Head Chef

Head Chef – Boutique Family-Run Hotel, Kilkenny City Centre
Salary: €55,000+ DOE + Bonus

We are looking for an experienced and passionate Head Chef to take charge of the kitchen at a well-established, family-owned boutique hotel in the heart of Kilkenny. Housed in a historic Georgian building over 200 years old, this property combines classic Irish hospitality with a modern culinary approach.

Role Overview:
As Head Chef, you will lead a small, dedicated team, delivering high-quality dishes across a busy restaurant and bar operation. The menu focuses on contemporary takes on traditional Irish cuisine, highlighting fresh, local ingredients such as seasonal produce, seafood, and quality steaks. This is a hands-on role for a chef who enjoys autonomy, mentoring their team, and maintaining excellent standards in a close-knit environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead, manage, and develop a small kitchen brigade
• Oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring consistency and quality across lunch, dinner, and event service
• Design and update menus that blend traditional Irish cuisine with modern touches
• Monitor food costs, GP, and manage supplier relationships
• Ensure full compliance with HACCP and food safety regulations
• Maintain high standards of organisation, hygiene, and kitchen efficiency

The Ideal Candidate:

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or an experienced Sous Chef ready to step into a leadership role
• Background in hotel kitchens or high-volume casual dining
• Passion for modern Irish cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients
• Strong leadership skills, with the ability to motivate and mentor a small team
• Hands-on, proactive approach, able to thrive in a busy, fast-paced environment

What’s on Offer:

• Competitive salary of €55,000+ DOE, plus performance-related bonus
• Opportunity to shape the kitchen and put your stamp on a well-known local venue
• Work in a family-run hotel with a strong team culture
• Central Kilkenny location, serving a mix of locals, tourists, and event guests

This is a rare chance to lead the kitchen of a character-filled, historic hotel with a loyal customer base and a reputation for warm hospitality and outstanding food.

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