Pastry Chef

We’re building the opening team for a new restaurant in Fitzrovia, serving an ingredient-led Italian menu. Expect high pace, warm service, and a chance to shape one of London’s most exciting new openings— joining Motorino in Fitzrovia.

About the project: Luke Ahearne (previously of Lita and Luca) has joined forces with Stevie Parle (chef-owner of Town and Pastaio) to open Motorino in Fitzrovia this October. Luke is collaborating with Stevie to execute their joint vision of a modern London-Italian restaurant. For Luke, Motorino follows on quickly from his head chef position at Lita in Marylebone, a Mediterranean bistro, which was awarded a Michelin star in under a year. Luke says, “Opening Motorino with Stevie is a chance to create something new, bold and exciting in central London. For us it’s all about celebrating great produce, cooking with joy, and bringing my perspective on Italian food to Fitzrovia.”

Motorino will showcase the best seasonal produce from Parle’s trusted suppliers, farms and friends in the UK and Ireland. Stevie says, “Luke is a fantastic young chef, passionate about produce, obsessed by quality and consistency, and together we want to create something really special. We’re determined to open the best London-Italian we can. With Luke’s food, Kevin Armstrong’s world class cocktails and a wine list to match, we want to make Motorino the London-Italian this city deserves.”

Our restaurant celebrates seasonal British ingredients through modern & classic Italian dishes, open-fire cooking, whole-animal butchery, and thoughtfully sourced drinks. We work directly with regenerative farmers — including our own herd of cows — and build menus that evolve with the seasons. The group is led by Jonathan Downey, known for the Match Bar Group and Street Feast, now creating a new wave of modern, adaptable hospitality venues.

We’re looking for:

• At least 2 years’ experience in quality restaurants
• Strong guest focus with a natural, confident presence
• Curiosity about food and wine, eagerness to learn
• Ability to handle pace and pressure while staying calm and warm
• Team player with clear communication and consistency
• Passion for creating memorable service in a positive environment
• Happy to have every Sunday off (we’re closed Sundays)

What we offer:

• Competitive hourly rate with tronc — reviewed after probation
• Sundays off, 28 days’ holiday, pension
• Meals on duty, team discounts, progression opportunities
• Paid breaks
• Training and development within a growing group

Previous experience in a kitchen environment is preferred but not essential (1+ year). A passion for food and a desire to learn and grow in the culinary field. Positive attitude and strong work ethic with a willingness to take on new challenges. Ability to work well within a team and communicate effectively. Understanding of basic food hygiene principles is a plus. Right to work in the UK and flexibility to work evenings and weekends.

Competitive Pay & Earning Potential £33,000 - £35,000 indicative annual earnings (based on a 48‑hour week). Hours & rota: full‑time, 5 days over 7 including evenings and weekends; rotas shared in advance. Holiday: 28 days per year including public holidays (pro rata). Perks: meals on duty, generous staff discount, structured training, tastings and clear progression in a growing group. Pension: company pension scheme.

If you’re excited by honest ingredients, collaborative service and the energy of Fitzrovia — apply now and tell us why you’re the right fit for Motorino.