Head Chef Restaurant

About Us

Below, you will find a complete breakdown of everything required of potential candidates, as well as how to apply Good luck.
Darkhorse is an independent, ingredient-led restaurant and cocktail bar in Stratford (E20), known for bold flavours, seasonal cooking, and a modern European menu with creative freedom at its core. We operate with a small, passionate team and a strong reputation in the local dining scene. Our kitchen focuses on quality produce, consistency, and a culture built on respect and collaboration.
Role Overview
Were looking for a Head Chef who wants real ownership someone who can lead the brigade, drive menu development, and shape the next chapter of Darkhorse. This is a hands-on role with full creative input, autonomy over suppliers, and responsibility for maintaining high standards across service, cost control, and team development.
Key Responsibilities
Kitchen Leadership
Manage, mentor, and develop a small, focused team

Build a positive, professional kitchen culture

Oversee rotas, recruitment, and performance

Food & Menu Development
Create seasonal menus and weekly specials

Work with high-quality, local suppliers

Innovate while maintaining consistency and GP targets

Operations & Standards
Maintain excellent food hygiene and safety

Oversee ordering, stock control, and waste management

Manage kitchen budgets and deliver strong margins

What Were Looking For
Proven Head Chef or strong Senior Sous ready to step up

Confident leader with a positive, solutions-focused approach

Strong understanding of GP, cost control, xwzovoh and kitchen systems

Passion for seasonal, ingredient-led cooking

Food Hygiene Level 3

Desirable
Experience in independent restaurants

Knowledge of East London suppliers and trends

Creative, collaborative, and commercially minded

What We Offer
£42,000£50,000 including share of tronc

Full creative control over menus

Supportive, independent ownership

Opportunity to shape and grow the kitchen

A stable, respectful working environment