Struggling with chef shortages?
Whether it’s a last-minute emergency or a planned holiday, having the right kitchen staff in place is critical for keeping service running smoothly.
But should you hire an agency chef or a relief chef? And what’s the difference between the two? Let’s break it down so you can make the right choice for your kitchen.
What is an Agency Chef?
An agency chef is a highly skilled professional supplied by a chef recruitment agency (like The Chef Tree) to cover shifts on short notice. They can be booked for a single day, a week, or even longer-term placements, depending on your needs.
Key Benefits of Hiring an Agency Chef:
✔️ Immediate Cover – Available within hours, perfect for last-minute gaps.
✔️ Fully Vetted & Qualified – Chefs arrive ready to work, with DBS checks and allergen training.
✔️ No Long-Term Commitment – Flexibility to hire as and when needed.
Best for:
Restaurants, hotels, schools, care homes, and businesses that need temporary cover for sickness, holidays, or peak seasons.
What is a Relief Chef?
A relief chef is a specialist chef hired to provide temporary cover but typically for longer-term placements. They often step in when a permanent chef is on leave or if a business is recruiting for a new full-time position.
Key Benefits of Hiring a Relief Chef:
✔️ Consistency & Stability – Works for extended periods, ensuring continuity.
✔️ More Integration with Your Team – Becomes part of your kitchen for the time they’re needed.
✔️ Specialist Experience – Relief chefs often have years of experience across different kitchens.
Best for: Hotels, fine dining restaurants, and venues needing cover for maternity leave, extended sick leave, or long recruitment periods.
Which One is Right for You?
Scenario Best Choice
You need a chef today to cover sickness ✅ Agency Chef
Your head chef is on holiday for two weeks ✅ Relief Chef
You have a last-minute event and need extra hands ✅ Agency Chef
You’re recruiting for a permanent role but need cover in the meantime ✅ Relief Chef
You want flexibility with no long-term commitment ✅ Agency Chef
If you’re unsure which option works best, The Chef Tree can help. We provide highly trained, DBS-checked chefs for both short-term and long-term placements.
👉 Need an agency chef today? Call us now on 0117 904 1001 or request a booking here.