Head Chef – Authentic Italian Cuisine
Location: Leicester
Salary: £38,000–£45,000 per annum (DOE) + Performance Bonus
Contract: Permanent, Full-Time
Hours: 40–45 hours per week over 5 days
The Opportunity
We are recruiting for an exciting Head Chef opportunity with an independent Italian restaurant in Leicester, where quality, craftsmanship and authentic cuisine are at the heart of everything they do.
This growing restaurant has quickly built an excellent reputation for delivering beautifully prepared Italian dishes in a relaxed dining environment within a unique Grade II listed setting.
The business is looking for an experienced Head Chef to lead the kitchen team and help drive standards, creativity and consistency. They will also consider an ambitious Sous Chef ready to step up into their first Head Chef role.
Working alongside an experienced Head Chef with a premium Italian restaurant background, this is a fantastic opportunity to join a passionate team and play an important role in the continued growth of the business.
Key Responsibilities
- Take responsibility for the day-to-day running of the kitchen and maintain exceptional standards.
- Deliver authentic Italian cuisine with a focus on quality ingredients and traditional techniques.
- Lead, support and develop the kitchen team.
- Maintain consistency across food quality, presentation and service.
- Contribute to seasonal menu development and new dish ideas.
- Ensure all food safety, hygiene and kitchen standards are maintained.
- Create a positive, professional and collaborative kitchen environment.
- Manage kitchen operations effectively during busy service periods.
About You
The ideal candidate will have:
- Previous experience as a Head Chef, or a strong Sous Chef ready to take the next step.
- A proven background in authentic Italian cuisine.
- 5–10 years' professional chef experience.
- A passion for quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
- Strong leadership and communication skills.
- The ability to remain calm and organised under pressure.
- A positive, team-focused approach with a desire to grow with the business.
- Experience working in a high-quality restaurant environment.
- Comfort working in an all-electric kitchen.
What's On Offer
- Salary of £38,000–£45,000 per annum depending on experience.
- Performance-related bonus scheme.
- Permanent full-time position.
- 40–45 hours per week over 5 days.
- Opportunity to lead and develop within an ambitious independent restaurant.
- Support from an experienced Italian Head Chef.
- Clear career progression and long-term development opportunities.
- A supportive environment where quality and craftsmanship are genuinely valued.
If you are an experienced Head Chef looking for your next challenge, or a talented Sous Chef ready to step up, we would love to hear from you.
Apply today to find out more about this exciting opportunity.
We welcome applications from all backgrounds, including members of the Armed Forces community.