Head Chef – New Opening – Covent Garden – Modern European with Japanese Twist - Up to 60K.

We are recruiting a Head Chef for an exciting new restaurant opening in Covent Garden on Maiden Lane. This is a fantastic opportunity to lead the kitchen of a modern, all-day dining concept focusing on modern European cuisine with a Japanese influence. The business is people-focused, values creativity, and is committed to maintaining a healthy work–life balance. The restaurant will operate breakfast, lunch, and dinner service, trading from 8am to 10pm, with approximately 70 covers and a compact, well-organised kitchen.

What We Offer:

·      Salary up to £60,000 per year, plus bonus

·      KPI-based bonus structure (linked to GP, customer satisfaction, and performance)

·      45-hour contract per week

·      Strong focus on work–life balance – no expectation of excessive hours

·      Opportunity to take ownership of a brand-new kitchen and opening

·      Supportive ownership and a sustainable working culture

·      Central London location in Covent Garden

The Role:

·      Take full responsibility for running the kitchen as your own

·      Lead, manage, and develop a small brigade of 6–8 kitchen staff, including KPs

·      Always ensure a minimum of three chefs on duty for all-day trading

·      Deliver consistently high-quality, fresh food across breakfast, lunch, and dinner

·      Work with an opening menu initially designed by a consultancy, with the opportunity to influence and develop menus over time

·      Maintain strong GP control, food costs, and stock management

·      Uphold excellent standards of food quality, presentation, and kitchen hygiene

·      Recruit, train, and inspire your team

·      Work closely with senior management to meet operational and commercial KPIs

Who We’re Looking For:

·      An experienced Head Chef or strong Senior Sous Chef ready to step up

·      Proven background working with fresh, high-quality ingredients

·      Strong leadership and people-management skills

·      Highly organised, structured, and calm under pressure

·      Enthusiastic, positive, and motivated by new openings

·      Comfortable working in a small kitchen environment

·      Passionate about modern food and all-day dining concepts

If this sounds like the right next step for you, we would love to hear from you.