Head Chef – Authentic Italian Restaurant

Trades Workforce Solutions; Newbury; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading restaurant group near Newbury is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead its thriving kitchen. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in authentic Italian cuisine and fine dining standards. This role offers a salary of £50,000 to £60,000 plus bonuses, within a supportive team environment. Responsibilities include menu development, kitchen management, and fostering a positive team culture. A valid driver’s license is required due to the restaurant’s location.

Benefits

£6,000 service charge

Paid overtime or time in lieu

Quarterly bonuses

Opportunity to lead a fine dining restaurant

Qualifications

• Experience as a Head Chef in an Italian kitchen.
• Knowledge of fine dining standards.
• Ability to maintain high food quality and safety.

Responsibilities

• Run the kitchen and lead the team effectively.
• Develop seasonal menus highlighting Italian authenticity.
• Ensure consistency and excellence in high-volume services.
• Cultivate a positive kitchen culture focused on growth.

Skills

Leadership skills

Passion for Italian cuisine

Ability to mentor staff

Positive and resilient attitude

Job description

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a talented Head Chef to lead the kitchen at a stylish Italian restaurant near Newbury. This role is perfect for a chef who not only understands authentic Italian cooking but can also bring finesse and creativity to a busy, thriving kitchen.

You’ll be leading a restaurant passionate about exceptional food and hospitality, serving 500 to 600 covers per week. The team values positivity, resilience and gratitude, and is seeking a Head Chef who can inspire, stay motivated under pressure and bring a solution-focused approach to every service.

Due to the restaurant’s location, you must be able to drive.

You’ll be wondering what’s in it for you as the Head Chef…

• £50,000 to £60,000 per annum (DOE) plus circa £6,000 service charge and quarterly bonuses
• 45-hour contract
• Paid overtime or time in lieu
• The chance to lead a restaurant known for authentic Italian cuisine with a fine dining edge

Responsibilities as the Head Chef…

• Taking full responsibility for running the kitchen and leading the team
• Developing seasonal menus that celebrate Italian authenticity with refined presentation
• Delivering consistency and excellence across high-volume services
• Ensuring the highest standards of food quality, safety and organisation
• Building and maintaining a positive, motivated kitchen culture where learning and growth are encouraged

We’re looking for…

• Experience as a Head Chef in an Italian kitchen with fine dining knowledge
• A passion for authentic, high-quality Italian cuisine
• Strong leadership skills and the ability to mentor and develop your brigade
• A positive and resilient outlook, with the ability to see challenges as opportunities

This is a fantastic opportunity for an ambitious Head Chef to take charge of a busy and growing restaurant, where authentic Italian cooking and modern finesse come together in a supportive, forward-thinking environment.

PLEASE NOTE YOU WILL NEED THE RIGHT TO WORK IN THE UK TO BE SUITABLE FOR THIS ROLE.

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