Melrose Arch: Restaurant Head Chef posted by The Venue Melrose Arch

About the Role We’re looking for a passionate, creative, and highly skilled Head Chef to lead our kitchen at Aduna Bistro, an upscale, contemporary bistro known for refined comfort dining, exceptional presentation, and a modern twist on classic dishes. The ideal candidate is a culinary leader with strong creative flair, technical expertise, and a commitment to excellence in every detail, from menu design to plating precision and team development. Key Responsibilities Culinary Leadership Develop and execute seasonal menus that reflect our brand’s high-end bistro identity. Ensure consistency, quality, and presentation across all dishes. Innovate new dishes and specials that align with food trends and customer expectations. Oversee daily kitchen operations, including prep, service, and stock control. Team Management Recruit, train, and motivate a talented kitchen brigade. Lead by example in maintaining professionalism, discipline, and teamwork. Schedule and manage kitchen staff to ensure efficient workflow. Operational Excellence Maintain food cost targets and manage inventory effectively. Ensure compliance with health, safety, and hygiene standards at all times. Work closely with the front-of-house team to deliver a seamless guest experience. Oversee supplier relationships and ensure the use of high-quality, sustainable ingredients. Creative Direction Stay current with culinary trends, techniques, and plating styles. Uphold the bistro’s visual and taste standards in every dish served. Contribute ideas for food pairing, wine matching, and menu events. Skills & Experience Minimum 5 years’ experience as Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a premium casual environment. Proven experience managing kitchen teams and developing staff. Strong understanding of cost control, ordering systems, and menu engineering. Excellent knowledge of modern European and contemporary global cuisines. Creativity, precision, and a passion for food presentation and flavour balance. Excellent communication and leadership skills. Personal Attributes Inspiring and hands-on leader. Calm under pressure with impeccable attention to detail. Strong work ethic and dedication to excellence. Passionate about delivering exceptional guest experiences. Benefits Competitive salary Opportunities for creative input and menu ownership. Supportive management team and premium working environment. Exposure to high-end clientele and brand collaborations.