Duties & Responsibilities
1. Culinary Leadership & Management
• Lead the culinary vision and uphold the philosophy of Japanese dining. Plan, develop and execute authentic Japanese menus.
• Oversee preparation and presentation of food courses - sushi, sashimi, tempura, grill, broth-based dishes and seasonal delicacies. Ensure
consistency, presentation and high quality of all food served.
• Handle top-tier ingredients such as uni, otoro, wagyu, seasonal fish and traditional Japanese produce.
• Conduct daily checks on tools, equipment and ingredient quality control.
2. Menu Creation & Seasonal Innovation
• Collaborate with management on menu concepts aligned with restaurant brand positioning.
• Create refined menus that reflect seasonality, harmony and balance of flavors.
• Develop omakase sequences, kaiseki course progression and chef’s specials.
• Ensure consistent execution of every course with emphasis on presentation and authenticity.
3. Kitchen Operations & Team Management
• Lead, train and mentor the culinary team, fostering a culture of discipline and respect.
• Oversee daily kitchen operations, including station setup, workflow, cleanliness and time coordination during service.
• Conduct skill assessments and training on knife techniques, fish butchery, rice preparation, stock-making and plating artistry.
• Manage staff scheduling, performance reviews and succession planning for key kitchen roles.
• Minimize food waste and optimize kitchen efficiency
4. Ingredient Sourcing & Cost Management
• Monitor inventory, ordering, storage and stock rotation
• Source and select premium seafood and specialty ingredients from reputable suppliers.
• Maintain strong relationships with Japanese vendors, fish markets and importers.
• Control food cost, portioning and waste while maintaining high quality standards.
• Ensure proper storage, handling and preservation techniques (aging, marination, curing, rice management).
5. Hygiene, Safety & Compliance
• Ensure strict compliance with food safety regulations and guidelines.
• Conduct regular sanitation inspections and maintain meticulous cleanliness standards.
• Oversee proper use and maintenance of specialized Japanese kitchen tools.
6. Guest Experience & Collaboration
• Work closely with Front-of-House to ensure seamless service flow and timing between courses.
• Engage with guests when required to explain omakase inspirations, ingredients, and culinary philosophy.
• Address and resolve guest feedback with professionalism and hospitality mindset.