Tips for cooking up a winning Kitchen Assistant interview

Landing a kitchen assistant role at M&B is your chance to be part of a busy, buzzing kitchen where every day is a chance to learn, grow, and help create unforgettable dining experiences. But before you can get chopping and prepping, you’ve got to ace your interview.

This guide is packed with practical tips to help you stand out, showcase the right behaviours, and leave a lasting impression. From demonstrating enthusiasm and a positive attitude to showing teamwork, adaptability, and a passion for hospitality, we’ll help you shine in your kitchen assistant interview.

Understand the role, what a kitchen assistant does

Before your interview, it helps to know exactly what a kitchen assistant does. At M&B, kitchen assistants keep the kitchen running smoothly, supporting chefs with prep work, cleaning, and keeping everything organised and hygienic.

It’s a fast-paced role that relies on teamwork, attention to detail, and reliability. Showing that you understand the responsibilities, and that you’re ready to step in and help the team, can really make you stand out in a kitchen assistant interview.

Show your enthusiasm, why you want the role 

Passion goes a long way in a kitchen assistant interview. Let the interviewers know why you’re excited about working at M&B and being part of a busy, welcoming kitchen team.

Talk about any previous experience you have in kitchens or customer service, and highlight your willingness to learn and take on new challenges. Even if it’s your first hospitality role, showing genuine interest and a positive attitude can make a big impression. 

At M&B, we’re all about Hospitality with Heart, which means creating warm, welcoming experiences for every guest while supporting and valuing every member of our team. Let these values shine through in your interview. 

Prepare for common questions, show your skills and heart 

Before your interview, take some time to think about what you could bring to a kitchen assistant role. You can also check out our dedicated blog for tips on the behaviours and qualities that help kitchen assistants succeed.

Here are some common questions to expect: 

• Can you tell us about a time you worked as part of a team?
• How do you handle pressure in a busy kitchen environment?
• What steps do you take to maintain hygiene and food safety?
• Why do you want to work at M&B as a kitchen assistant?
• Can you give an example of a time you solved a problem or took initiative at work or school? 

Think of examples from past jobs, school, or volunteering where you worked well in a team, stayed calm under pressure, or followed rules carefully.

Show that you care about helping the team and creating a great experience for guests, even behind the scenes. Practising your answers and having a few stories ready will help you come across as confident, capable, and enthusiastic. 

Finish strong, make a lasting impression 

End your kitchen assistant interview on a confident note. Smile, make eye contact, and show enthusiasm for the role. Ask thoughtful questions about training, progression, or the team, and you’ll stand out as someone genuinely interested in contributing to M&B’s kitchens.

Cook up your success as a kitchen assistant 

A kitchen assistant interview is your first step to joining a busy, supportive team where you can learn, grow, and make a real impact. Prepare, show how great you are, and let your passion for hospitality shine.

With the right attitude, a bit of practice, and a focus on teamwork, you can ace your interview and start your journey at M&B. Explore our kitchen assistant jobs today and bring your Hospitality with Heart to life!