At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team and create delicious dishes with open-fire cooking.
- Company: The Barbary Notting Hill, a vibrant and acclaimed restaurant celebrating diverse cuisines.
- Benefits: Career progression, paid development courses, generous staff discounts, and free meals.
- Other info: Embrace diversity and be part of a supportive, award-winning hospitality team.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and make an impact in a high-energy kitchen environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in high-calibre restaurants and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Bringing the spirit of The Barbary to West London, The Barbary Notting Hill celebrates the elemental flavours and open-fire cooking of the Barbary Coast — from Southern Europe to Northern Africa — centred around our iconic horseshoe kitchen counter and vibrant dining room.
We are looking for a dynamic and experienced Sous Chef to join the team.
- A vibrant personality accomplished in the hustle and bustle of a high-energy kitchen environment. In our open kitchen, you will engage with our guests as they watch our dishes come to life whilst confidently managing the flow of service over the pass.
- Passionate about cooking with fire and interested in the cuisine of North Africa through to Southern Europe. Experience with similar cooking techniques in a busy, high-calibre restaurant is key.
- A strong, nurturing leader. You will grow the team around you and support the previously starred Head Chef in developing the next generation of talent to ensure consistently high standards.
- Collaborative and creative. You’ll be working closely with The Barbary Notting Hill Head Chef and Senior Management team to develop the ever-evolving menu and contribute to the continued success of The Barbary Notting Hill.
- Calm under pressure and adaptable. You will be confident leading the kitchen team on shift and running a busy service, maintaining consistency and the highest standards.
- Comfortable with admin duties and commercially minded, with a handle on kitchen financials. You will support the Head Chef to ensure that all systems and procedures are successfully followed.
Our benefits include excellent opportunities for progression and development, a balanced rota with a variety of daytime and evening shifts, up to £2,000 Employee Referral Scheme available to all, paid development courses, generous staff discount of up to 50% across all our Studio Paskin venues, cost price wine and supplier discounts, enhanced parental leave package, and partnership with Kelly's Cause and automatic enrolment onto Hospitality Action’s Employee Assistance Programme.
As one of CODE’s Top 25 Hospitality Happiest Places to Work in the UK 2025, we see looking after our team not as a perk, but as a responsibility. At work, you will always have access to free staff meals, proper breaks, and Mental Health First Aid-trained managers to support you.
We are committed to creating spaces where everyone feels comfortable and valued for who they are. We celebrate diversity and encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences.
Our success at The Barbary Notting Hill and its sister venues at Studio Paskin is underpinned by an open-minded, compassionate and enthusiastic belief in the power of heartfelt hospitality. We create places where we want to go, combining elegance, professionalism, and style, and earning us critical acclaim and multiple awards. We want you to be a part of it.
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 The Barbary Notting Hill. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to The Barbary Notting Hill
Don't be shy about reaching out to The Barbary 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 The Barbary 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 The Barbary 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!
