Descripción
Head Chef
About us:
Steeped in history, the White Bear theatre pub has been on this site since c.1780, serving great beer and ales. After an impressive refurbishment in 2016, the White Bear’s interior is a stunning blend of traditional charm and modern design, complete with an eclectic collection of artwork and bric-a-brac.
On the original wooden bar, you’ll find a fantastic selection of craft beers, ales and lagers, alongside an extensive wine list and a carefully curated collection of spirits and whisk(e)y.
But we’re not just about drinks! We are proudly food-led, serving high-quality, seasonal dishes that showcase the best of British produce, with a focus on flavour, creativity, and elevated pub classics done right.
When the sun shines, enjoy your favourite tipple in the beer garden, also home to our very own beehives.
Nearest public transport – Kennington.
About the role:
At The White Bear, we believe no two places should ever feel the same and that starts in the kitchen.
Our food vision is rooted in elevated classics, where traditional favourites are reimagined with creativity, precision, and a deep respect for British seasonality. From beautifully executed Sunday roasts to refined, flavour-led dishes, everything we serve is crafted using fresh, seasonal ingredients at their absolute peak.
This is a pub that is proudly food-led, where the menu is not static, but constantly evolving. As Head Chef, you’ll have the freedom to shape that journey: creating dishes that reflect the character of the pub, the changing seasons, and your own culinary identity. Whether it’s working with local produce, developing standout specials, or refining classics into something exceptional, your stamp will be felt in every plate that leaves the pass.
We don’t just cook we create experiences. The White Bear is a place where great food, great atmosphere, and genuine hospitality come together, and the kitchen sits right at the heart of it all.
What we offer our Head Chef
1. Full creative autonomy to design your own menus and daily specials
2. Access to our Apprenticeship Scheme and Development Programmes
3. Culinary masterclasses covering game, butchery, shellfish, and more
4. Opportunities for inspirational supplier trips to connect with the best produce
5. Regular Chef Forums to collaborate, inspire, and grow with other Head Chefs
6. Free meals on shift
7. 20% discount across all Young’s pubs and 30% off stays in our pubs with rooms
8. Share Save Scheme
9. Enhanced Company Pension Scheme
10. 28 days holiday per year
What we’re looking for in our Head Chef
We’re looking for a leader who brings energy, creativity, and genuine passion for food someone who wants to make The White Bear a destination known for outstanding, elevated dining.
11. Proven experience delivering high-quality, fresh food as a Head Chef
12. A natural ability to inspire, mentor, and develop a team, leading by example every day
13. Hands-on approach with excellent communication and leadership skills
14. Strong organisational skills to manage rotas, training, and kitchen operations seamlessly
15. A sharp eye for GP, labour control, and kitchen efficiency
16. The creativity and confidence to design dishes that stand out and keep guests coming back
17. A proactive mindset, working closely with front of house to drive sales, grow the business, and elevate the guest experience
At The White Bear, this isn’t just a Head Chef role, it’s an opportunity to own the food identity of a truly food-led pub, push standards, and build something people talk about long after they’ve left.