Creative Head Chef

York – Award-Winning Independent Restaurant
💷 £34,000 – £38,000 + £6,000 tronc (minimum)
🕒 Ideally no more than 45 hours per week

Join one of York’s most celebrated independent restaurants, located in a beautiful Grade II listed building in the heart of the city. Known for its exceptional food, drink, and warm, characterful atmosphere, the venue offers a unique dining experience that blends modern creativity with historic charm.

For over a decade, this restaurant has earned a stellar reputation for its outstanding beef dishes, complemented by an exciting range of seafood and seasonal creations. Now, as it evolves into a more innovative, contemporary gastro destination, we’re seeking an exceptional Head Chef to lead this next chapter.

The Vision

We’re looking for a visionary and creative chef to elevate the restaurant’s offering—focusing on fresh, local, and seasonal produce while keeping its signature beef at the heart of the menu. You’ll have the creative freedom to design dynamic, seasonal menus that define a new culinary identity for one of York’s most beloved venues.

The Role

As the Creative Head Chef, you’ll lead all kitchen operations, blending hands-on culinary skill with strong leadership and management. You’ll shape the menu, set and uphold quality standards, and inspire your team to deliver exceptional dishes every day.

Key Responsibilities

• Menu Development & Design: Lead the creation, costing, and delivery of innovative, seasonal menus that reflect the restaurant’s evolving concept.
• Kitchen Management: Oversee back-of-house operations, maintaining efficiency, organisation, and cleanliness at all times.
• Quality & Consistency: Ensure every dish meets rigorous standards for taste, presentation, and consistency.
• Team Leadership: Mentor and motivate your team, nurturing talent and maintaining a professional, positive working culture.
• Health & Safety: Maintain compliance with all food safety, hygiene, and HACCP regulations.

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or ambitious Sous Chef within a quality-driven kitchen.
• A passion for creativity, presentation, and using the best local and seasonal ingredients.
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and manage a team under pressure.
• Solid business understanding, including cost control, stock management, and budgeting.

The Perks

• Generous tronc
• Work/life balance (around 45 hours per week)
• Family & friends discounts
• Employee discount & referral programme
• Supportive, forward-thinking ownership team