Location: United Kingdom
Job Type: Full-time
Salary: £49,000 per year
Visa Sponsorship: Available
Accommodation: Subsidised shared accommodation available
Company Overview
Lucky Lychee is an award-winning pub & restaurant based in the historic Green Man in Winchester. We specialize in authentic Malaysian cuisine, offering a unique dining experience with a premium drinks selection in a relaxed and vibrant setting. As we continue to expand, we are seeking a passionate and talented Head Chef to lead our dynamic kitchen team and uphold our reputation for delivering consistently high-quality food.
Our restaurant is known for its commitment to excellence, fresh ingredients, and innovative culinary techniques that bring the true flavors of Malaysia to the UK. We believe in creating a collaborative and inspiring work environment where chefs can thrive, innovate, and grow their careers.
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced chef to showcase their expertise in Malaysian cuisine, manage a fast-paced kitchen, and play a key role in driving the success of our growing business. We are looking for someone with an eye for detail, a passion for authentic flavors, and the ability to lead a team in a high-energy, customer-focused environment.
Role Overview
As the Head Chef, you will be responsible for overseeing all kitchen operations, ensuring that dishes meet our high standards, and leading a team of skilled chefs. You will develop new menu items, maintain stock levels, enforce food safety protocols, and collaborate with the owners to align with the restaurant’s strategic goals.
This position requires a hands-on approach, with the Head Chef actively involved in cooking, plating, and supervising service. You will be responsible for maintaining kitchen efficiency, reducing waste, and ensuring that all dishes are prepared to perfection and on time.
We are looking for someone with exceptional leadership, creativity, and organizational skills, capable of serving up to 150 covers per night while maintaining efficiency and quality. Your role will be pivotal in upholding high food standards, implementing effective kitchen processes, and fostering a positive team culture.
Key Responsibilities
Kitchen Operations & Leadership
- Manage and oversee the back-of-house (BOH) team, delegating tasks and supervising performance.
- Train, mentor, and develop kitchen staff to maintain high standards of culinary excellence and efficiency.
- Implement and uphold all food safety and health & safety regulations.
- Plan and coordinate daily mise en place, ensuring seamless and efficient service.
- Maintain strict cleanliness and hygiene standards in all food preparation and storage areas.
- Monitor kitchen workflow, ensuring smooth and effective service during busy hours.
- Lead by example, demonstrating a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and dedication to excellence.
Menu Development & Quality Control
- Design, test, and refine new Malaysian-inspired dishes that align with customer preferences and business goals.
- Maintain recipe consistency, ensuring food presentation and taste remain exceptional.
- Conduct regular quality checks on ingredients and prepared dishes.
- Adjust menu offerings based on seasonality, availability, and profitability.
- Collaborate with the FOH team to understand customer feedback and continuously improve the menu.
- Innovate and experiment with new cooking techniques to enhance flavor and presentation.
Stock & Cost Management
- Conduct regular stock takes, ensuring optimal inventory levels and minimizing waste.
- Manage kitchen costs, including food procurement, portion control, and cost efficiency.
- Work closely with suppliers to source high-quality ingredients at competitive prices.
- Accurately forecast demand to avoid food shortages or overstocking.
- Implement a waste reduction strategy, ensuring all ingredients are used efficiently.
- Monitor and control kitchen expenditures, keeping food costs within budget.
Team Collaboration & Customer Experience
- Foster a positive and collaborative kitchen environment, working seamlessly with FOH staff.
- Communicate effectively with management and owners regarding operational updates.
- Ensure every dish meets customer expectations, delivering exceptional dining experiences.
- Support the team during busy shifts, stepping in as needed to maintain service flow.
- Train staff on customer engagement, ensuring they understand the menu and can answer customer questions.
Essential Skills & Requirements
Required Qualifications & Experience:
- Minimum 3 years of experience specializing in Malaysian cuisine at high-quality establishments.
- Comprehensive knowledge of Malaysian ingredients, cooking techniques, and traditional dishes.
- Strong leadership and team management skills, with experience in training and supervising kitchen staff.
- Ability to work efficiently under pressure, especially in high-volume service environments.
- Commitment to food safety regulations and experience implementing HACCP protocols.
- Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail.
- Passion for delivering top-quality cuisine and maintaining exceptional presentation standards.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience working in award-winning restaurants or high-end kitchens.
- Familiarity with modern kitchen equipment and advanced cooking techniques.
- A creative approach to menu planning and development.
- Strong understanding of profit margins, cost control, and waste reduction strategies.
- Previous experience working in fast-paced, high-volume dining establishments.
Employee Benefits & Perks
- Competitive salary (£39,000 base + £10,000 expected tronc)
- Performance-based bonuses, including a yearly bonus scheme
- Company pension plan
- Discounted or free meals during shifts
- Employee discount on food and beverages
- Relocation assistance available
- UK Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship for eligible international applicants
- Subsidised shared accommodation for those relocating
- Opportunities for professional growth and career advancement
- A dynamic and supportive work environment
Work Environment & Expectations
- Location: Winchester, SO23 9EH (must be able to commute or relocate before starting)
- Work Schedule: Full-time, with flexibility for evenings, weekends, and busy service periods.
- Expected Start Date: 07/07/2025
- High-energy, customer-focused environment where attention to detail and teamwork are key.
- Opportunities to develop new recipes and influence menu direction.
How to Apply
Interested in joining our passionate team? Click “Apply Here” to submit your application.
Ensure that your CV highlights your relevant experience, culinary skills, and leadership capabilities.
Join Lucky Lychee and take your culinary career to the next level in an award-winning, fast-growing restaurant! Apply today!