#1626 - Chef required for shoot weekends Nov 2025 - Jan 2026 - Formal Estate near Tonbridge, Kent

Chef & Team required for very formal, traditional Estate for shoots near Tonbridge, Kent (TN11). Fully staffed, very formal household with Butlers etc, this job requires someone experienced, able to run a team and cook for large numbers to a high standard. The chef will need to come with their own team of 2 x sous chefs + KP, Sugarella can provide if you do not have, but best to have your own team that can commit to all of the dates. Food will be fairly traditional but formally presented, and the chef MUST be happy to be flexible with changing numbers. Varied diet requirements as well. Menus are decided well in advance. The chef must be confident in their abilities to produce food to the expected standard under pressure. You will also be required to cook staff food (fish pies etc) and this could be up to 12-15 people. Some weekends you will be cooking for up to 40 people for lunches and dinners. No canapes required at dinner, but 3 courses for dinners and 2 courses (main and pudding) for lunches. Previous menus can be provided to give you an idea of the food required. All formally plated, with vegetables served by the butlers.

We are looking for someone really professional, 100% reliable, very experienced, who feels they can deliver absolutely outstanding food to the highest level, gracefully. This job will not suit someone who is easily annoyed, and they really must be able to work well in a team and get on nicely with everyone. The hours and days will be long.

The clients are totally prepared to pay a prep day/two for the days leading up to the dates. The chef MUST be available for all of the dates below, please factor in a prep day the day before. Accommodation can be provided at the Estate for the dates required. Own car/transport essential. Realistic good budget for a good chef and team.

Dates required:-

Thursday 6th November – Prep Day Friday 7th November – SHOOT DAY – bfast, 11s, afternoon tea, dinner Saturday 8th November – SHOOT DAY – bfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner Sunday 9th November – bfast, lunch

Thursday 20th November – Prep Day Friday 21st November – Dinner Saturday 22nd November – SHOOT DAY – bfast, 11s, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner Sunday 23rd November – bfast, lunch

Thursday 4th December – Prep Day Friday 5th December – Dinner Saturday 6th December – SHOOT DAY – bfast, 11s, lunch, afternoon tea

Thursday 8th Jan – Prep Day Friday 9th Jan – SHOOT DAY – bfast, 11s, afternoon tea, dinner Saturday 10th Jan – SHOOT DAY – bfast, 11s, afternoon tea, dinner Sunday 11th Jan – bfast, lunch

Thursday 22nd Jan – Prep Day Friday 23rd Jan – Dinner Saturday 24th Jan – SHOOT DAY - bfast, 11s, afternoon tea, dinner Sunday 25th Jan – bfast, lunch

If you are interested in this role, please provide a quote along with images of your food, your CV and any sample menus. References ESSENTIAL from recent clients that you have cooked for within the last month.

Please e mail ella@sugarellacooks.co.uk with your details and any more information required.