Chef de Rang - Luxury Restaurant Service Lead

Middleton Lodge Estate [P]; York and North Yorkshire; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Middleton Lodge Estate is recruiting a Chef de Rang for the Coach House Restaurant. You will manage a restaurant section, deliver exceptional service, and work closely with the Restaurant Manager to ensure a seamless dining experience.

Ideal candidates will have fine‑dining experience, strong English, and a passion for hospitality. The role involves advising guests on menus, wines, and pairings, with emphasis on teamwork and high standards of guest satisfaction.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a restaurant, hotel, or fine‑dining environment.
• Experience managing a restaurant section or working in a similar supervisory service position is desirable.
• Strong knowledge of food and beverage service techniques.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Good command of English; additional languages are an advantage.
• Wine knowledge or relevant hospitality qualifications are desirable.
• A recognised food safety qualification is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Welcome guests warmly and provide attentive, personalised service throughout their dining experience.
• Present menus, explain dishes, recommend food and beverage pairings, and answer guest enquiries.
• Take food and beverage orders accurately and communicate special requests, allergies, and dietary requirements to the kitchen.
• Serve food and beverages according to the establishment’s service standards and presentation guidelines.
• Monitor guest satisfaction, anticipate needs, and resolve minor complaints professionally.
• Maintain a discreet, courteous, and professional approach at all times.
• Take responsibility for the smooth operation of an assigned restaurant section.
• Coordinate service with colleagues, kitchen staff, sommeliers, and management.
• Ensure tables are properly set, maintained, and cleared promptly.
• Manage service timing and ensure guests receive their courses efficiently.
• Prepare the restaurant before service and complete closing duties afterwards.
• Maintain cleanliness, organisation, and readiness of the service station.
• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of the menu, ingredients, preparation methods, and presentation.
• Demonstrate knowledge of wines, spirits, cocktails, and other beverages where applicable.
• Make appropriate recommendations to enhance the guest experience and support sales.
• Follow food safety, hygiene, and allergen-management procedures.
• Support and guide team members when required.
• Communicate clearly with the kitchen and restaurant management to ensure seamless service.
• Participate in briefings, training sessions, and menu tastings.
• Contribute to a positive, professional, and collaborative working environment.
• Adhere to company policies, service procedures, grooming standards, and uniform requirements.
• Follow health and safety, food hygiene, and licensing regulations.
• Handle guest bills, payments, and cash accurately when required.
• Minimise waste, protect company property, and maintain responsible stock-handling practices.
• Consistently high standards of guest satisfaction.
• Accurate and timely food and beverage service.
• Effective management of the assigned restaurant section.
• Compliance with service, hygiene, and safety standards.
• Positive contribution to team performance and restaurant revenue.

Skills

Customer service

Interpersonal skills

Organisational skills

Attention to detail

Work under pressure

Leadership

Upselling

Flexibility

Education

Recognised food safety qualification

Hospitality qualifications

Job description

Middleton Lodge Estate is recruiting a Chef de Rang for the Coach House Restaurant. You will manage a restaurant section, deliver exceptional service, and work closely with the Restaurant Manager to ensure a seamless dining experience.

Ideal candidates will have fine‑dining experience, strong English, and a passion for hospitality. The role involves advising guests on menus, wines, and pairings, with emphasis on teamwork and high standards of guest satisfaction.