Junior Sous Chef - Opera Tavern in London

Junior Sous Chef - Opera Tavern in London

London Full-Time 30000 - 40000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Urban Pubs & Bars

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a creative kitchen, crafting seasonal menus and inspiring your team.
  • Company: Join London's biggest independent pub company with a vibrant culture.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, discounts, and 28 days holiday.
  • Other info: Enjoy a lively atmosphere with regular socials and a supportive team.
  • Why this job: Be part of an award-winning team that values creativity and community.
  • Qualifications: Experience as a Snr CDP or Junior Sous Chef in fresh food environments.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.

Join a kitchen that celebrates seasonal menus, champions fresh, locally sourced produce, and takes pride in its community footprint. We nurture each other, value diverse personalities, and believe great food starts with great people.

Urban Pubs & Bars was founded in 2014 and has since expanded to an estate of over 67 pubs, bars and restaurants across London. In 2018, Urban Pubs & Bars was ranked number 28 in the Sunday Times Virgin Atlantic Fast Track 100 list, recognising Britain's private companies with the fastest-growing sales. We were then nominated for 2 Publican Awards in 2020, winning the award for 'Best Managed Pub Company - 2-50 sites' on the night. In 2021, Urban was awarded 'Best Food-led Pub Company 2021' at the R200 awards, Urban once again won 'Best Managed Pub Company - 2-50 sites' in 2023 and most recently won 'Best Managed Pub Company - 2-50 sites' and Best food offering in 2026 and in 2025 & 2026 we were recognised by Sunday Times in the Top 100 Companies to work for.

You Are:

  • A competent Snr CDP or Junior Sous Chef ready for the next step, with a track record of commitment and stability.
  • Driven by great food, seasonal ingredients, and creative flair that gets you buzzing.
  • An approachable, inspirational team leader who brings out the best in your team with a culture of creativity.
  • A clear communicator, well-organized, and always ready for a good laugh.
  • A team player who leaves ego at the door and loves getting things done.
  • Experienced in fresh food kitchen environments-whether in a restaurant or pub setting.
  • Curious: you understand the importance of a compliant and profitable kitchen while maintaining exceptional standards.
  • Ambitious to grow and develop within an award-winning company that supports your career.

What You'll Do:

  • Lead with creativity on seasonal menus, balancing quality, cost, and speed during service.
  • Mentor and inspire your team, fostering a collaborative, high-energy kitchen culture.
  • Maintain rigorous standards for freshness, presentation, and taste, while optimizing workflow.
  • Ensure health, safety, and hygiene compliance across all kitchen operations.
  • Partner with the Snr Chefs on menu development, specials, and seasonal promotions.
  • Drive profitability through efficient prep, portion control, and waste reduction.

What's in It for You?

  • Competitive salary-cha-ching!
  • Work for a Times Top 100 Companies to Work For.
  • Clear pathways for training and career advancement-your growth matters!
  • Discounts across all our pubs, bars, and restaurants-treat yourself!
  • Work with the freshest seasonal produce-bring those flavours to life!
  • Company and team trips, regular socials and incentives-let's explore!
  • Experience a lively, family-oriented atmosphere-where fun meets food!
  • 28 days of holiday to recharge your culinary spirit!
  • Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for your wellbeing-your happiness counts!
  • Fantastic referral scheme with rewards of up to 1000-bring your friends!
  • Celebrate your birthday with a day off on us-party time!
  • Cycle to work scheme.

Interested in hearing more? Get in touch now so we can arrange to meet you, have a laugh and show you around.

Junior Sous Chef - Opera Tavern in London employer: Urban Pubs & Bars

Urban Pubs & Bars is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture, where creativity and collaboration thrive in the kitchen. With clear pathways for career advancement and a commitment to employee wellbeing, you will enjoy competitive salaries, generous holiday allowances, and exciting team events. Join us in London, where your passion for fresh, seasonal produce will be celebrated, and your contributions will make a meaningful impact in our award-winning establishments.

Urban Pubs & Bars

Contact Details:

Urban Pubs & Bars Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Junior Sous Chef - Opera Tavern in London

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 Urban Pubs & Bars. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!

Reach Out Directly to Urban Pubs & Bars

Don't be shy about reaching out to Urban Pubs & Bars 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 Junior Sous Chef - Opera Tavern in London

Culinary Skills
Creativity
Team Leadership
Communication Skills
Organisational Skills
Fresh Food Preparation
Health and Safety Compliance

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 Urban Pubs & Bars 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 Urban Pubs & Bars

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!