- Employment
- Contract
- Seniority
- Junior
- Department
- Culinary & Food Production
- Posted
- Nov 6, 2026
About Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Launched in 1982, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a luxury train operated by Belmond, part of LVMH, that celebrates the golden age of European rail travel. Its meticulously restored vintage carriages, distinguished cuisine and attentive service create an exceptional setting for hospitality professionals. Connecting celebrated European destinations, including Paris and Venice, the train brings together teams whose expertise spans culinary arts, onboard service and railway operations. As an employer, it offers a distinctive environment where precision, discretion and cultural sensitivity are central to the guest experience. Working aboard this historic train means contributing to a living travel heritage through exacting standards and thoughtfully personalised service.
The Demi Chef de Partie supports the Chef de Partie and Sous Chefs in food preparation, service, quality control, food safety, and kitchen operations aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, a Belmond train. The role is a contract position based in Venice and requires prior Demi Chef de Partie experience in luxury or premium hospitality, English fluency, and flexibility to travel across Europe and work varying schedules.
Role & Responsibilities
- Support the Chef de Partie and Sous Chefs with daily food preparation, production, and recipe execution.
- Prepare food for service operations as directed by the Chef de Partie, Sous Chefs, or Executive Sous Chef.
- Keep the allocated workstation and equipment clean, organized, and properly prepared.
- Monitor stock levels and inform the Chef de Partie when the section requires replenishment.
- Maintain quality and strict control over portioning and product freshness.
- Assess ingredients for freshness, quality, and suitability, and report products that do not meet standards.
- Ensure food production, preparation, and presentation meet established quality standards.
- Guide and support kitchen stewards as required, in line with established standards.
- Maintain thorough knowledge of menu items, recipes, preparation methods, and presentation standards.
- Complete required food safety checks and records, including temperature, cooling, and reheating checks, and promptly report deviations.
- Handle, date-label, and store food correctly, and rotate stock using FIFO or FEFO procedures as appropriate.
- Operate and maintain departmental equipment correctly and report malfunctions immediately.
- Communicate clearly and effectively with team members across shifts.
- Follow hygiene and safety requirements and correct-use guidelines for kitchen equipment and utensils.
- Check expiry dates and stock rotation, including FIFO, in the section periodically.
- Monitor waste to help maintain profit margins.
- Promptly report potential hazards and maintenance issues to management.
- Understand dietary requirements and allergens and, under supervision, provide alternatives as requested.
- Carry out other duties as required by management.
Qualifications
- Previous experience as a Demi Chef de Partie in luxury hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants, fine-dining establishments, luxury cruises, or premium hospitality environments.
- Good knowledge of fine-dining techniques, food preparation, and menu execution.
- Experience in fast-paced, high-standard culinary operations.
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Knowledge of HACCP, food safety, and hygiene regulations.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to culinary excellence.
- Ability to work effectively in multicultural and international teams.
- Flexibility to travel extensively across Europe and work varying schedules, including weekends and public holidays.
- Fluency in English; additional European languages are an advantage.
Skills
Experience
Previous experience as a Demi Chef de Partie in luxury hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants, fine-dining establishments, luxury cruises, or premium hospitality environments.
Workplace
The successful candidate will be located in Venice, Veneto, Italy.
Benefits
Discovering Belmond program with complimentary stays at Belmond properties, subject to availability; discounted rates on trains, cruises, and safaris; food and beverage discounts; comprehensive health and life insurance coverage; and unlimited access to learning platforms.
Culture
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express’s workplace culture is shaped by the heritage of its historic carriages, meticulous attention to detail and the art of personalised hospitality. Its distinctive environment brings together service, culinary and operational expertise, requiring close teamwork and adaptability to deliver an exceptional guest experience aboard a moving luxury train.
About Cerulean
Cerulean is the definitive career portal for the global luxury industry. We match exceptional professionals with exclusive opportunities at the world's most prestigious brands. From haute couture and fine watchmaking to prestige beauty, hospitality, and boutique retail, Cerulean centralises luxury employment to help you find the career for which you were destined.