Lead Chef

Job Description

Built by a former Senior Wine Buyer at Oddbins and founder of BottleCrate, alongside a former owner of a much-loved Aussie wine bar — we’re opening a new kind of wine bar in SW London.

Think seasonal plates, serious wine, and a space that feels like a friend’s flat — not a formal restaurant.

We’re looking for a Sous Chef ready to step into a Lead Chef role and help shape the kitchen from day one

ABOUT THE COMPANY -

• Balham's brand new effortlessly cool new local wine bar and brunch venue where flat whites turn to funky reds and the vibe always hits just right. 

  Our philosophy: you're not out, you’re just over.

• Set to open in June, we will be the place for locals to come and listen to live jazz and acoustic music while enjoying simple curated top quality food and wine without the heavy price tag. 

KEY BENEFITS & INCENTIVES

• Creative Freedom - Full creativity over menu development & input into dishes.
• Wine & Training - Ongoing wine training & education
• Team Perks - 50% off your bill (up to a party of 4) & free staff meal
• Growth and development - A real Opportunity to build a business from the ground up. Not just a single venue.
• A split of service charge 
• Dental coverage
  
  Why this role is different
• * Small, founder-led team (no corporate layers)
  * Real creative input on menu and direction
  * Wine-led food, not just kitchen output
  * Built for people who care about hosting, not just service
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• What’s on offer
• * £36-42k with clear progression to Head Chef level
  * Wine training and exposure, working alongside a buyer and MW candidate
  * Wine at cost
  * Staff food and discounts
  * A chance to build something properly from the ground up

Job Requirements

Experience & Requirements

* Previous experience as a Sous Chef or strong Chef de Partie ready to step up
* Confident running a small service and managing prep
* Strong understanding of seasonal, ingredient-led cooking
* Interest in wine (or willingness to learn — we’ll teach you)
* Right to work in the UK
* Food Hygiene Level 2 (or willingness to obtain)

We’re far more interested in your palate, attitude, and ideas than formal qualifications.

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Who this suits

A strong Sous Chef who wants more ownership and creativity, is ready to step up, and is looking for a more personal, design-led environment over a traditional kitchen setup.

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Apply

DM me directly or apply here — happy to chat informally first.

Join Charley's in early May to be ready for our doors to open in early June!

Job Location

75 Bedford Hill Road
Balham Sw129HA