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- Tasks: Lead the launch and setup of a luxury Japanese restaurant kitchen.
- Company: Join a stunning new fine dining restaurant in Kensington, London.
- Benefits: Enjoy a salary up to £68,000 plus luxury benefits and staff dining.
- Why this job: Shape a world-class kitchen and culinary identity from day one.
- Qualifications: Must have experience in luxury dining and a passion for Japanese cuisine.
- Other info: This is a rare opportunity to design a kitchen with a focus on excellence.
The predicted salary is between 58000 - 68000 £ per year.
We are recruiting a Head Chef for the launch of a stunning new modern Japanese fine dining restaurant, opening October 2025 in the heart of Kensington. This is a rare opportunity to take creative and operational leadership of a luxury opening — set within a design-led space offering panoramic views over London.
With a clear focus on precision-led Japanese techniques, exceptional produce, and elevated guest experience, the concept blends the elegance of fine dining with the soul of authentic Japanese cooking.
What We Offer:
- Salary up to £68,000, depending on experience
- A comprehensive package of luxury-level benefits:
- Development programs
- Exclusive brand collaborations and events
- Supplier visits and excursions
- Uniform and laundry provided
- Above industry standard on Pension / Holiday and other entitlements
- Staff Dining and enhanced care for you and the team
- A state-of-the-art kitchen, designed in collaboration with the incoming Head Chef
- A leadership role in one of the capital’s most anticipated new openings
Your Role:
- Lead the launch and full kitchen setup, including layout design, supplier sourcing, and equipment selection
- Build and train a high-performance brigade across all sections — hot, sushi, robata, tempura, pastry
- Develop a refined, seasonal menu celebrating modern Japanese cuisine with international influence
- Oversee daily service with consistency, calmness, and detail — maintaining Michelin-level discipline and finesse
- Work closely with the Executive Team to shape the culinary identity and guest journey from day one
- Champion a kitchen culture built on professionalism, mentorship, and excellence
- Drive all aspects of BOH operations, including cost control, compliance, training, and innovation
About You:
- An experienced Head Chef with a proven background in luxury dining environments
- A deep understanding of Japanese cuisine and a genuine passion for its craft, culture, and seasonal sensibility
- Experienced in new openings — confident in kitchen planning, team structuring, and supplier coordination
- A natural leader who thrives in high-performance, detail-driven environments
- Organised, composed, and collaborative — someone who inspires confidence in their team
- Committed to creating a kitchen culture that values growth, standards, and creativity
This role offers the rare opportunity to design and lead a world-class kitchen from the ground up — combining the elegance of Japanese tradition with the innovation of modern luxury dining. Apply now to shape the future of one of London’s most exciting new culinary destinations.
Contact Detail:
Organic Recruitment Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef - Japanese Restaurant
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the culinary industry, especially those who have experience in Japanese cuisine or luxury dining. Attend food festivals, culinary events, or workshops to meet potential colleagues and mentors who can provide insights and possibly refer you to opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion for Japanese cuisine by engaging in relevant online communities or forums. Share your experiences, recipes, and techniques, which can help you build a personal brand that resonates with the values of a high-end Japanese restaurant.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the latest trends in modern Japanese dining and be prepared to discuss how you can incorporate these into the restaurant's menu. This will demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to innovation during any discussions with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to articulate your vision for the kitchen culture you want to create. Think about how you would foster professionalism, mentorship, and creativity among your team, as this aligns closely with the expectations for the Head Chef role.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef - Japanese Restaurant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and expectations of a Head Chef in a luxury Japanese restaurant. Familiarise yourself with the specific skills required, such as knowledge of Japanese cuisine and experience in high-end dining.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experience in luxury dining environments and your expertise in Japanese cuisine. Include specific achievements, such as successful menu creations or team leadership experiences that demonstrate your capability for this role.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your passion for Japanese cooking and your vision for the restaurant. Discuss your approach to kitchen culture, team training, and how you plan to create a refined menu that aligns with the restaurant's concept.
Showcase Your Creativity: If possible, include examples of your previous work, such as menu designs or photos of dishes you've created. This will help illustrate your culinary style and creativity, which are crucial for a role that involves developing a seasonal menu.
How to prepare for a job interview at Organic Recruitment Ltd
✨Showcase Your Culinary Passion
Make sure to express your genuine love for Japanese cuisine during the interview. Share specific experiences that highlight your understanding of its techniques and culture, as this will resonate with the interviewers looking for someone who truly embodies the essence of their restaurant.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Head Chef, you'll need to lead a team effectively. Prepare examples of how you've successfully built and trained kitchen brigades in the past. Discuss your approach to fostering a positive kitchen culture and how you inspire confidence in your team.
✨Prepare for Menu Development Discussion
Be ready to discuss your ideas for a refined, seasonal menu that celebrates modern Japanese cuisine. Research current trends and think about how you can incorporate international influences while maintaining authenticity. This shows your creativity and strategic thinking.
✨Understand Operational Excellence
Familiarise yourself with the operational aspects of running a high-end kitchen, including cost control and compliance. Be prepared to discuss how you would drive innovation while maintaining Michelin-level standards, as this is crucial for the role.
