Head Chef

Divino Enoteca; City of Edinburgh; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A well-known Italian restaurant in Edinburgh is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead their kitchen team. This position requires a culinary professional passionate about authentic Italian cuisine and capable of developing seasonal menus. You will oversee kitchen operations, ensuring the highest standards of food safety and quality. The role offers a competitive salary and the chance to work in a supportive, family-run environment with opportunities for career progression.

Benefits

Discounted or free food

Employee discount

Health & wellbeing programme

Referral programme

Store discount

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a high‑quality restaurant.
• Deep understanding and passion for authentic Italian cuisine and culinary tradition.
• Excellent organisational and time management abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead, train, and inspire the kitchen team to deliver outstanding food and service.
• Develop creative, seasonal menus in line with the restaurant’s Italian heritage.
• Uphold the highest levels of food safety, hygiene, and kitchen organisation.

Skills

Leadership

Time management

Communication

Creativity

Job description

Head Chef - Authentic Italian Restaurant, Edinburgh

Lead with Passion. Cook with Heart. Inspire with Tradition.

The Vittoria Group have been bringing the warmth and flavour of Italian hospitality to Edinburgh since 1970. As a proud third-generation family business, we remain devoted to creating genuine Italian dining experiences - where exceptional ingredients, seasonal produce, and traditional techniques come together to delight every guest.

We are now seeking an experienced and creative Head Chef to lead the kitchen at one of our renowned Italian restaurants. This is a rare opportunity for a driven culinary professional to take the helm of a busy, high-quality kitchen and play a key role in shaping our menu and maintaining the highest standards of Italian cuisine.

The Role

As Head Chef, you’ll take full responsibility for kitchen operations - from leading and developing your team to designing and executing exceptional dishes that reflect the heart of Italy.

You’ll ensure that every plate served meets our standards for flavour, presentation, and consistency, while maintaining a well‑organised, safe, and efficient kitchen.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, train, and inspire the kitchen team to deliver outstanding food and service
• Develop creative, seasonal menus in line with the restaurant’s Italian heritage
• Maintain full control of stock, ordering, and cost management to achieve GP targets
• Uphold the highest levels of food safety, hygiene, and kitchen organisation
• Create a positive, collaborative environment where chefs can thrive and grow
• Work closely with senior management to continually enhance the guest experience

About You

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a high‑quality restaurant
• Deep understanding and passion for authentic Italian cuisine and culinary tradition
• Strong leadership and communication skills
• Excellent organisational and time management abilities
• A calm, confident approach in a fast‑paced kitchen environment
• Commitment to quality, consistency, and creativity

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and performance‑based incentives
• Supportive, family‑run environment with real career progression opportunities
• Freedom to innovate within a respected, established brand
• Staff discounts across all Vittoria Hospitality Group venues
• A warm, professional team culture built on pride and passion

If you’re ready to bring your creativity, leadership, and love for Italian food to one of Edinburgh’s most respected hospitality groups, we’d love to hear from you.

Job Types

Full‑time, Permanent

Pay

£16.00‑£18.00 per hour

Expected hours

40 per week

Benefits

• Discounted or free food
• Employee discount
• Health & wellbeing programme
• Referral programme
• Store discount

Work authorisation

United Kingdom (required)

Work Location

In person