168 Best Chef & Cook Jobs in Watford (October 2025)

Here’s a clear and detailed list of chef responsibilities, suitable for job descriptions, performance evaluations, or resumes. Chef Responsibilities 1. Menu Planning & Development • Design and plan menus that align with restaurant concepts, customer preferences, and seasonal ingredients., • Create new dishes and improve existing recipes to maintain quality and customer satisfaction., • Ensure menus meet nutritional standards and cost targets. 2. Food Preparation & Cooking • Supervise and participate in the preparation, seasoning, and cooking of food., • Maintain consistency in presentation, portion sizes, and taste., • Ensure all food is prepared and served according to recipes, standards, and hygiene regulations. 3. Kitchen Management • Oversee daily kitchen operations, including scheduling, staff management, and workflow organization., • Train, mentor, and motivate kitchen staff to ensure high performance and teamwork., • Monitor kitchen equipment and arrange maintenance or repairs when necessary. 4. Quality & Safety Control • Maintain high standards of food hygiene, safety, and cleanliness in all kitchen areas., • Conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance with local health and safety regulations., • Manage inventory, rotate stock, and minimize food waste. 5. Budgeting & Cost Control • Manage food costs through effective purchasing, portion control, and waste reduction., • Work with management to plan budgets and forecast food and labor costs., • Source quality ingredients from reliable suppliers at optimal prices. 6. Customer Service & Communication • Collaborate with front-of-house staff to ensure customer satisfaction., • Handle special requests, dietary restrictions, and complaints professionally., • Represent the kitchen during staff meetings and events. 7. Innovation & Continuous Improvement • Stay updated on culinary trends, new techniques, and presentation styles., • Experiment with recipes and introduce seasonal or promotional menu items., • Implement feedback to enhance food quality and service efficiency. Would you like me to tailor this list for a specific chef position (e.g., Executive Chef, Sous Chef, Pastry Chef, Line Chef)? Each role has slightly different responsibilities.

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An exciting role for an ambitious, talented and experienced Head Chef. The candidate will have vast experience of running a busy kitchen and managing a team of chefs and kitchen porters. The Boot has an excellent reputation that we have built up over the last 15 years, so there is a requirement to learn the business and work alongside the owner/operators and long standing front of house team.

Due to our continuing success we are looking for a chef de partie at our neighbourhood's favourite Italian Restaurant based in Bushey. Previous experience in Italian kitchen is an advantage. For this position we are offering a competitive hourly rate, 28 days paid holidays, a share of service charge, free meals whilst on duty and discounts to dine at our venues with your family and friends. If you think you have what it takes to be part of a vibrant and fun team then please get in touch.

An exciting, role for an ambitious, talented.. experienced head chef , you will have experience of running a busy / established well known gastro pub restaurant in a beautiful village. Working with experienced owners, who support and drive the business

Due to our continuing success we are looking for a pizza chef with experience at our neighbourhood's favourite Italian Restaurant based in Ruislip. Previous experience in Italian kitchen is an advantage. For this position we are offering a competitive hourly rate, 28 days paid holidays and a share of service charge, free meals whilst on duty and discounts to dine at our venues with your family and friends. If you think you have what it takes to be part of a vibrant and fun team then please get in touch.

Sous Chef – Lead with Skill, Serve with Heart! Location: Stanmore Coco's Cafe Hours: Full-Time 45hr Salary: 40-45k negotiable, experience depending. Are you a talented chef ready to take your leadership to the next level? We’re seeking a dedicated Sous Chef to support our Head Chef and guide our kitchen team in delivering high-quality, nutritious, and comforting meals—especially for those who need it most. Key Responsibilities: Oversee day-to-day kitchen operations and ensure consistent food quality and presentation Supervise and motivate junior chefs and kitchen staff Help develop menus that are nutritious, seasonal, and tailored to specific dietary requirements Ensure food safety, hygiene, and allergen procedures are strictly followed Assist with inventory management, supplier coordination, and cost control Step up as acting Head Chef when needed, maintaining leadership and calm under pressure Ideal Candidate: Strong culinary background with experience in high-volume or healthcare kitchens Proven leadership and team management skills Passion for food that supports health, recovery, and emotional wellbeing Excellent organizational skills and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment 5 years as Sous Chef experience required What We Offer: A supportive and collaborative kitchen culture Opportunities for career development and training Make a real impact through food, especially if you're cooking in settings where your meals support healing, comfort, and community

We’re recruiting for a chef familiar with pizza teglia (Roman style pizza by the slice), pasta, pastries and desserts.

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Tongue and Brisket

Chef in deli/restaurant

Part time and full time position available for a cheg in a family business. Job will include cooking, cleaning, food preparation and some heavy lifting

No experience

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Canvas Bar & Nightclub

We are seeking a talented and passionate Chef / Kitchen Manager to join our dynamic team with experience in Lebanese / Turkish. The ideal candidate will play a crucial role in the daily operations of the kitchen, ensuring that high standards of food preparation and presentation are maintained. This position requires strong leadership skills, a commitment to food safety, and a passion for culinary excellence within a fast-paced restaurant environment. Responsibilities Managing kitchen operations, including supervising kitchen staff and ensuring efficient workflow. Oversee food preparation processes to ensure quality and consistency in all dishes served. Maintain high standards of food safety and hygiene in accordance with health regulations. Train and mentor junior kitchen staff, fostering a positive team environment. Monitor inventory levels and assist with ordering supplies as needed to maintain stock levels. Ensure that all kitchen equipment is properly maintained and cleaned regularly. Handle any customer complaints or feedback regarding food quality or service promptly and professionally. Qualifications Proven experience as a Chef or in a similar role within a restaurant setting. Strong knowledge of food preparation techniques and culinary practices. Familiarity with food safety regulations and best practices. Excellent leadership skills with the ability to motivate and manage a team effectively. Strong organisational skills with attention to detail in both food presentation and kitchen operations. Ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced environment while maintaining high standards of quality. A passion for hospitality and delivering exceptional dining experiences to guests.

Busy Hertfordshire gastro pub in the outskirts of Watford. Great fresh menu looking for a good all round Chef de Partie . 8 shifts 50 hours per week 34- 38k per year . Must live locally however Subsidised Accommodation available if necessary . Must have 2-3 years experience in similar environment. Family run business great atmosphere, excellent menu Please contact James

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NOURISH PREP ( MealprepFitness )

Sous Chef – Meal Prep Business (Northwood) We are a small but growing meal prep business looking for a dedicated Sous Chef to join our team. The ideal candidate should be able to work well within a team, have good knowledge of general cuisines (Italian, Indian, Caribbean), or be a fast learner with a passion for food. Responsibilities: Assist the Head Chef with day-to-day kitchen operations Prepare and cook meals according to set menus and portion sizes Maintain high standards of food hygiene and kitchen cleanliness Support with stock management and organisation Work efficiently in a fast-paced environment Requirements: Previous kitchen experience preferred, but strong cooking skills and quick learning ability considered Familiarity with Italian, Indian, and Caribbean cuisines (or willingness to learn quickly) Excellent teamwork and communication skills Strong attention to hygiene and food safety standards Based in or able to commute easily to Northwood

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