Head Pastry Chef

Sale e Pepe Mare; City of Westminster; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious luxury restaurant in London seeks a Head Pastry Chef to define and lead the pastry identity from opening day. This role offers a creative outlet where you can develop a world-class menu rooted in Italian tradition. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in a premium setting and exceptional leadership skills to inspire and develop a high-performing pastry team. This position comes with competitive salary and benefits in a supportive, people-focused environment.

Benefits

Highly competitive salary

Private health insurance

10 days fully paid sick leave

Bonus scheme

Complimentary meals while on duty

50% staff discount

Career development and progression opportunities

Study support scheme

Internal training and development

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Head Pastry Chef or Senior Pastry Chef in a premium or luxury hospitality environment.
• Strong expertise in Italian and Mediterranean desserts with a creative approach.
• Exceptional attention to detail, presentation, and flavour balance.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a world-class pastry menu rooted in Italian tradition.
• Lead, manage, and inspire the pastry team for high standards.
• Oversee all pastry operations including food safety compliance.

Skills

Leadership

Creativity

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Job description

Head Pastry Chef – Sale e Pepe Mare at The Langham

Set to open within The Langham, London, Sale e Pepe Mare marks an exciting new chapter in the legacy of Sale e Pepe, the iconic Knightsbridge restaurant that has shaped Italian dining in the capital since 1974. This collaboration brings together two renowned London institutions to create a landmark destination for coastal Italian cuisine.

Sale e Pepe Mare will embody the sun-drenched elegance of Italy’s coastline, celebrating exceptional seafood, timeless Italian flavours, and the joyful spirit of la dolce vita. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the restaurant blends tradition with contemporary Mediterranean sophistication.

We are now seeking a talented, creative, and experienced Head Pastry Chef to join our opening team. This is a rare opportunity to define and lead the pastry identity of a luxury restaurant from day one, crafting desserts that leave a lasting impression and elevate the guest experience.

About the Role

As Head Pastry Chef, you will take full ownership of the pastry section, shaping a refined and inspired dessert offering that reflects the coastal elegance and Italian heritage of Sale e Pepe Mare. From reimagined classics to innovative signature creations, your work will play a central role in defining the restaurant’s culinary identity.

You will lead by example, inspire your team, and collaborate closely with the Executive Chef and senior leadership to deliver excellence across every service.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a world‑class pastry menu rooted in Italian tradition and seasonal ingredients
• Lead, manage, and inspire the pastry team, ensuring consistency, creativity, and high standards
• Collaborate closely with the Executive Chef and senior leadership on menu development and concept execution
• Oversee all pastry operations, including preparation, plating, hygiene, and food safety compliance
• Manage inventory, supplier relationships, cost control, and ordering
• Train, mentor, and develop junior pastry chefs, fostering a culture of excellence and growth
• Ensure presentation, flavour, and quality meet the expectations of a luxury dining environment

About Us

At Sale e Pepe Mare, we combine the heritage and elegance of The Langham with the iconic legacy of Sale e Pepe to create a new destination for modern coastal Italian dining. Our culture is people‑focused, inclusive, and driven by passion, craftsmanship, and hospitality excellence.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Head Pastry Chef or Senior Pastry Chef in a premium or luxury hospitality environment
• Strong expertise in Italian and Mediterranean desserts, with a creative and innovative approach
• A hands‑on leader who thrives in fast‑paced, high‑end restaurant settings
• Exceptional attention to detail, presentation, and flavour balance
• Strong leadership, communication, and organisational skills
• Ability to train, motivate, and develop a high‑performing pastry team
• Proof of right to work / settled or pre‑settled status in the UK

Benefits Include

• Highly competitive salary
• Private health insurance
• 10 days fully paid sick leave
• Bonus scheme
• Complimentary meals while on duty
• 50% staff discount when dining with family and friends
• Career development and progression opportunities
• Study support scheme
• A supportive, inclusive, and people‑focused culture
• Internal training, development, and exciting staff events

If you are a passionate pastry professional ready to shape the dessert identity of one of London’s most anticipated restaurant openings, we would love to hear from you.

Thesleff Group is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other legally protected status.