Head Chef

Blackberry Farm; Windermere; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A luxury hotel restaurant is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead the kitchen team at Gilpin Spice, known for its pan-Asian dishes. The ideal candidate should have strong leadership skills, deep knowledge of Asian flavours, and a passion for creating innovative menus. This full-time position offers a competitive salary ranging from £45,000 to £50,000, plus structured gratuities, and includes opportunities for ongoing training and development within a prestigious environment.

Benefits

Ongoing training and development opportunities

Meals on shift

Uniform

Generous gratuities

Qualifications

• Experience as Head Chef or strong Sous Chef.
• Deep knowledge of Asian cooking techniques.
• Strong leadership in a busy kitchen environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire the kitchen team at Gilpin Spice.
• Design innovative, flavour-driven menus.
• Manage kitchen operations, stock, and compliance.

Skills

Leadership

Asian flavours knowledge

Creativity

Team development

Job description

Company Description

At Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, we proudly offer two distinct luxury establishments situated on separate estates, yet operated seamlessly as one cohesive team. Whether you opt for the laid-back ambiance of Gilpin Hotel or the distinct combination of hotel and country house at Gilpin Lake House, your experience with us is designed to be effortlessly harmonious.

Gilpin Hotel & Lake House are part of the prestigious Pride of Britain Hotels and we are proud to be one of the 580 members of Relais & Châteaux, an association of worldwide independent hotel and restaurant owners.

Overview

Set within the five‑star Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, Gilpin Spice is a 2‑AA‑Rosette, Michelin-recommended open‑plan restaurant serving pan‑Asian dishes with flair, fire, and finesse. It’s fast-paced, full of personality, and loved by guests for its immersive, relaxed luxury. We’re now looking for an exceptional Head Chef to lead this exciting restaurant into its next chapter.

The Role of Head Chef

As Head Chef, you’ll take ownership of the kitchen - driving creativity, consistency, and an outstanding guest experience. You’ll lead a talented brigade, develop menus that celebrate the spice trail, and ensure the highest standards of quality, safety, and organisation.

What You’ll Be Doing as a Head Chef

• Leads and inspires the Gilpin Spice kitchen team.
• Designs innovative, flavour‑driven menus rooted in Asian cuisines.
• Manages kitchen operations, stock, GP, and compliance.
• Trains, develops, and mentors chefs and kitchen porters at all levels.
• Collaborates with senior leadership on strategy, guest experience, and brand evolution.
• Upholds Gilpin’s values of warmth, excellence, and genuine hospitality.

What We’re Looking For

• A Head Chef or strong Sous Chef ready to take the next step.
• Deep knowledge of Asian flavours and cooking techniques.
• A creative, energetic leader who thrives in a busy open kitchen.
• Someone who values people, culture, and team development.
• Someone who will lead the kitchen with an unwavering commitment to food safety, legislative compliance, and the highest operational standards.
• A passion for delivering exceptional food with consistency and flair, whilst enhancing the guest experience at every opportunity.

What We Offer

• The chance to be part of a driven and collaborative team.
• Ongoing training and development opportunities.
• Meals on shift, uniform, generous gratuities.
• The pride of contributing to a property recognised with 5 AA Red Stars, and two Michelin Keys.
• The prestige of working within two of the world’s most respected hospitality networks: Relais & Châteaux and Pride of Britain Hotels.

If you’re ready to bring your talent, imagination, and leadership to one of the region’s most exciting restaurants, we’d love to hear from you.

Location: Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, Windermere
Position: Full-Time | Competitive Salary | Flexible start for the right candidate

Salary: from £45,000 to £50,000 depending on experience, plus structured gratuities (average of £877 per month)