Working as a Relief Chef: What to Expect and How to Thrive
The culinary world is evolving, and so are the careers within it. While the traditional route of climbing the brigade ladder in a single kitchen still appeals to many, an increasing number of chefs are opting for a more flexible path: relief work.
But what exactly does it mean to be a relief chef, and what should you expect if you're considering the move? More importantly — how can you not just survive, but thrive in this increasingly popular role?
What Is a Relief Chef?
A relief chef (sometimes called a temp chef or locum chef) steps into kitchens on a short-term basis — covering sick leave, holiday absences, staff shortages, or peak demand. Assignments can range from a single day to several weeks, in settings as varied as fine-dining restaurants, gastropubs, event catering, or care homes.
For chefs who enjoy variety and adaptability, it's a brilliant way to broaden experience and keep work interesting.
What to Expect as a Relief Chef
1. A fast-paced introduction.
You’ll need to hit the ground running. There’s rarely a lengthy onboarding process — kitchens bring in relief chefs because they need someone now. Expect to be shown the fridge, the menu, and the rota… and then get stuck in.
2. Different standards and systems.
Each kitchen will have its own way of doing things. From ordering processes to hygiene routines and prep lists, part of the job is adapting quickly — without letting standards slip.
3. Feast or famine in your schedule.
Relief work can be seasonal or unpredictable. You might be turning down bookings in summer, then scrambling for shifts in January. Planning ahead and working with a reliable agency can help even things out.
4. You’ll need thick skin and soft skills.
You're stepping into established teams — sometimes in the middle of a crisis. Reading the room, showing humility, and being friendly without overstepping is key.
How to Thrive as a Relief Chef
✔ Be genuinely flexible.
The best relief chefs are open to different shifts, travel, cuisines, and styles of service. Saying “yes” (within reason) helps build relationships and gets you called back.
✔ Pack your own toolkit.
Even if the kitchen provides equipment, having your own knife roll, apron, and thermometer shows professionalism — and keeps you prepped for anything.
✔ Stay up to date with food safety.
Food hygiene certifications are essential, especially when you're moving between sites. Keep them current and accessible.
✔ Build a reputation, not just a CV.
Relief chefs who turn up on time, work hard, and slot in seamlessly get recommended again and again. Your reliability is your brand.
✔ Consider joining a specialist agency.
Working with a temp chef agency (like Chefs Jobs UK) gives you access to vetted placements, support if something goes wrong, and regular shift opportunities that suit your lifestyle.
Is Relief Work Right for You?
Relief work isn’t for everyone — but if you thrive on variety, love new challenges, and want to take control of your schedule, it might just be the perfect move.
Whether you're looking to fill a gap between jobs, earn extra cash, or build a portfolio career that’s as varied as it is rewarding, working as a relief chef opens up a world of opportunity.