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 hands-on Head Chef / Kitchen Lead 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 lead a 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 owner to develop menus, seasonal specials, and the overall guest experience.
Responsibilities
- Leading daily kitchen operations
- Running brunch and evening food service
- Menu development and seasonal specials
- Food prep and service execution
- Managing stock, ordering, and supplier relationships
- Maintaining HACCP and food safety standards
- Managing kitchen cleanliness and organisation
- Supporting cost control and minimising waste
- Training and supporting junior kitchen staff
- Working collaboratively with front of house team
What We’re Looking For
Essential
- Previous experience in a senior chef or kitchen lead role
- Strong brunch and small plates experience
- Calm and organised during service
- Good understanding of food costing and kitchen efficiency
- 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
- Creative but practical menu development
- Passion for seasonal produce and local suppliers
What We Offer
- Competitive salary (€40,000–€45,000 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: €40,000.00-€45,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
