Head Chef - Boutique Hotel - Taunton
16 days ago
Taunton
Head Chef Historic Boutique Hotel | Somerset JWR is delighted to be working with a long-established, independently owned boutique hotel in Somerset, seeking an experienced and passionate Head Chef to lead the kitchen of this much-loved destination property. This is a rare opportunity to take the reins of a well-regarded hotel kitchen with a strong local reputation, leading a food offering built around warmth, quality and consistency. Combining a relaxed brasserie-style restaurant with elegant event dining, this role offers the chance to shape a food identity that is both commercially strong and true to the character of the property. The Package Salary From £45,000 Tronc / service charge circa £1,500-£2,000 per annum 28 days holiday Free on-site parking Staff meals on duty Discounted accommodation Friends and family discounts on food and drink Career development within a well-established independent hotel The Role As Head Chef, you will take full ownership of the kitchen, leading the delivery of a food offering that balances approachable brasserie dining with refined hospitality for private events and functions. You will: Lead, inspire and develop the kitchen team across all service periods Take full ownership of kitchen operations, standards and team culture Deliver simple, honest and flavour-led dishes rooted in classic brasserie cooking Champion quality ingredients, strong technique and consistency across every plate Create menus that feel warm, familiar and inviting, with timeless appeal Oversee all event and private dining menus, delivering a more elevated and refined style where required Balance commercial performance with creativity, ensuring strong margins and guest satisfaction Manage kitchen GP, labour, stock control and supplier relationships Maintain exceptional food safety, hygiene and compliance standards Work closely with senior management to evolve and strengthen the hotel's overall food proposition Requirements The successful candidate will be a confident and capable Head Chef with a genuine passion for classic hospitality, well-executed food and leading from the front. You will have: Previous experience as a Head Chef or strong Senior Sous within a quality-led hotel or restaurant A passion for classic brasserie-style cooking and ingredient-led menus Strong understanding of flavour, seasonality and timeless, approachable food The ability to deliver both relaxed all-day dining and more refined event catering Excellent kitchen management, organisation and leadership skills Strong commercial awareness with experience managing food margins and labour costs A calm, hands-on leadership style with high standards and strong attention to detail A genuine passion for hospitality and creating memorable guest experiences This is an exceptional opportunity for a talented chef to take ownership of a respected Somerset kitchen with a loyal following and strong reputation. For a Head Chef who values classic cooking, quality ingredients and genuine hospitality, this is a rare chance to shape a food offering with both heritage and heart. For more information, send your CV today TPBN1_UKCT