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- Tasks: Lead a talented kitchen team and create innovative Asian-inspired menus.
- Company: Join the prestigious Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, part of Relais & Châteaux.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, ongoing training, meals on shift, and generous gratuities.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team in a Michelin-recommended restaurant with a focus on creativity.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef or strong Sous Chef with knowledge of Asian cuisines.
- Other info: Enjoy a collaborative environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 50000 £ per year.
At Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, we proudly offer two distinct luxury establishments situated on separate estates, yet operated seamlessly as one cohesive team. Whether you opt for the laid-back ambiance of Gilpin Hotel or the distinct combination of hotel and country house at Gilpin Lake House, your experience with us is designed to be effortlessly harmonious.
Set within the five‑star Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, Gilpin Spice is a 2‑AA‑Rosette, Michelin-recommended open‑plan restaurant serving pan‑Asian dishes with flair, fire, and finesse. It’s fast-paced, full of personality, and loved by guests for its immersive, relaxed luxury. We’re now looking for an exceptional Head Chef to lead this exciting restaurant into its next chapter.
The Role of Head Chef
As Head Chef, you’ll take ownership of the kitchen - driving creativity, consistency, and an outstanding guest experience. You’ll lead a talented brigade, develop menus that celebrate the spice trail, and ensure the highest standards of quality, safety, and organisation.
What You’ll Be Doing as a Head Chef
- Leads and inspires the Gilpin Spice kitchen team.
- Designs innovative, flavour‑driven menus rooted in Asian cuisines.
- Manages kitchen operations, stock, GP, and compliance.
- Trains, develops, and mentors chefs and kitchen porters at all levels.
- Collaborates with senior leadership on strategy, guest experience, and brand evolution.
- Upholds Gilpin’s values of warmth, excellence, and genuine hospitality.
What We’re Looking For
- A Head Chef or strong Sous Chef ready to take the next step.
- Deep knowledge of Asian flavours and cooking techniques.
- A creative, energetic leader who thrives in a busy open kitchen.
- Someone who values people, culture, and team development.
- Someone who will lead the kitchen with an unwavering commitment to food safety, legislative compliance, and the highest operational standards.
- A passion for delivering exceptional food with consistency and flair, whilst enhancing the guest experience at every opportunity.
What We Offer
- The chance to be part of a driven and collaborative team.
- Ongoing training and development opportunities.
- Meals on shift, uniform, generous gratuities.
- The pride of contributing to a property recognised with 5 AA Red Stars, and two Michelin Keys.
- The prestige of working within two of the world’s most respected hospitality networks: Relais & Châteaux and Pride of Britain Hotels.
If you’re ready to bring your talent, imagination, and leadership to one of the region’s most exciting restaurants, we’d love to hear from you.
Location: Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, Windermere
Position: Full-Time | Competitive Salary | Flexible start for the right candidate
Salary: from £45,000 to £50,000 depending on experience, plus structured gratuities (average of £877 per month)
Head Chef in Windermere employer: The Inn at Hastings Park
Contact Detail:
The Inn at Hastings Park Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in Windermere
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the restaurant! Before your interview, check out Gilpin Spice's menu and vibe. This way, you can chat about how your culinary style fits in and show that you're genuinely interested in what they do.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff on LinkedIn. They can give you insider info about the kitchen culture and what it’s really like to work there, which can help you stand out during your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your creativity! Prepare a few unique dish ideas that align with their pan-Asian theme. Presenting your vision for the menu can really impress them and demonstrate your passion for the role.
✨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 Chef in Windermere
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food: When you're writing your application, let your love for cooking and Asian cuisine shine through. Share your experiences and what inspires you in the kitchen – we want to see that fire and flair!
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Head Chef role. Highlight your relevant experience, especially in leading teams and creating innovative menus. We appreciate a personal touch that shows you've done your homework on us!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We’re busy folks, so make it easy for us to see why you’re the perfect fit. Use bullet points where possible to highlight your key achievements and skills.
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 ensures you don’t miss out on any important details about the role. Plus, we love seeing applications come through our own channels!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Inn at Hastings Park
✨Know Your Flavours
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Asian flavours and cooking techniques. Be prepared to discuss how you can incorporate these into innovative, flavour-driven menus. Show them that you’re not just a chef, but a culinary artist who understands the essence of the cuisine.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head Chef, you'll need to inspire and lead your team. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully trained or mentored others. Share stories that highlight your ability to create a positive kitchen culture and how you handle challenges in a busy environment.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Guest Experience
Gilpin Hotel & Lake House values exceptional guest experiences. Be ready to talk about how you’ve enhanced guest satisfaction in previous roles. Whether it’s through menu design or service style, show them that you understand the importance of creating memorable dining experiences.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about their vision for Gilpin Spice and how they see the role of Head Chef evolving. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
