Chef - Banana Tree Milton Keynes

Big Table Group; Milton Keynes; On-site; GBP 15,000 - 21,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hourly pay

Tronc opportunities

50% employee discount

Flexible working

Career growth programs

Employee wellbeing & support

Wages advance & other perks

Job summary

Banana Tree is recruiting a chef to join our lively kitchen in Milton Keynes. You’ll help organise service across one or more sections, collaborate with the team to deliver authentic Southeast Asian dishes, and support junior staff to maintain smooth operations.

We welcome a positive attitude, a love for food, and a willingness to learn. This role offers hourly pay, with opportunities for progression, flexible contracts, and employee benefits, all within a friendly team.

Qualifications

• Love for food and good palate.
• Enjoy working in a fast-paced kitchen as part of a small or large team.
• Strong work ethic and positive attitude.

Responsibilities

• Organise, coordinate, and deliver service across kitchen sections.
• Work closely with the kitchen team to prepare dishes to specification.
• Support and guide junior kitchen staff and porters.
• Ensure prep and organisation for each service.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene in the kitchen.

Job description

Your Adventure Starts Here as a Chef

At Banana Tree, we don’t just serve food—we serve up journeys. If your heart beats faster at the thought of wandering through the jungles of Borneo or soaking in the vibrant energy of a Malaysian night market, you’re in the right place.

From the fiery kick of a Laksa to the comforting crunch of a weekend Katsu, every dish we create is a passport to Southeast Asia. Our kitchens are alive with bold flavours, sizzling woks, and the spirit of discovery.

This isn’t just a job—it’s your launchpad to something bigger. Join us, and let your career take off with colour, culture, and unforgettable cuisine.

At Banana Tree, our food takes you places.

Why Join Banana Tree?

We know that happy teams create the best experiences, so we offer:

• Hourly pay and opportunity to earn Tronc
• A Place for Everyone – We celebrate individuality and believe our differences make us stronger. Whoever you are, if you bring enthusiasm and a great work ethic, there’s a place for you in our kitchen!
• 50% Employee Discount – Enjoy discounts across Big Table Group brands, plus 25% off for friends & family.
• Flexible Working – Negotiable contracts to suit your lifestyle.
• Career Growth – Fully funded Production Chef Level 2 apprenticeships and development programs
• Wellbeing & Support –Our Employee Assistance Programme includes a 24/7 virtual GP, mental health support, healthcare cash plan, dental plan, counselling, fitness & diet plans.
• Perks & Rewards – Access wages before payday, salary finance support, discounted gym memberships, and savings on theme parks, shopping, and entertainment.
• Team Celebrations – Competitions, team parties, and even a chance to win e-points to spend on your favourite retailers

What You’ll Do as a Chef:

• Organise, coordinate, and deliver service across one or more sections in our fast-paced kitchen.
• Work closely with the kitchen team to produce delicious dishes to specification.
• Support and guide kitchen assistants and porters
• Ensuring your section is prepped and organised for service
• Maintain a spotless kitchen, ensuring the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene.

Who We’re Looking For:

If you love food, enjoy working as part of a close‑knit team, and thrive in a fast‑paced kitchen environment, you could be exactly who we’re looking for.

At Banana Tree, our kitchens are the heartbeat of the restaurant. From prepping fresh ingredients to cooking dishes our guests love, you’ll play a key role in delivering great food, every time. You’ll be part of a supportive, friendly team where you can learn new skills, build confidence, and take pride in what you do.

We’re proud to be an inclusive workplace where everyone belongs. If you need any reasonable adjustments during the hiring process, just let us know – we’re always happy to help.

Thinking about using AI tools for your application? They can help you get started, but what really stands out to us is you – your enthusiasm, teamwork, and willingness to get stuck in.

You don’t need loads of experience – just a genuine love for food, a positive attitude, and a great team mindset. If you enjoy working behind the scenes to create something special on the plate, we’d love to welcome you into the Banana Tree kitchen.