Sous Chef – Japanese-Inspired Spa Restaurant

Trades Workforce Solutions; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 37,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

A reputed hotel in the North East of the UK is seeking a Sous Chef to join their dynamic kitchen team. This role offers a competitive salary of £37,000 per annum plus a £2,500 service charge, with a four-day working week and a focus on pan-Asian cuisine. The ideal candidate will confidently lead the kitchen, mentor junior staff, and thrive in a no-drama environment. A passion for Japanese cuisine and the ability to maintain high kitchen standards are essential. The role requires the right to work in the UK.

Benefits

Long weekends every couple of months

Work-life balance with planned rota

Close-knit team culture

Qualifications

• Experience as a Sous Chef or similar role.
• Passionate about Japanese and pan-Asian cuisine.
• Must have right to work in the UK.

Responsibilities

• Lead the kitchen during the Head Chef's absence.
• Work on a fresh, flavour-driven menu with high-quality ingredients.
• Train and mentor junior chefs.

Skills

Confidence with pan-Asian flavours

Ability to train and mentor junior chefs

High standards of prep and cleanliness

Job description

We’re delighted to be assisting one of the North East’s finest hotels, a 5 AA Red Star coastal retreat with multiple dining concepts, including a stylish, Asian-inspired spa restaurant. Their Japanese-led menu is light, vibrant, and packed with flavour, serving everything from sushi rolls to robata grilled meats in a serene setting.

They’re now looking for a Sous Chef to join the team. This is a fantastic opportunity for a talented chef who’s confident with pan‑Asian flavours and wants to work in a calm, well‑organised kitchen with a no‑egos culture.

Due to the location of the hotel, you will need your own mode of transport.

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

• £37,000 per annum plus £2,500 service charge
• 4‑day working week with straight shifts: 10am to 10pm with a break
• Rota planned 6–7 weeks in advance for a real work‑life balance
• One long weekend off every couple of months
• Working in a unique kitchen with a Japanese‑inspired menu
• Being part of a genuine, close‑knit team with strong communication and no drama

Responsibilities as the Sous Chef…

• Leading the kitchen when the Head Chef is off and supporting during busy services
• Working across a fresh, flavour‑driven menu using high‑quality ingredients
• Training and mentoring junior chefs in a calm, collaborative environment
• Ensuring high standards of prep, presentation, and cleanliness
• Helping develop new dishes and refining the offering alongside senior chefs

This role would suit a Sous Chef who’s passionate about Japanese and pan‑Asian cuisine, thrives in a relaxed but professional setting, and values a strong, team‑first kitchen culture.

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

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