Junior Sous Chef

Ottolenghi Islington; City Of London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A popular restaurant group in London seeks a passionate Junior Sous Chef to join their team. In this role, you will support the Head Chef and lead the kitchen team, ensuring high-quality standards and contributing to menu development. Ideal candidates will have previous experience in high-paced kitchens and be ready to take their career to the next level. This position offers daytime shifts only and excellent benefits, including training and career development.

Benefits

28 days holiday

Health benefits package

Refer a Friend scheme (£500)

Monthly culinary workshops

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Chef de Partie or Junior Sous in a high-quality kitchen.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, hygiene, and kitchen management.
• Ability to motivate and lead a kitchen team.

Responsibilities

• Support the Head Chef in managing daily kitchen operations.
• Oversee service and maintain high standards of food quality.
• Contribute ideas for menu development.

Skills

Team leadership

Food safety knowledge

Communication skills

Job description

Ottolenghi is a renowned group of restaurants and delis celebrated for vibrant, creative dishes and exceptional hospitality. We’re now looking for a talented and passionate Junior Sous Chef to join our team at Ottolenghi Islington This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Chef de Partie or Junior Sous ready to take on more responsibility and grow within one of our much-loved neighbourhood restaurants.

As a Junior Sous Chef at Ottolenghi Islington, you will play a key role in leading the kitchen team alongside the Head Chef and Sous Chef. You’ll oversee service, ensure every dish meets our high standards, and help bring new ideas to our seasonal menus. This role suits a confident and organised chef who leads by example and thrives in a collaborative, creative environment.

The ideal Junior Sous Chef will:

• Support the Head Chef and Sous Chef in managing the daily operation of the kitchen.
• Lead and motivate the team, maintaining high standards of food quality and consistency.
• Take ownership of sections and ensure smooth, efficient service.
• Contribute ideas for menu development and seasonal dishes.
• Have strong knowledge of food safety, hygiene, and kitchen management.
• Be an inspiring team player with great communication skills and a calm, positive attitude.
• Have proven experience as a Chef de Partie or Junior Sous in a high-quality, fast-paced kitchen.

What’s in it for you:

• Daytime shifts only.
• Chef’s uniform provided.
• Enhanced Maternity, Adoption, Surrogacy, or Primary Care Giver Parent Pay and Paternity Pay after 2 years of service.
• Health benefits package.
• 28 days’ holiday and pension scheme.
• Excellent training plan and career development opportunities.
• “Refer a Friend” scheme (£500 each).
• Monthly cooking demos and food, wine, and cocktail workshops in the Ottolenghi Test Kitchen.
• A positive, inclusive workplace with real opportunities for progression and growth.

We’d love to hear from you if you’re a passionate and driven Junior Sous Chef ready to take the next step in your career and join our team in Hampstead!