Head Chef – Shambles Bistro
We are seeking an experienced and passionate Head Chef to lead our award-winning kitchen and help shape the next chapter of Shambles Bistro.
This is an exciting opportunity to join a respected independent restaurant with an AA Rosette and an established reputation for exceptional tapas and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
Shambles Bistro is a small, family-run independent bistro in North Walsham, North Norfolk. We are a relaxed, happy and supportive place to work, and we take care to ensure that everyone enjoys a healthy work-life balance.
The role would suit an ambitious Sous Chef ready for their first Head Chef position, or an experienced Head Chef looking for greater creative freedom within a small, independent business.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and inspire the kitchen team.
- Develop menus featuring fresh, seasonal dishes.
- Ensure consistently high food quality and use feedback from staff and customers to maintain standards.
- Source and order supplies, manage stock, and control costs to maintain GP targets and food margins.
- Maintain a clean, organised kitchen and ensure full compliance with health, safety and food hygiene regulations.
- Recruit, train and develop kitchen staff.
- Manage labour scheduling and staff rotas.
- Work closely with the front-of-house team to deliver an exceptional customer experience.
Requirements
- At least 2 years' experience as a Head Chef, Senior Sous Chef, or in an equivalent leadership role.
- A passion for fresh, seasonal ingredients and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
- Strong leadership and team management skills.
- Proven ability to design and deliver seasonal menus.
- Commitment to exceptional food quality, presentation and consistency.
- Experience in stock management, ordering and cost control.
- Sound knowledge of food safety and hygiene regulations.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with front-of-house colleagues.
What We Offer
- Full-time position, approximately 45 hours per week. Evening and weekend work required, with flexibility to ensure a healthy work-life balance.
- Salary of £35,000–£38,000 per year, depending on experience.
- Tip share ( averagely worth £4700 per annum )
- Opportunity to lead and develop an AA Rosette-awarded kitchen.
- Significant input into menu development and creative direction.
- Pension scheme.
- 28 days paid holiday per year.
- Employee discount.
How to Apply
Please send your CV and a brief covering letter outlining your experience and why you would like to join Shambles Bistro.
Job Types: Permanent, Full-time
Pay: £35,000.00-£38,000.00 per year
Flexible language requirement:
Ability to commute/relocate:
- North Walsham NR28 9BZ: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Experience:
- Cooking: 3 years (required)
Work Location: In person
