Head Cafe Chef

Job Description

We are a daytime café serving beautifully crafted food and drinks in a relaxed environment. Menu items differ weekly reflecting the change in seasons and we work with the best suppliers available. 

The role includes managing the smooth running of all kitchen operations and overseeing the small kitchen team with an emphasis on learning and development. You will have lots of autonomy to develop your own skillset and hone your creativity. If you have a particular interest we will always try to make time for you to explore and grow this. 

The position is fulltime with half a day admin time off the floor when required to focus on menu creation and admin tasks. You will have two consecutive days off including one weekend day each week.

The role includes:

• Preparing and cooking dishes with care, developing recipes, and ensuring consistent quality and presentation.
• Overseeing daily baking operations, including cookies, cakes, tarts, and other baked goods.
• Identifying and sourcing high-quality, locally produced ingredients and suppliers who share our ethos.
• Developing and executing menus for on and off site catering jobs.
• We are a small team so chipping in with dishes and any other tasks in the café that contribute to a smooth service is essential.
• Working closely with our front-of-house team to ensure a seamless and efficient experience for our customers.
• Staying up to date with the latest food trends, techniques, and innovations 

Job Requirements

• 2 years’ experience as a Chef in a café or similar environment, with a focus on daytime dishes.
• Proven people management experience 
• A genuine passion for food and a strong knowledge of culinary techniques, flavour combinations, and seasonal ingredients.
• A passion for creating innovative and visually appealing dishes, using seasonal ingredients 
• A desire to contribute to menu design, aiming for a well-balanced offering that caters to different dietary requirements
• Meticulousness in food preparation and presentation
• Strong communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with the team
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment
• Understanding of food safety to maintain a safe kitchen
• Confidence and ability to be autonomous 
• Happy to work closely with the front-of-house team to ensure smooth service
• Baking experience

Hours & Perks

• Full-time position 43 hours per week
• Fixed rota
• One weekend day off every week
• Additional hours occasionally available for events and holiday cover
• Overtime is paid

Perks include

• Staff meals on shift
• Cost-price wine and food ingredients
• One free bag of coffee each week
• Monthly team socials
• Monthly research & development allowance
• Being part of a close-knit, supportive and creative team environment

Job Location

20- 22 Toynbee St
London E1 7NE