We are looking for an experienced and passionate Head Chef to lead the kitchen of our busy and well-established Garden Centre Restaurant.
This is a fantastic opportunity for a talented chef who is looking for a role that offers a genuine work-life balance, creative input, and long-term security within a successful independent family business.
About the Role
As Head Chef, you will take responsibility for all aspects of the kitchen operation, leading a dedicated team to deliver high-quality, freshly prepared food to our loyal customer base.
This is more than just a kitchen management role – it's an opportunity to put your own stamp on the menu, influence the direction of the restaurant, and help shape its future success.
What We're Looking For
- Previous experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef ready to step up
- Strong leadership and team management skills with an ability to train others
- Passion for fresh food and excellent presentation
- Ability to manage food costs, stock control, and kitchen compliance
- A positive, hands-on approach and commitment to high standards
The role is a minimum of 40 hours a week. Shift patterns will be 7am-4pm or 8am-5pm. Overtime during the months of November/December until 8pm 2 nights a week.
Why join us?
- Mostly Daytime hours – we only run the occasional late night so the hours are much more social than most restaurants
- Secure, stable business with guaranteed 40 hours contracted minimum
- Busy, high-volume kitchen – perfect for chefs who thrive under pressure
Requirements:
- Previous experience as a Head chef or Sous Chef is required
- Must be able to develop new menu items and ensure that standards are manitained
- To be knowledgeable & up to date with current food hygiene standards & allergen procedures
- Collaborate with the current kitchen team to ensure smooth operation of service
- Maintain a clean and organized work area
- Ensure prep levels are appropriate for the following days service
- Follow proper cooking techniques and presentation guidelines
- Assist with ordering, stock rotating & planning ahead for menu requirements
- Knowledge of food preparation & techniques
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks simultaneously
- Maintaining current high standards or cooking & food preparation
- Good communication, ability to work as part of a team & take lead when current sous chef is off
- Be able to communicate effectively with the FOH team & the floor manager to ensure a smooth & efficient service
- Assist with menu planning, costing & allergens records
- Assist with keeping up to date EHO records
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Work Location: In person
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
- Company events
- Company pension
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
- Free parking
- On-site parking
- Store discount
Pay: £35,000.00-£45,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company events
- Company pension
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Free parking
- On-site parking
- Store discount
Work Location: In person
