Chef/Sous Chef

We are opening a neighbourhood café and wine bar in Portmarnock focused on exceptional daytime brunch, thoughtful evening small plates, and a warm, community-driven atmosphere.

By day, we’ll serve a high-quality brunch offering alongside specialty coffee. In the evenings, the space transitions into a relaxed wine bar with seasonal tapas and small plates designed for sharing to compliment our wine offering.

We are looking for a Chef / Sous Chef to help shape and run our kitchen from the ground up.

This is an opportunity to join an independent hospitality project at an early stage and play a key role in building the food identity of the business.

The Role

You will help to run small kitchen operation delivering:

• brunch service during the day,
• seasonal small plates in the evenings,
• high standards of consistency, prep, cleanliness, and organisation.

This role suits someone who enjoys:

• working in a small, collaborative environment,
• cooking thoughtful, quality dishes without unnecessary complexity,
• taking ownership,
• helping build a positive team culture.

You’ll work closely with the Head Chef to develop menus, seasonal specials, and the overall guest experience.

Responsibilities

• Assisting daily kitchen operations
• Running brunch and evening food service
• Menu development and seasonal specials
• Food prep and service execution
• Maintaining HACCP and food safety standards
• Supporting cost control and minimising waste
• Working collaboratively with front of house team

What We’re Looking For

Essential

• Previous experience in a Chef or Sous Chef role
• Brunch and small plates experience preferable
• Calm and organised during service
• Strong prep and organisational skills
• HACCP knowledge
• Positive attitude and team mentality
• Reliability and consistency

Bonus

• Interest in wine and wine pairing
• Experience in independent cafés or wine bars
• Baking or pastry experience
• Passion for seasonal produce and local suppliers

What We Offer

• Competitive salary (€30,000–€35,000 depending on experience)
• Opportunity to help shape a new independent concept
• Creative input into menu development
• Consistent scheduling and better work-life balance than traditional late-night hospitality
• Staff meals, coffee, and wine training opportunities

About Us

We’re building a relaxed neighbourhood venue centred around:

• quality food,
• approachable wine,
• good coffee,
• and genuine hospitality.

We want to create a place people return to regularly — whether for brunch, a glass of wine after work, or evenings with friends.

To Apply

Please send your CV along with a short introduction about yourself, your experience, and what interests you about the role.

Pay: €30,000.00-€35,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• On-site parking

Work Location: In person