Starters Chef

Lina-Stores-1; London Borough of Lambeth; On-site; GBP 22,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

GP and prescription service access

Up to 30% off all Lina Stores venues

Daily coffee allowance and meals on-sh

Cycle to work

Staff parties

Hospitality Rewards App

Wagestream platform

Employee recognition program

Job summary

Lina Stores is seeking an experienced Starters Chef to join our team in London. You will be responsible for preparing and executing Italian appetizers, antipasti, and desserts, while operating the fryer station and contributing to kitchen efficiency.

You will work with a dedicated team to ensure high standards of food quality, hygiene, and presentation, mentoring junior staff and helping with stock management as needed.

Qualifications

• Experience in a fast-paced kitchen handling appetizers, fryers and desserts.
• Passion for Italian cuisine and authentic dishes.
• Attention to timing, consistency and presentation.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and plate Italian starters, antipasti, and desserts with precision and speed.
• Manage the fryer station to cook fried dishes to perfection.
• Maintain high standards of food quality, hygiene and safety.
• Ensure consistency in taste, texture and presentation of dishes.
• Coordinate with Head Chef and kitchen team for smooth service.
• Assist with stock management and ensure fresh ingredients are available.
• Mentor and support junior team members.

Skills

Experience in fast-paced kitchen

Passion for Italian cuisine

Attention to detail

Team player

Organized and efficient

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Starters Chef to join our team at Lina Stores!

ABOUT US

We are an Italian delicatessen and restaurant with locations across London andManchester. First established in 1944, Lina Stores is renowned for its fresh, handmade pasta, artisanal meats, cheeses, antipasti, and many other authentic products — all imported directly from Italy!

Our restaurants offer guests the opportunity to enjoy our freshly made pasta and traditional Italian dishes, crafted with the finest ingredients. We take pride in delivering high-quality, authentic Italian cuisine, with a dedicated kitchen team ensuring consistency and excellence in every dish.

We are proud to be ranked among the Top 100 Best Places to Work in 2025!

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU AS A STARTERS CHEF?

• 24/7/365 access to GP and prescription service

• Up to 30% off all our restaurants, bars, and delicatessens

• Daily coffee allowance and homemade nutritious meals on shift

• Constant training and a clear development path to further your career

• Cycle to work scheme

• Hospitality Rewards App

• Wagestream platform

• Employees and Leader of the Quarter recognition

• Staff parties

ABOUT THE ROLE

As a Starters Chef, you will be responsible for preparing and executing a variety of Italian appetizers, starters, and desserts, ensuring the highest quality and consistency. Your role will also involve operating the fryer station and contributing to the overall efficiency of the kitchen. Your key responsibilities will include:

• Preparing and plating Italian starters, antipasti, and desserts with precision and speed

• Managing the fryer station efficiently to prepare fried dishes to perfection

• Maintaining high standards of food quality, hygiene, and safety

• Ensuring consistency in taste, texture, and presentation of all dishes

• Coordinating with the Head Chef and the kitchen team to ensure smooth service

• Assisting with stock management and ensuring fresh ingredients are available

• Supporting and mentoring junior team members where necessary

YOU ARE:

• Experienced in a similar role – You have worked in a fast-paced kitchen and are confident in handling appetizers, fryers, and desserts.

• Passionate about Italian cuisine – You take pride in creating authentic and delicious dishes.

• Detail-oriented – You understand the importance of timing, consistency, and presentation.

• A team player – You thrive in a fast-paced environment and enjoy working alongside others.

• Organized and efficient – You can handle multiple orders simultaneously while maintaining quality.