Counter Sushi Chef – Hand Roll Bar (Guest‑Facing)

SuViche Hospitality Group; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 42,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

OMAKAI Hand Roll Bar in Chicago (River North) is seeking Counter Sushi Chefs to work directly at the counter, crafting hand rolls while engaging guests. This full-time position offers a fast-paced environment with a focus on hospitality and precise knife work.

Candidates should have at least one year of restaurant experience or a strong willingness to learn, and be comfortable describing menu items to guests. Training provided, and safety certifications can be obtained during training.

Qualifications

• One year of restaurant experience is required, or a strong willingness to learn.
• Japanese cuisine knowledge is welcome but not required.
• SafeServe or food handling, alcohol serving, allergy compliance, and sexual harassment prevention certifications required, and all can be obtained during training. We cover the cost of the sexual harassment prevention certificate
• Comfortable with a knife for portioning and prep work, and willing to learn our hand roll technique if you have not done this work before
• Comfortable working in full view of guests, explaining hand rolls and ingredients and answering questions while you keep up with tickets
• Able to learn and memorize the entire food menu in detail, including ingredients, preparation, and presentation
• Able to maintain both quality and speed through a rush
• Communicates well with teammates, servers, and management, especially during a rush
• Reliable transportation to and from the restaurant
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States

Responsibilities

• Prep and Mise en Place: station prep, labeling, and organization.
• Hand Roll Execution: produce rolls to standard with crispy nori.
• Counter Hospitality and Hand Roll Explanation: engage guests and explain menu.
• All Shifts: follow recipes and SOPs, manage prep, and minimize waste.
• Support inventory and ordering accuracy, including deliveries matching orders.

Job description

OMAKAI Hand Roll Bar in Chicago (River North) is seeking Counter Sushi Chefs to work directly at the counter, crafting hand rolls while engaging guests. This full-time position offers a fast-paced environment with a focus on hospitality and precise knife work.

Candidates should have at least one year of restaurant experience or a strong willingness to learn, and be comfortable describing menu items to guests. Training provided, and safety certifications can be obtained during training.