At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and cook delicious Italian dishes in a vibrant open kitchen.
- Company: Zizzi, known for bubbly pizza and fresh pasta since 1999.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, free meals, discounts, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Embrace your individuality in a supportive and energetic environment.
- Why this job: Join a fun team, learn culinary skills, and grow your kitchen career.
- Qualifications: No experience needed, just a positive attitude and love for food.
Entry Level Chef £12.71 per hour plus tronc and benefits
Our Story
You'll know us for bubbly pizza, fresh pasta, and good times. Zizzi started in 1999 with a little wine, a big oven, and the dream of doing Italian food, our way. We don't do bland food, people or restaurants.
About The Role
As a Trainee Chef, you'll get to learn how to stretch dough and make perfect al dente pasta in our open kitchen. You don't need any previous chef experience - we'll teach you the skills to build a kitchen career. We're looking for a team player ready to learn, with a great attitude, and a love for food.
What you'll do:
- Prepare and cook our menu to spec in a busy, high-energy open kitchen where our guests can see the magic happen.
- Take absolute pride in the quality of every dish that leaves your section, ensuring it turns heads every time.
- Master our menu and specs inside and out to ensure service remains fast and consistent during busy rushes.
- Maintain a spotless kitchen and follow all food safety procedures to the highest standard.
- Work closely with the rest of your team to keep the kitchen running smoothly and the energy high.
- Flexible hours and the guaranteed stability of a minimum-hour contract.
- Free meals when you're on shift, and 50% off when you aren't.
- Access your earned wages whenever you need them with Stream.
- Discounts on travel, cinema, and top brands.
- 24/7 Virtual GP and Employee Assistance Program.
- Career development opportunities. We'll help you grow to Chef, then even to Head Chef.
- This is an entry-level chef role, so you don't need any kitchen experience. Just a positive attitude, a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn.
- A love for Italian ingredients and a genuine desire to master the Zizzi menu.
- A reliable team player who stays calm when things get busy
- Positive energy for a busy, high-energy environment.
- Reliable and available for evenings, weekends, and busy holiday periods.
We want you in the kitchen, as you are, from day 1. We love individuality - bold tattoos, bad singing, big laugh, brave choices. We're a Times Top 500 Employer because we celebrate everyone's differences. While we're on that, we're also the only Italian restaurant in the FT's UK's Best Employers 2026 Special Report (for working conditions, salary, potential for development and company image). #J-18808-Ljbffr
Entry Level Chef - UK in Kingston upon Thames employer: Zizzi Restaurants
Zizzi Restaurants in Newport is an excellent employer, offering a vibrant and family-like atmosphere where team members are valued and supported. With competitive pay, generous perks like 50% off meals and free menu items during shifts, as well as opportunities for personal growth within the restaurant industry, Zizzi fosters a culture of teamwork and enjoyment, making it a rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Entry Level Chef - UK in Kingston upon Thames
✨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 Zizzi Restaurants. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Zizzi Restaurants
Don't be shy about reaching out to Zizzi Restaurants 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!
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 Zizzi Restaurants 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 Zizzi Restaurants
✨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!
