Head Chef - Japanese Restaurant (London Area)

Head Chef – Luxury Modern Japanese Restaurant – New Opening – Kensington

📍 Kensington, London | Up to £68,000 + Outstanding Benefits

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.