Head Chef

Lina Stores is proud to be ranked among the Top 100 Best Places to Work in the UK in 2025!

We are seeking a passionate and experienced Head Chef to join our team at Lina Stores!

ABOUT US
We are an Italian delicatessen and restaurant with locations across London and an exciting new opening coming soon in Manchester. First established in 1944, Lina Stores is renowned for its fresh, handmade pasta, artisanal meats, cheeses, antipasti, and many other authentic products — all imported directly from Italy.

Our restaurants offer guests the opportunity to enjoy delicious, traditional Italian dishes, made with love and care by our dedicated team. We take pride in our attention to detail, teamwork, and passion for delivering high-quality Italian food — whether dining in, taking away from our deli, or ordering online. All of our recipes are developed at Lina Cucina, our very own prep and development kitchen in Peckham.

ABOUT THE ROLE
As a Head Chef, you will lead and inspire the kitchen team to deliver outstanding Italian cuisine while upholding the values and standards that make Lina Stores so special.

You will be responsible for:

• Kitchen Leadership: Managing the daily operations of the kitchen, including staff supervision, training, rotas, and performance development.

• Quality & Consistency: Ensuring all dishes meet the highest standards of presentation, taste, and authenticity.

• Team Development: Creating a culture of care, support, and continuous learning in the kitchen — sharing knowledge and nurturing talent.

• Cost & Stock Control: Monitoring food margins, reducing waste, and ensuring accurate stock levels.

• Collaboration: Working closely with restaurant management and our Lina Cucina team to ensure alignment on menus, specials, and events.

• Customer Experience: Taking pride in our food and engaging with guests when needed to ensure an unforgettable dining experience.

YOU ARE:

• An experienced and professional chef, confident in managing a busy kitchen and passionate about leading a team.

• Obsessed with quality — from flavour and plating to hygiene and safety standards.

• A true team player with a passion for Italian cuisine, driven to create an inclusive and positive kitchen culture.

• Calm, organised, and able to perform under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

• Experienced with stock and rota management and hold a minimum Level 2 Food Hygiene certification.

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU AS A HEAD CHEF?

• 24/7/365 access to GP and prescription service

• Up to 30% off all our restaurants, bars, and delicatessens

• Up to 30% off at our sister restaurants

• Daily coffee allowance and homemade nutritious meals on shift

• Constant training and a clear development path to further your career

• Cycle to work scheme

• Hospitality Rewards App

• Wagestream platform

• Employees and Leader of the Quarter recognition

• Staff parties and a caring team culture

INTERESTED?
If you're a skilled and passionate Head Chef ready to bring authentic Italian flavours to life while inspiring and leading a high-performing team — we’d love to hear from you.