Head Chef/Head Pizza Chef

Cinquecento; City Of London; On-site; GBP 43,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

An Italian Pizzeria in London is seeking a skilled Wood Fired Neapolitan Head Pizza Chef. Responsibilities include preparing authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas using traditional methods, operating the wood-fired oven, and mentoring kitchen staff. The ideal candidate has substantial experience in Italian cuisine and a strong grasp of Neapolitan pizza techniques. The role offers a salary ranging from £43,000 to £48,000, along with generous benefits including bonuses and employee discounts.

Benefits

25% family dining discount

Free meals for each full shift worked

Performance related bonuses

Pension scheme

Full uniform provided

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Pizza Chef, preferably specializing in Neapolitan-style pizzas.
• In-depth knowledge of Neapolitan pizza dough preparation and traditional Italian ingredients.
• Strong understanding of flavour profiles and the ability to create innovative pizza combinations.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and stretch Neapolitan pizza dough using traditional techniques.
• Operate and maintain the wood-fired oven.
• Select and source high-quality ingredients for pizza toppings.
• Train and mentor kitchen staff on Neapolitan pizza techniques.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.

Skills

Wood-fired oven cooking

Neapolitan pizza techniques

Dough preparation

Flavour combinations

Time management

Team collaboration

Food safety regulations

Job description

Overview

We are seeking a skilled and passionate Wood Fired Neapolitan Head Pizza Chef/Head Chef to join our team. As a Wood Fired Neapolitan Head Pizza Chef, you will be responsible for creating authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas using traditional methods and high-quality ingredients. Your expertise in wood-fired oven cooking, dough preparation, and pizza assembly will contribute to delivering an exceptional dining experience for our customers. The ideal candidate should have a strong background in Italian cuisine, a deep understanding of Neapolitan pizza techniques, and a creative approach to flavour combinations.

Pizzeria Duties

• Prepare and stretch Neapolitan pizza dough using traditional techniques to achieve the characteristic thin and soft crust (dough preparation, control fermentation of dough/gluten).
• Operate and maintain the wood-fired oven, ensuring optimal temperature and consistent cooking results.
• Select and source high-quality ingredients, including fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and premium meats, to create flavourful toppings.
• Master the art of hand-tossing and shaping pizza dough to achieve the desired thickness and shape.
• Execute proper pizza assembly and topping distribution, ensuring an even and balanced flavour profile.
• Monitor cooking times to ensure pizzas are baked to perfection, with the ideal balance of crispy crust and melty toppings.
• Collaborate with the kitchen team to develop new and innovative pizza flavours, exploring seasonal ingredients and customer preferences.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, following food safety and sanitation guidelines.
• Train and mentor kitchen staff on Neapolitan pizza techniques, encouraging consistency and quality throughout the team.
• Continuously strive to improve and refine pizza recipes and cooking methods, keeping up with industry trends and customer feedback.
• Uphold a high level of professionalism and teamwork, fostering positive relationships with colleagues and providing excellent customer service.

Kitchen Duties

• Food Preparation: Support with food preparation and cooking processes, ensuring consistency and quality.
• Inventory Control: Monitor stock levels, place orders, and manage inventory efficiently.
• Quality Assurance: Ensure that all dishes meet quality standards and are presented correctly.
• Sanitation: Enforce health and safety regulations, ensuring a clean and safe kitchen environment.
• Collaboration with FOH: Work closely with the FOH team to address any special requests or issues, ensuring a cohesive and high-quality dining experience.
• Make kitchen/pizzeria rota and keep the cost in the budget.

About You

• Friendly and approachable. Positive mindset. Eagerness to learn. Ability to thrive under pressure and collaborate with a team. Genuine passion for enhancing guest experiences. Experience working in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
• Leading a section or shifts in the kitchen. Proven experience as a Pizza Chef, preferably specializing in Neapolitan-style pizzas.
• In-depth knowledge of Neapolitan pizza dough preparation, wood-fired oven cooking, and traditional Italian ingredients.
• Ability to hand-toss and shape pizza dough with precision and consistency.
• Strong understanding of flavour profiles and the ability to create innovative pizza combinations.
• Excellent time management and multitasking skills in a fast-paced kitchen environment. Attention to detail and a commitment to delivering consistently high-quality pizzas.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work well as part of a team and provide guidance to kitchen staff.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.

CinqueCentO Employee Benefits

• CinqueCentO 25% family dining discount
• Free meals for each full shift worked
• Performance related bonuses (non-contractual)
• Tronc/Gratuities
• Pension scheme (subject to eligibility)
• Full training and certification on health and safety, food courses and wines
• Opportunity to learn about traditional Italian cuisine
• Career Development
• Full uniform provided

About Us

Our restaurant is committed to being an equal opportunity employer, welcoming everyone in the community. We celebrate diversity, take pride in our offerings, our work, and being ourselves. If you're excited to join our amazing team, we want to hear from you!

Experience: Required
Languages: English – Advanced
Employment: Full-time
Salary: £43,000 – £48,000 yearly
Benefits: Plus bonus
Starting time: Immediate start!

About Cinquecento:
Italian Pizzeria