Chef cover letter example & writing guide

As a chef, writing a cover letter for a new job allows you to highlight the creativity, leadership, and value you bring to a kitchen. Whether you’re an executive chef applying at top-rated restaurants or a sous chef looking to advance in your career, a cover letter is an essential ingredient for your success.

In this guide and chef cover letter example, we’ll show you how to create an appetizing cover letter. We’ll discuss:

• What to include in a chef cover letter

• How to write a captivating introduction

• What information to include in the cover letter body

• How to close a cover letter

What should your chef cover letter include?

Writing a cover letter is a lot like preparing a recipe. You must follow the right steps and add the necessary ingredients for success. Your chef cover letter should begin with a header that contains your contact information and the information of the company to which you’re applying. After your header, greet the hiring manager with a professional salutation, using their name if possible.

The rest of your cover letter should include an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. We’ll discuss each section in more detail below.

What can you write in the introduction of your cover letter?

The opening paragraph of your letter should give the hiring manager a taste of what’s to come. Grab their attention by noting one or two of your culinary accomplishments.

In the introduction, you can focus on your expertise in specific cuisines, your ability to create innovative dishes, or your leadership in the kitchen. List your most valuable qualities and explain how your skills can make you successful in a new role.

Your introduction should also express your enthusiasm for the position. Mention why you’re choosing to apply for the role. If someone referred you to the job, include their name in your opening paragraph. A mutual connection can go a long way toward landing an interview.

What should be mentioned in the cover letter body for a chef vacancy?

The body of your letter is the main course. It allows you to satisfy an employer’s appetite for learning more about your qualifications.

It’s helpful to divide the body into three sections:

1. Why you? Describe how your training and experience make you qualified for the position. If you have a culinary degree or a relevant certification, mention those credentials. Highlight your experience in kitchens, including your top achievements as a chef. Use quantifiable data to prove your expertise. For example, you may discuss the sales you generated for a restaurant or the number of five-star reviews you received.

2. Why here? Explain why you want to work for the restaurant or the dining establishment where you’re applying. For example, you may specialize in the same cuisine, or the restaurant’s mission may align with your values. Also, discuss why you’d be a good addition to the restaurant’s team. You may highlight your experience creating seasonal menus or managing kitchen staff, for instance.

3. Why now? There’s a reason you’re applying for a new chef position at this point in your career. Share your goals or motivations with the hiring manager. Do you want to work in a restaurant where you can create unique dishes? Do you dream of winning a James Beard award? Explain how your culinary background and experience have led you to apply for the new role.

Get more tips in our article on how to write a cover letter body.

How to write a cover letter closing

The last paragraph should wrap up your letter and summarize your main points. Restate your interest in the role and thank the hiring manager for reviewing your application.

Follow these guidelines to close your letter successfully:

• Align your skills and experience to the role. Explain how your culinary skills and background can make you a valuable member of the team. For example: “I’m excited to bring my passion for excellence and dedication to creating exceptional dining experiences to your restaurant.”

• End with a call to action. Encourage the hiring manager to call you for an interview, like this: “I look forward to discussing my qualifications with you in more detail at an interview.”

For more advice, read our article on how to close a cover letter.

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