At a Glance
- 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 and luxury-level perks.
- 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 unique opportunity to create a kitchen culture focused on growth and excellence.
The predicted salary is between 51000 - 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
- 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
- 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.
Head Chef - Japanese Restaurant (City of London) employer: Organic Recruitment Ltd
Contact Detail:
Organic Recruitment Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef - Japanese Restaurant (City of London)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in modern Japanese cuisine. Attend workshops or culinary events that focus on Japanese techniques to enhance your knowledge and show your passion for the craft.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with other professionals in the luxury dining sector. Building relationships with suppliers and fellow chefs can provide you with valuable insights and potential recommendations when applying for this role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your vision for the restaurant during interviews. Think about how you would blend traditional Japanese elements with modern dining experiences, and be ready to articulate this clearly.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your leadership skills by sharing examples of how you've successfully built and trained kitchen teams in previous roles. Highlighting your ability to inspire and mentor others will be crucial for this position.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef - Japanese Restaurant (City of London)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Head Chef position. Familiarise yourself with modern Japanese cuisine and the specific skills required for this luxury dining environment.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experience in luxury dining and Japanese cuisine. Emphasise your leadership skills, kitchen management experience, and any previous roles in new restaurant openings.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for Japanese cooking and your vision for the restaurant. Discuss how your background aligns with the role and how you plan to contribute to the restaurant's success.
Showcase Your Creativity: If possible, include examples of your previous menu creations or culinary innovations. This could be in the form of a portfolio or a brief description of dishes that reflect your style and understanding of modern Japanese cuisine.
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 who are looking for someone passionate about their craft.
✨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 Operational Questions
Expect questions about kitchen operations, including cost control and compliance. Be ready to discuss your experience with supplier sourcing and equipment selection, as these are crucial for setting up a new kitchen. Highlight any innovative practices you've implemented in previous roles.
✨Craft a Seasonal Menu Concept
Since the role involves developing a refined seasonal menu, come prepared with ideas that celebrate modern Japanese cuisine. Think about how you can blend traditional techniques with international influences, and be ready to discuss your vision for the restaurant's culinary identity.