Head Chef – Le Petit Rustique
Location: 28 Castlegate, York
Full-time | 5 days over 7 | 9:00am – 5:30pm | Competitive Salary (DOE) + Tips + Staff BenefitsBe
Part of an Exciting New Chapter
After more than 20 years of serving authentic French cuisine in York, Rustique is opening the doors to its newest venture – Le Petit Rustique.
Located next door to our renowned sister restaurant on Castlegate, Le Petit Rustique is a charming French bistro and neighbourhood wine bar inspired by the cafés and bistros of Paris. Offering relaxed lunches, beautiful French classics and carefully curated evening sharing plates, we're looking for a talented Head Chef to lead the kitchen from day one and help shape this exciting new venue.
This is a rare opportunity to take ownership of a brand-new kitchen while being supported by the experience, reputation and stability of one of York's most loved independent restaurants.
About the Role
As Head Chef, you'll be responsible for leading all aspects of the kitchen operation, ensuring every dish reflects the quality and authenticity our guests expect from the Rustique family.
Working closely with the owners and management team, you'll play a key role in establishing kitchen standards, developing the team and delivering consistently exceptional food in a relaxed yet professional environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the day-to-day running of the kitchen.
- Recruit, train and inspire the kitchen team.
- Maintain consistently high standards of food quality and presentation.
- Manage stock ordering, supplier relationships and food cost controls.
- Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene and health & safety regulations.
- Plan and organise kitchen operations to maximise efficiency.
- Work alongside management on seasonal menu development and new ideas.
- Foster a positive, supportive and professional kitchen culture.
About You
We're looking for someone who:
- Has previous experience as a Head Chef or an experienced Sous Chef ready to step up.
- Has a genuine passion for French cuisine and classic cooking techniques.
- Is an inspiring leader with excellent communication skills.
- Thrives in a busy service while remaining calm under pressure.
- Takes pride in consistency, organisation and attention to detail.
- Understands food cost management and kitchen administration.
- Holds a current Food Hygiene qualification (or is willing to obtain one).
What We Offer
- A daytime-focused working schedule: 5 days out of 7, with typical working hours of 9:00am to 5:30pm, offering an excellent work-life balance compared to many hospitality roles.
- The opportunity to lead the kitchen in an exciting new restaurant opening.
- Competitive salary based on experience.
- Share of generous tips.
- Staff meals on shift.
- Employee discount across the Rustique group.
- A supportive, family-run business with an outstanding reputation.
- Opportunities for creativity, menu input and professional development.
- The chance to be part of an established York hospitality success story while helping create something new.
Pay: £33,000.00-£35,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Discounted or free food
Work Location: In person
