Chef/Cook

Chef / Cook — The Kaffee, Gillingham

About us

The Kaffee is an award-winning independent speciality coffee café in the heart of Gillingham, North Dorset. We're a family-run place serving proper speciality coffee, fresh gelato, cracking warm food and — on Fridays — cocktails. We opened our doors in 2024 and haven't slowed down since. We're a small, tight-knit team who care a lot about doing things properly and having a good time while we do it.

The role

We're after a passionate, energetic chef/cook to join our kitchen. You'll be cooking fresh, high-quality food that keeps our regulars coming back and gives new faces a reason to return. If you take pride in what leaves your pass and enjoy the buzz of a busy service, you'll fit right in.

What you'll be doing

• Preparing and cooking our menu with care, consistency and a bit of flair — every plate to the same standard.
• Following our recipes and presentation guidelines so the food looks as good as it tastes.
• Keeping the kitchen clean, organised and on top of food safety and hygiene at all times.
• Pulling your weight during busy service and backing up the rest of the team when it's flat out.
• Keeping an eye on stock, prepping ahead, and flagging what we're running low on.
• Working closely with front of house so food goes out promptly and everyone leaves happy.
• Sticking to all food handling and health & safety regs, no shortcuts.

What we're looking for

• Previous experience cooking in a café, restaurant or similar setting.
• Solid grasp of kitchen techniques, food safety and hygiene standards.
• Someone who keeps their head (and their standards) when it's busy.
• A team player with a good attitude — we spend a lot of time together, so it matters.
• Flexibility across shifts, including some evenings and weekends.

Why join us

You'll be part of a growing independent that genuinely values its team. There's real scope to learn, put your own stamp on things and grow with us. If you love good food and want to help build something we're all proud of, we'd love to hear from you.

Pay: £12.71-£13.50 per hour

Expected hours: 20.0 – 30.0 per week

Benefits:

• Discounted or free food
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule

Work Location: In person