The Chef de Partie (CDP) / Station Chef is a hands-on culinary role responsible for running a specific section of the kitchen to a consistently high standard. In a restaurant, club, or lounge environment, the CDP ensures dishes from their station are prepared, cooked, and presented correctly, on time, and in line with brand standards, recipe specifications, and service expectations. The role is essential to smooth kitchen operations, especially during peak service, when speed, accuracy, and teamwork directly affect guest experience.
- Position in the organisation:
The CDP sits within the Kitchen (Back of House) team and typically reports to the Sous Chef or Head Chef. They may supervise Commis Chefs, Kitchen Assistants, or Apprentices assigned to their section, and work closely with other station chefs to maintain coordinated service.
- Key responsibilities:
- Manage and operate a designated kitchen section such as grill, sauté, garnish, pastry, cold larder, or sauce.
- Prepare ingredients, stock the station, and ensure all mise en place is complete before service.
- Cook and plate dishes to specification, maintaining consistent taste, portioning, texture, and presentation.
- Monitor quality, freshness, food safety, hygiene, and correct storage practices at all times.
- Control station efficiency by reducing waste, maintaining portion control, and supporting cost-conscious operations.
- Communicate clearly with senior chefs and front-of-house where required to keep service moving smoothly.
- Assist with training, coaching, and supporting junior team members on the section.
- What success looks like:
A successful CDP is organised, calm under pressure, and highly dependable. They have strong technical cooking skills, excellent attention to detail, and a pride in producing consistent results. They communicate well, work cleanly, and adapt quickly during busy service. The best CDPs are team players who take ownership of their station, solve problems proactively, and maintain standards without needing constant supervision.