The role of a Café Kitchen Assistant at Waterstones is more than just preparing food—it’s about creating a welcoming atmosphere where customers can enjoy a relaxing break alongside their favorite books. Working behind the scenes in the café, your duties will include food preparation, maintaining cleanliness and hygiene, supporting baristas, and ensuring that both front-of-house and kitchen areas run smoothly. This job is ideal for individuals who are passionate about food service, teamwork, and customer satisfaction.
As of 2025, the average hourly wage for a Waterstones Café Kitchen Assistant in the UK ranges between £10.42 and £11.50 per hour, depending on location and experience. In addition to a competitive salary, staff often enjoy discounts, flexible hours, and opportunities for career progression within Waterstones’ wider retail network.
20 Interview Questions and Answers for Waterstones Café Kitchen Assistant Role
1. Tell us about yourself.
This is your chance to briefly highlight your experience, attitude, and what brought you to apply.
Example Answer:
“I’m a friendly and hardworking individual with over a year of experience in food service. I enjoy working in fast-paced environments and have always admired the calm, bookish vibe of Waterstones Cafés. I’m passionate about customer service and love preparing high-quality food and drinks that people can enjoy.”
2. What do you know about Waterstones and our cafés?
They want to see you’ve done your research.
Example Answer:
“I know Waterstones is a leading UK book retailer, and many locations have integrated cafés to enhance the customer experience. The cafés offer a relaxing space for customers to enjoy quality coffee, snacks, and light meals while browsing or reading.”
3. Why do you want to work as a kitchen assistant at Waterstones Café?
Focus on alignment with the company’s vibe and your personal interests.
Example Answer:
“I’ve always loved the atmosphere at Waterstones, and the café adds something special. I enjoy working in food prep and love the idea of being part of a team that enhances the customer’s overall experience.”
4. Do you have any experience working in a kitchen or café?
Mention any relevant experience, even if it’s from a different sector.
Example Answer:
“Yes, I’ve worked in a local coffee shop for 10 months where I handled food preparation, dishwashing, and occasionally helped serve during busy hours.”
5. How do you handle working under pressure during busy periods?
This is key in café environments.
Example Answer:
“I stay focused, stay calm, and prioritize tasks efficiently. If needed, I communicate clearly with teammates to ensure we all stay on the same page.”
6. How would you maintain cleanliness and hygiene in the kitchen?
They want to ensure you understand food safety protocols.
Example Answer:
“I strictly follow health and safety guidelines, such as washing hands regularly, sanitizing surfaces, labeling and storing food correctly, and maintaining daily cleaning schedules.”
7. How do you handle multitasking during rush hours?
Show your ability to juggle responsibilities.
Example Answer:
“I use a mental checklist and focus on completing tasks efficiently. I also listen to instructions from supervisors and support my team wherever needed.”
8. What would you do if you noticed a colleague wasn’t following hygiene rules?
This tests your accountability and teamwork.
Example Answer:
“I would politely remind them of the protocol and, if the issue continued, I’d inform the supervisor. It’s important to maintain standards for everyone’s safety.”
9. How do you feel about working behind the scenes rather than front-of-house?
Show appreciation for the kitchen role.
Example Answer:
“I enjoy kitchen work because I love being hands-on with food and contributing to smooth operations, even if customers don’t see it directly.”
10. Can you describe a time when you had to work as part of a team?
Teamwork is crucial.
Example Answer:
“At my last job, during a staff shortage, I helped both in the kitchen and front counter. We communicated constantly and managed to serve everyone on time.”
11. What are your strengths relevant to this role?
Focus on practical and interpersonal strengths.
Example Answer:
“I’m reliable, punctual, and great at following routines. I also have a positive attitude, which helps maintain team morale during busy shifts.”
12. What are your weaknesses?
Be honest but constructive.
Example Answer:
“I sometimes focus too much on details, which can slow me down. But I’ve been working on improving my time management to balance quality with speed.”
13. How would you react if a customer made a complaint about food quality?
Even back-of-house staff may need to address concerns.
Example Answer:
“I’d inform the front-of-house team immediately and ensure the issue is resolved quickly. I’d also double-check the kitchen’s process to prevent recurrence.”
14. Are you familiar with food allergen protocols?
A must in today’s food service environment.
Example Answer:
“Yes. I understand the importance of preventing cross-contamination and always labeling allergens clearly during prep and storage.”
15. Can you follow specific recipes or portion sizes consistently?
Precision matters.
Example Answer:
“Absolutely. I always follow recipe guidelines carefully to ensure consistency and customer satisfaction.”
16. Are you comfortable doing repetitive tasks like dishwashing or restocking?
Be honest but open.
Example Answer:
“Yes. I understand these tasks are part of keeping the kitchen running smoothly, and I don’t mind doing them.”
17. What shifts are you available for?
Be clear but flexible.
Example Answer:
“I’m available weekdays and weekends, and I’m open to both morning and evening shifts.”
18. How do you ensure your workspace remains safe and hazard-free?
They want safety awareness.
Example Answer:
“I keep floors dry, store knives and equipment properly, and ensure electrical cords and hot surfaces are not left unattended.”
19. How would you deal with running low on an ingredient during a shift?
Resourcefulness is key.
Example Answer:
“I’d notify the supervisor immediately, suggest possible substitutions if appropriate, and document the issue for future inventory management.”
20. Do you see yourself growing within Waterstones?
Shows motivation.
Example Answer:
“Yes, I’d love to grow within the company—possibly into a supervisor or barista role. I admire Waterstones’ brand and would love to stay long-term.”
Final Interview Tips and Encouragement
Interviews can feel intimidating, but preparation is your best friend. Review the Waterstones Café values, study the basics of food safety, and practice speaking confidently about your past experiences. Dress neatly, arrive early, and bring a warm smile—café culture is about friendliness and teamwork.
Remember: the interviewer isn’t just looking for perfect answers. They want someone reliable, cooperative, and genuinely interested in the role. Show your enthusiasm, ask a thoughtful question at the end, and don’t be afraid to be yourself.
Good luck—you’ve got this!
