Junior Sous Chef - Kioku by Endo, Whitehall
Kioku by Endo sits on the sixth floor of Raffles London at The OWO, the former Old War Office, with views across Whitehall, Westminster and the London skyline. Kioku means "memory" in Japanese. The menu tells the story of third generation sushi master Endo Kazutoshi's life, bringing together his Japanese heritage and his Mediterranean training. As part of Creative Restaurant Group, we're looking for a talented Junior Sous Chef to join our senior kitchen team and grow with us.
The Role
As Junior Sous Chef, you will support the Head Chef and Sous Chefs in leading the kitchen. You'll keep standards high across every section, every service. Our menu covers nigiri and sashimi, prime meats and fish from the robata grill, and dishes with a Mediterranean influence, served across the main dining room, the chef's table and the private dining room in the turret. You will lead by example on the stove and on the pass, working as one team with the sushi and front of house teams to deliver an experience like no other in London.
This is a brilliant opportunity for an ambitious chef ready to take their next step into kitchen leadership under one of the world's most respected sushi masters.
What You'll Be Doing
Supporting the Head Chef and Sous Chefs in the daily running of the kitchen
Running the pass and leading service when senior chefs are off
Making sure every dish leaves the kitchen to the highest standard
Overseeing sections and stepping in wherever the kitchen needs you
Training, guiding and developing Chefs de Partie, Demi Chefs de Partie and Commis
Helping with ordering, stock control and keeping waste to a minimum
Supporting rotas, briefings and the smooth running of each service
Leading by example on food safety, hygiene, HACCP and allergen procedures
Contributing ideas and taking part in tastings as the menu evolves
Working closely with the sushi team and front of house to keep service seamless
What We're Looking For
Previous experience as a Junior Sous Chef or strong Senior Chef de Partie in a fine dining, Michelin starred or luxury hotel kitchen is essential. Japanese kitchen experience is a real advantage.
You will need:
Strong technical skills and excellent attention to detail
A deep respect for produce and a real interest in Japanese cuisine
Confidence leading a section and supporting a team during busy services
A calm, organised approach under pressure
Clear communication and a team first attitude
A good understanding of food safety, HACCP and allergen management
The drive to keep learning and grow into a Sous Chef role
Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and bank holidays
Salary: Competitive, based on experience, plus benefits
Why Join Us?
At Creative Restaurant Group, we want people to build careers, not simply fill roles. You will cook alongside Chef Endo and an experienced senior kitchen team. As your skills develop, you'll have genuine opportunities to progress into Sous Chef and Senior Sous Chef positions.
Cook in one of London's most remarkable rooftop restaurants
Learn directly from Chef Endo and his team
Hands on development in kitchen leadership and Japanese technique
Clear opportunities for career progression
The chance to grow across Creative Restaurant Group, including ENDO, SUMI and HUMO
28 days paid holiday
Staff meals while on duty
Employee discounts across participating restaurants
Wagestream access to your earned pay
Bring your skill, leadership and attention to detail to Kioku, and help us create dishes our guests will remember.
Note: Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK without corporate sponsorship.
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Junior Sous Chef in London employer: Kioku by Endo
At Kioku by Endo, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture in the heart of London. Our team enjoys a range of benefits including shared service charges, delicious team meals, and extensive training opportunities, all while working under the guidance of renowned Culinary Director Chef Endo Kazutoshi. Join us to not only elevate your culinary skills but also to be part of a family that values passion, creativity, and personal growth.
