Job Title: Chef de Partie – Full-Time
Location: French Living, Nottingham City Centre
About Us:French Living is Nottingham's go-to restaurant for an authentic French experience. Family-owned since 1994, we've grown from a small shop into a welcoming two-floor restaurant, while maintaining our warm, friendly, and unpretentious spirit. Dining at French Living feels like being invited into a French family home.
Our Head Chef has been with us for 27 years, crafting traditional and seasonal French cuisine that is homemade in every detail, from pastry to sauces. Our kitchen team is small (up to 4 chefs), working closely together under the guidance of the Head Chef, with opportunities to learn all aspects of French cooking.
We serve up to a maximum 80 covers across two floors, including busy pre-theatre services just 5 minutes from Nottingham Theatre. We also host themed dining events throughout the year, some of which are very popular and often fully booked.
The Role:We are looking for motivated, passionate chefs to join our kitchen team. This is a hands-on position where you will:
* Be in charge of a specific section of the kitchen (e.g., desserts, starters, etc.) and run the station independently while maintaining high standards
* Work under the Head Chef's supervision to prepare, cook and serve high-quality dishes
* Maintain the highest standards of hygiene, dress, and appearance
* Follow all kitchen procedures, health & safety, and food hygiene standards
* Communicate clearly with Head Chef about quality issues, stock levels, deficiencies, equipment checks, failures and any incidents that have occurred in the kitchen
* Communicate clearly and positively with the service team to ensure a smooth flow during service
* Do basic prep work (chopping, peeling, portioning)
* Learning techniques and recipes under supervision
* Approach all tasks and responsibilities with a positive and proactive attitude
Requirements:
* Passion for cooking and interest in French cuisine
* English fluency preferred; French language a bonus but not essential
* No formal qualifications required, previous kitchen experience is a plus, but motivated learners are welcome; training is provided
* Ability to work in a small, dynamic team
* Ability to stay calm, focused, and efficient under pressure
* Flexibility to adapt to busy and quiet periods
* Good knife and chopping skills are helpful
* Willingness to listen, follow instructions, and apply techniques rigorously
Schedule:
* Full-time, 5 days per week (average 40 hours)
* Two consecutive days off (the restaurant is always closed Sundays & Mondays)
* Day shift: prepping from 10am, lunch service 12–2pm, tidying post-service
* Evening service: 5pm–9pm (may extend during weekends or for special events)
Benefits:
* 28 days annual leave including bank holidays (compulsory days over Christmas and New Year's Eve)
* Supportive, close-knit team environment
* Learn traditional French cooking techniques and recipes from an experienced Head Chef
* Opportunity to develop skills and progress within the team, possibility to move into sous-chef role
* Staff meal provided daily
* Central Nottingham location
Salary: £2,100–£2,300 per month (tips included)Job Type: Full-time, approximately 30–45 hours per week depending on service
Why Join Us?We are small, dynamic and committed. Many of our team have been part of the French Living family for a number of years. If you are ready to experience the support and unity of a small team, be prepared to go the extra mile, stay calm and focused under pressure, then this position is waiting for you Join us to develop your skills, work in a supportive team, and be part of a kitchen with over 30 years of tradition in Nottingham.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £2,100.00-£2,300.00 per month
Work Location: In person