Seasonal Commis Chef, The Armoury

Who are we?

Estelle Manor is a rural retreat set on an 85 acre estate in Oxfordshire. The manor has four restaurants, an extraordinary 3,000 sq metre Roman inspired spa Eynsham Baths, 108 bedrooms and a gym with class studios and padel courts. Plus, there's a kids' club for the little ones and a workspace.

We are looking for a talented Commis chef to join our culinary team based in The Armoury, our Japanese restaurant. This role will assist during our busy season between March and September 2026.

The on target earning potential for this role is £34,493.47 per annum based on a 45 hour contract - comprising a base salary of £28,643.47, plus a qualified estimate of £5,000 in gratuities and service charge . Please note this role is paid hourly so this is a projected salary and OTE.

Here's a bit more detail on what we see you doing in this role:

We are looking for a driven and passionate Sushi Chef to join our exceptionally curated 'The Armoury' Japanese restaurant. This role works under ex Nobu Chef, Sergej Leonenko, and delivers a sumptuous menu of sashimi, tempura, maki and robata classics alongside Japanese tea, cocktails and sake. The space also includes The Armoury Sushi Bar for a more casual rendezvous setting, with elevated design details drawing inspiration from around the globe, from Morocco to India.

As a sushi chef your primary function is to prepare delicious and attractive sushi and sashimi at Estelle Manor. You will assist and engage with the kitchen's senior leadership in managing all food related standards, health and safety ensuring the guests and members experience is always in line with Estelle Manor standards. You should uphold the highest standards and ensure the guest experience is always in line with Estelle Manor standards.

Who we are looking for:

• Ability to perform under pressure and deliver high quality results to tight deadlines.
• Experience in Sushi and Sashimi preparation within a luxury restaurant environment.
• Takes ownership and initiative toward problem solving, and desire to generate new ideas with creative thinking.
• An enthusiastic and inclusive team player with a positive mindset and drive to succeed.
• Excellent interpersonal, time management and organisational skills.
• Passionate about delivering exceptional guest experience with keen attention to detail.

What's in it for you?

At Estelle, we prioritize your well being and growth, offering a range of perks to enrich your experience. Enjoy exclusive staff rates, biannual socials, and Estelleversary surprises. Nurture your well being with stocked colleague spaces. Engage in forums shaping The Estelle Way. Utilise the provided uniforms and onsite seamstress support. Join us for a fulfilling journey where you are valued, supported, and celebrated.

Here at Estelle, we want to create a unified culture and sense of belonging throughout. We have a range of perks and benefits at your fingertips:

• Biannual company socials plus smaller social and sports groups.
• Exclusive staff rates and F&B discounts across sister properties.
• Estelleversary gifting for all employees.
• Colleague spaces stocked with food, drinks and a selection of juices, teas and coffees.
• Goes without saying but we will feed you during your shift.
• Added protection of our pension, health cash plan and life assurance schemes.
• 28 days holiday, inclusive of bank holidays, which increases with length of service.
• Colleague Forums and Sustainability Committees to help create The Estelle Way.
• Recommend a friend bonus scheme.
• Uniform provided, cleaned, and pressed.
• Onsite seamstresses to ensure your uniform is fitted and repaired.

About gratuities & service charge

• Gratuities (tips) are paid on a pro rata basis regardless of your role.
• It is estimated that in 2026, our full time employees can expect to receive in the range of £5,000 in addition to their annual salary.