At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead your section and ensure smooth service during live shows.
- Company: Join the iconic Jazz Cafe, a legendary venue in Camden.
- Benefits: Earn up to £15.50 per hour, plus discounts and bonuses.
- Other info: Enjoy a relaxed dress code and opportunities for global industry trips.
- Why this job: Experience the thrill of live music while delivering top-notch hospitality.
- Qualifications: Two years of experience in a high-volume restaurant and a passion for food and music.
The predicted salary is between 27300 - 32200 £ per year.
We’re looking for a Head Server to join the team at Jazz Cafe. Jazz Cafe is a world-famous, award-winning live music venue in Camden. For over 30 years it has hosted rising stars and global talent across hip hop, soul, jazz, world and electronic music. The restaurant sits on a stunning mezzanine overlooking the stage, creating one of the most unique dining experiences in London, where guests enjoy great food and drinks while watching live music just metres away. It’s a fast‑paced, music‑fuelled environment with a lot going on. We’re looking for someone confident, warm and organised who can run a section smoothly while helping deliver a world‑class guest experience during busy shows.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Leading your section and making sure service runs smoothly throughout the show.
- Welcoming guests with a warm, confident approach and setting the tone for their experience.
- Taking orders clearly and accurately while maintaining pace during busy services.
- Recommending food and drinks with confidence and strong menu knowledge.
- Supporting the team on the floor to maintain high service standards.
- Building positive relationships with guests and colleagues.
What We’re Looking For
- At least two years of experience as a Server, Waiter or Waitress in a high‑volume restaurant.
- Confidence running a section during busy service.
- Experience following structured service steps, including allergen procedures.
- Someone organised, calm and guest‑focused.
- Strong teamwork and communication.
- A genuine interest in hospitality, food, drinks and live music.
What To Expect
- Competitive pay: £13.00 per hour plus tronc (total package up to £15.50 per hour). Hourly wages paid every two weeks on a Friday and tronc paid on the last Friday of the month.
- A fast‑paced working environment where every shift is different.
- A relaxed dress code. No uniforms. Just bring your best self.
Why You’ll Love Working With Us
- 50% off across all Columbo venues, plus free access to our events and festivals.
- Training and development through the Columbo Academy.
- Hero of the Month recognition, including a paid weekend off.
- £50 voucher for top drinks seller incentives.
- Employee referral bonuses of £1,000 for Chef or Manager roles and £250 for hourly roles.
- Opportunities for global industry trips for top performers.
- Pension scheme via Nest.
Head Server employer: The Columbo Group
At Jazz Cafe, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and dynamic work environment in the heart of Camden. Our team enjoys competitive pay, generous discounts across all Columbo venues, and unique opportunities for personal and professional growth through the Columbo Academy. With a focus on recognition and employee well-being, including incentives and global industry trips for top performers, we create a supportive culture where passion for hospitality and live music thrives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Server
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the venue! Before your interview, check out Jazz Cafe's vibe and the kind of music they host. This will help you connect with the team and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their unique atmosphere.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your service skills! Think about how you would handle a busy night at the cafe. Be ready to share examples of how you've kept things running smoothly in high-pressure situations during your previous roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your personality! The Jazz Cafe is all about creating a warm and inviting experience for guests. Let your confidence and passion for hospitality shine through in your conversations with the team.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Server
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Hospitality:When you're writing your application, let your love for hospitality shine through! We want to see that you genuinely enjoy creating memorable experiences for guests, especially in a lively environment like Jazz Cafe.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to mention your previous roles as a Server, Waiter, or Waitress. We’re looking for at least two years of experience, so don’t be shy about showcasing your skills in high-volume settings and how you’ve handled busy services.
Be Confident and Warm:Your written application should reflect the warm and confident approach we value at Jazz Cafe. Use a friendly tone and express how you can set the right atmosphere for our guests, even before they step through the door!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get to know you better. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Columbo Group
✨Know the Venue Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you’re familiar with Jazz Cafe’s history, its music scene, and the menu. This will not only impress the interviewers but also show your genuine interest in the role and the venue.
✨Showcase Your Service Skills
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in high-volume restaurants. Share specific examples of how you’ve successfully managed busy services, handled guest complaints, or built rapport with customers. This will demonstrate your ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Communication
Since this role requires strong teamwork, be ready to talk about how you’ve collaborated with colleagues in the past. Highlight any experiences where effective communication led to a smoother service or enhanced guest satisfaction.
✨Bring Your Passion for Hospitality
Let your love for food, drinks, and live music shine through during the interview. Share why you’re excited about working in a place like Jazz Cafe and how you can contribute to creating memorable experiences for guests.
