About Company
Mangetout Bistro is a vibrant and popular independent restaurant located in the heart of Southend-on-Sea, renowned for its innovative menu, locally sourced ingredients, and commitment to culinary excellence. Since our inception, we have built a reputation for providing an unforgettable dining experience, blending modern European cuisine with a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. Our passionate team thrives on creativity, collaboration, and delivering exceptional service. We believe in nurturing talent and fostering a supportive environment where every team member can grow and contribute to our shared success. Join us and be a part of a kitchen that values quality, flavour, and a genuine love for food.
Job Description
We are on the hunt for a talented and enthusiastic Sous Chef to join our dynamic kitchen team at Mangetout Bistro. This is an incredible opportunity for a dedicated culinary professional ready for an immediate start, eager to contribute their skills and passion to a thriving establishment. As Sous Chef, you will work closely with our Head Chef, playing a pivotal role in daily kitchen operations, menu development, and maintaining our high standards of food quality and presentation. We are looking for someone with a strong background in a busy restaurant environment, who possesses excellent leadership qualities, a keen eye for detail, and a creative approach to modern European cuisine. This role demands a proactive individual who can inspire junior chefs, manage inventory efficiently, and ensure a seamless service from prep to plate. If you are a driven Sous Chef looking to elevate your career within a supportive and forward-thinking team, and you’re ready to hit the ground running, we want to hear from you! You will be integral to upholding our reputation and pushing our culinary boundaries, ensuring every dish that leaves our pass is nothing short of exceptional. We value innovation, teamwork, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist the Head Chef in the overall management and leadership of the kitchen brigade.
- Oversee and participate in the preparation, cooking, and presentation of dishes, ensuring adherence to recipes and quality standards.
- Manage kitchen operations in the Head Chef's absence, including staff supervision, ordering, and inventory control.
- Contribute to menu development, food costing, and supplier management.
- Ensure strict adherence to health and safety regulations, food hygiene standards, and HACCP procedures.
- Train, mentor, and motivate junior kitchen staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
- Monitor food stock levels, minimise waste, and manage kitchen expenditure effectively.
- Maintain a clean, organised, and efficient kitchen at all times.
- Assist with scheduling and rota management for the kitchen team.
Required Skills
- Proven experience as a Sous Chef or highly experienced Chef de Partie in a high-volume restaurant.
- Strong knowledge of modern European cuisine and cooking techniques.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and organisational skills.
- Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
- Solid understanding of food hygiene and safety regulations (HACCP Level 2/3 certificate preferred).
- Creativity and a passion for developing new dishes and enhancing existing ones.
- Ability to manage stock and control costs effectively.
Preferred Qualifications
- NVQ Level 3 or equivalent in Professional Cookery.
- Experience with seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
- A track record of successful team management and development.
- Knowledge of various dietary requirements and allergen management.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary with opportunities for growth.
- Opportunities for professional development and training.
- A creative and supportive work environment.
- Staff discounts on food and beverages.
- Pension scheme.
- Paid annual leave.
- Access to a dynamic and passionate culinary team.
How to Apply
Ready to bring your culinary talents to Mangetout Bistro? Please click on the application link below to submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your experience and why you are the perfect fit for this Sous Chef role. We look forward to reviewing your application!