Head Chef needed for a Premium Seafood & Mediterranean concept. £65,000-70,000.
Location: Central London
Salary: £65,000 – £70,000 + £5,000 annual bonus
Start Date: Immediate
Smyth & Co are proud to partner with an exciting and ambitious restaurant group to recruit a Head Chef for one of their flagship venues – a refined seafood-led Mediterranean concept with bold growth plans.
Open daily from noon to midnight, this premium establishment is on the cusp of scaling up from 80–120 covers to 200–250 on peak days. With a reputation for quality, precision, and creativity, this is a rare opportunity to lead a talented kitchen team in an environment that rewards innovation and strong leadership.
The Role:
We are looking for a Head Chef with a solid background in high-end seafood restaurants and Mediterranean cuisine. The successful candidate will work directly with a detail-oriented and passionate owner who is deeply involved in the culinary direction of the business. You’ll be expected to manage all kitchen operations, shape the menu, and lead a team of 15. This is a hands-on leadership role that requires both culinary finesse and operational discipline.
Key Responsibilities:
* Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, including service and prep.
* * Collaborate with ownership on creative menu development.
* * Lead and mentor a brigade of 15, fostering a positive and professional kitchen culture.
* * Ensure consistency and excellence in both lunch and dinner services.
* * Manage kitchen GP, stock, wastage, and payroll using traditional systems.
* * Participate in weekly management meetings with the wider leadership team.
* * Develop strong supplier relationships within the London market.
* * Uphold the highest food safety and hygiene standards.
1.
Candidate Requirements:
* Demonstrated longevity in previous roles is essential.
* * Deep knowledge of seafood and Mediterranean ingredients and techniques.
* * Proven ability to train and manage teams effectively.
* * Excel-based GP and payroll management experience.
* * Calm, proactive leadership style and strong communication skills.
* * Comfortable working closely with an involved and results-driven owner.
2. Interview Process:
* Initial interview (via video or in person)
* * Cook-off: 8-dish tasting (4 starters & 4 mains)
3. Package & Benefits:
* Competitive salary: £65,000 – £70,000
* * Annual bonus of £5,000 (after 12 months)
* * Long-term career growth opportunities within a growing hospitality group
* * Creative freedom in a supportive, high-performance environment
4. Ready to take the next step in your career? Please contact Smyth & Co in strict confidence for further details and to apply.