JOB OVERVIEW

We are a family based in the beautiful New Forest seeking an experienced and passionate private chef or cook to prepare delicious, high-quality meals in our home. This is a part-time role focused on creating bespoke menus using the finest seasonal ingredients, with a strong emphasis on dairy-free (though we do use butter) and gluten-free options. Our large kitchen is well-equipped with ample fridge and freezer space, a large Aga, multiple ovens, and dishwashers, providing an ideal setup for efficient meal preparation and storage. You’ll have the freedom to be creative while aligning with our preferences for fresh, healthy, and gourmet cuisine. We often entertain guests, so versatility in preparing everything from casual BBQs to elegant Sunday roasts at the dining table is essential. Additionally, we appreciate preparing extra portions that can be frozen and easily reheated for convenience. You’ll also collaborate with our gardener to plan and incorporate home-grown vegetables and fruits from our garden into meals. We value a professional who can handle everything from menu planning to sourcing and cleanup, ensuring a seamless dining experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and prepare 2 meals per day (lunch & dinner) for the family, 3-5 days a week, with flexibility for special occasions, events, or entertaining guests.
• Create customized menus incorporating our dairy-free (except for butter) and gluten-free dietary requirements, using seasonal and occasional international influences.
• Prepare extra portions of meals suitable for freezing and reheating, to support busy schedules.
• Source premium ingredients from trusted suppliers, including fresh fish, meats, fruits, vegetables, and specialty items—leveraging your knowledge of high-quality local and UK-wide providers, with attention to gluten-free and dairy alternatives.
• Collaborate with our gardener to plan the growing of vegetables and fruits in the garden, and integrate these home-grown items into menus for maximum freshness and sustainability.
• Maintain a spotless kitchen environment, including cleanup and organization after each session.
• Adapt to our schedule and provide input on innovative recipes or ingredient ideas, including versatile options for entertaining (e.g., BBQs, formal roasts).

Requirements

• Extensive experience (10+ years preferred) in high-end restaurants, ideally Michelin-starred or equivalent establishments.
• Proven expertise in sourcing top-tier ingredients, with strong connections to suppliers for seafood, produce, and artisanal products.
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and creative, with a flair for elevating everyday meals.
• Trustworthy and reliable, with impeccable references from previous employers or clients.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to work independently in a private home setting.
• Valid UK driving license and own transportation (due to rural location).
• Food hygiene certification (Level 2 or higher) and DBS check required (or willingness to obtain).
• Passion for sustainability and using local, seasonal produce where possible.

What We Offer

• A supportive and respectful working environment in a stunning rural setting.
• Flexible scheduling to fit around your commitments.
• Opportunity for creative freedom and long-term collaboration.
• Reimbursement for ingredient costs and potential travel expenses.

If you’re a dedicated culinary professional excited about bringing restaurant-quality dining to a private family home, we’d love to hear from you! Please send your CV, a cover letter outlining your relevant experience, sample menus (including dairy-free and gluten-free examples), and references. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview and trial cook.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: £20.00-£35.00 per hour
Expected hours: 10 – 20 per week

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Free parking

Experience:

• Chef: 10 years (required)

Language:

• English (required)

Work Location: In perso

• Plan and prepare 2 meals per day (lunch & dinner) for the family, 3-5 days a week, with flexibility for special occasions, events, or entertaining guests.
• Create customized menus incorporating our dairy-free (except for butter) and gluten-free dietary requirements, using seasonal and occasional international influences.
• Prepare extra portions of meals suitable for freezing and reheating, to support busy schedules.
• Source premium ingredients from trusted suppliers, including fresh fish, meats, fruits, vegetables, and specialty items—leveraging your knowledge of high-quality local and UK-wide providers, with attention to gluten-free and dairy alternatives.
• Collaborate with our gardener to plan the growing of vegetables and fruits in the garden, and integrate these home-grown items into menus for maximum freshness and sustainability.
• Maintain a spotless kitchen environment, including cleanup and organization after each session.
• Adapt to our schedule and provide input on innovative recipes or ingredient ideas, including versatile options for entertaining (e.g., BBQs, formal roasts)