Japanese Restaurant Chef jobs in London

Pay: £52,000.00 per year

Job Overview

As Senior Sous Chef, you’ll help lead a busy kitchen, delivering well-prepared dishes and a welcoming hospitality experience. You’ll work closely with the Head Chef to coordinate food production, maintain high standards and support the team through service.

Job Description:

We are looking for an exceptional Senior Sous Chef to join the kitchen team at Pizarro Restaurant, one of London's most celebrated Spanish restaurants.

This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate chef who takes pride in producing outstanding food using the highest quality ingredients. Working closely with our Head Chef, you will play an important role in delivering the exceptional dining experience that has made Pizarro a destination for lovers of authentic Spanish cuisine.

Role Overview

As Senior Sous Chef, you will support the Head Chef in leading the kitchen team and overseeing daily operations, ensuring every dish meets the highest standards of quality, presentation, and consistency. You will take charge of the kitchen in the Head Chef’s absence, coordinating service and maintaining an organised and efficient operation.

You will coach and develop the kitchen team, support menu development, and help manage stock, food costs, and waste. You will uphold excellent food safety and hygiene standards while promoting a positive, professional, and collaborative working environment.

What We Can Offer You

• Performance-related bonus opportunities.
• Exclusive annual 3-night stay for two at José's stunning Villa Iris Zahara in beautiful Cádiz, Spain – subject to eligibility and availability.
• Up to 50% staff discount across all José Pizarro Group restaurants.
• Delicious staff meals provided whilst on shift.
• Enhanced holiday scheme with additional days awarded for long service.
• Cycle to Work scheme.
• Supplier visits and industry training opportunities.
• Employee referral bonus scheme.
• Wellness, mental health and financial wellbeing support.
• Wagestream – access up to 50% of earned wages before payday.
• Retail and lifestyle discounts.
• Ongoing training and development.
• Excellent career progression opportunities within a growing hospitality group.

What We're Looking For

• Previous experience as a Senior Sous Chef or an experienced Sous Chef who is ready to take the next step.
• Experience working in a fresh food, high-quality restaurant environment.
• A genuine passion for Spanish cuisine and quality seasonal ingredients.
• Excellent knowledge of food preparation, cooking techniques, and kitchen organisation.
• Strong understanding of food safety, HACCP, and hygiene regulations.
• Ability to work calmly and efficiently in a fast-paced service.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and consistency.
• A positive attitude and willingness to learn and develop.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and bank holidays.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee food preparation and cooking, ensuring dishes meet quality and presentation standards.
• Coordinate kitchen operations and food production during service.
• Guide, supervise and develop kitchen colleagues, supporting effective team management.
• Maintain food safety, cleanliness and orderly working practices.
• Work with front-of-house colleagues to support smooth service and a positive guest experience.

Qualifications

• Kitchen experience, with culinary experience in a restaurant or hospitality setting.
• Supervising experience and demonstrated leadership or team management skills.
• Strong cooking and food preparation abilities, with an understanding of food production.
• Knowledge of food safety practices and the ability to uphold them consistently.
• Restaurant, hospitality or serving experience is useful; a collaborative approach and clear communication are essential.

Kitchen Operations

• Ensure all mise en place is completed before service.
• Monitor stock levels within your section and communicate ordering requirements.
• Minimise food waste through effective stock rotation and portion control.
• Ensure all equipment is used safely and maintained correctly.
• Follow all company food safety, hygiene, and HACCP procedures.

Teamwork & Development

• Support and mentor Commis Chefs and Kitchen Assistants.
• Work collaboratively with the Head Chef, Sous Chefs, and wider kitchen team.
• Contribute to a positive, respectful, and professional kitchen culture.
• Participate in training and continuously develop your culinary skills.

Standards & Compliance

• Maintain the highest standards of cleanliness and personal hygiene.
• Ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations.
• Report any maintenance or food safety concerns promptly.
• Take pride in maintaining the reputation and standards of Pizarro Restaurant.

About Pizarro

Founded by renowned Spanish chef and restaurateur José Pizarro, Pizarro has been at the forefront of London's Spanish dining scene for over 15 years, earning a reputation for exceptional food, outstanding wines, and genuine hospitality.

If you are passionate about great food, thrive in a busy kitchen, and are looking to develop your career within one of London's most respected restaurant groups, we would love to hear from you.

Be Part of Something Special. Apply Now.

Pay: Up to £52,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company events
• Company pension
• Discounted or free food
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Gym membership
• Language training provided
• Store discount

Work Location: In person