their efforts have contributed to animals such as black rhino and western lowland gorillas being returned to their natural habitats in collaboration with our partners at The Aspinall Foundation.
Why you should join us:
We’re on a mission to create memorable experiences that matter, and our Core Values ‘One Team’, ‘Customer’ and ‘Pride’ are what drive us each day to become part of something extraordinary. As well as walking to work surrounded by the calls of Howler monkeys and the roars from our pride of Lions, you will join a supportive team who are passionate about their place of work. Be part of the Port Lympne and Howletts family and join our pride.
You can also expect a host of other benefits:
- 28 days of holiday, rising with length of service (pro-rated to start date and working hours)
- Service Charge (TRONC) in addition to salary
- Paid overtime
- Comprehensive training and development opportunities, including workshops and e-learning
- Enhanced Sickness, Maternity and Paternity Policies
- Unlimited free entry for you and a person of your choice into both of our parks as well as friends and family tickets
- Exceptional discounts on food, retail and accommodation at our parks
- Numerous retail discounts and access to a 24‑hour counselling line through our Healthy Extras Scheme
- Company Pension
- And many more length or service-related rewards and Benefits
Please note, this role may close early if we receive a high volume of applications.
Sous Chef - Garden Room Restaurant in Folkestone employer: The Aspinall Foundation
At Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that offers a unique work environment surrounded by nature and wildlife. Our team members enjoy comprehensive training and development opportunities, flexible working hours, and a supportive culture that values teamwork and customer service excellence. With benefits like unlimited free entry to our parks, discounts on food and accommodation, and a commitment to employee well-being, joining us means becoming part of a passionate family dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences for our guests while contributing to real conservation efforts.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef - Garden Room Restaurant in Folkestone
✨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 The Aspinall Foundation. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to The Aspinall Foundation
Don't be shy about reaching out to The Aspinall Foundation 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 - Garden Room Restaurant in Folkestone
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 The Aspinall Foundation 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 The Aspinall Foundation
✨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!
