Head Chef sushi

Wabi Nori Queens; New York (NY); On-site; USD 34,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tips

Job summary

Wabi Nori Queens is seeking an experienced Head Sushi Chef to lead an intricate 16-course omakase program. You will curate four appetizers, eleven nigiri courses, and a dessert while ensuring precise timing, presentation, and guest experience.

You will collaborate on seasonal menu changes, manage pricing and food costs, and supervise staff to maintain consistent quality. Immediate full-time start with generous tips offered.

Qualifications

• Experience in omakase service required.
• Full-time employment.
• Immediate start.
• Hourly wage listed as $25–$28 per hour.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain the approved 16-course omakase menu: four appetizers, eleven nigiri courses, and one homemade dessert.
• Work with management on seasonal menu changes, pricing, and food-cost targets.
• Select and inspect all fish and premium ingredients before service.
• Prepare an accurate daily omakase par based on reservations and expected walk-ins.
• Confirm allergies, dietary restrictions, and special occasions before beginning service.
• Maintain consistent rice temperature, seasoning, fish cuts, portions, garnishes, and presentation.
• Control the timing and progression of every course so guests are never rushed or left waiting too long.
• Explain each course professionally, including the fish, preparation, sauce, garnish, and recommended way to eat it.
• Coordinate with the back kitchen so appetizers and dessert are prepared and served at the correct time.
• Train another qualified sushi chef who can execute the omakase properly when the Head Sushi Chef is unavailable.
• Track premium ingredients carefully, including otoro, chutoro, uni, caviar, wagyu, and seasonal fish.
• Prevent unnecessary waste while never serving ingredients that fail freshness or quality standards.
• Keep the omakase counter clean, organized, and guest-ready throughout service.
• Communicate immediately with management about unavailable ingredients, substitutions, guest complaints, or quality concerns.

Job description

Omakase Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain the approved 16-course omakase menu: four appetizers, eleven nigiri courses, and one homemade dessert.
• Work with management on seasonal menu changes, pricing, and food-cost targets.
• Do not change ingredients, portions, or courses without management approval.
• Select and inspect all fish and premium ingredients before service.
• Prepare an accurate daily omakase par based on reservations and expected walk-ins.
• Confirm allergies, dietary restrictions, and special occasions before beginning service.
• Maintain consistent rice temperature, seasoning, fish cuts, portions, garnishes, and presentation.
• Control the timing and progression of every course so guests are never rushed or left waiting too long.
• Personally supervise or approve every omakase plate before it is served.
• Explain each course professionally, including the fish, preparation, sauce, garnish, and recommended way to eat it.
• Coordinate with the back kitchen so appetizers and dessert are prepared and served at the correct time.
• Train another qualified sushi chef who can execute the omakase properly when the Head Sushi Chef is unavailable.
• Track premium ingredients carefully, including otoro, chutoro, uni, caviar, wagyu, and seasonal fish.
• Prevent unnecessary waste while never serving ingredients that fail Wabi Nori's freshness or quality standards.
• Keep the omakase counter clean, organized, and guest-ready throughout service.
• Communicate immediately with management about unavailable ingredients, substitutions, guest complaints, or quality concerns.

The Head Sushi Chef is accountable for making sure every omakase guest receives the same high-quality food, service, pacing, presentation, and overall experience.

Experience: Required
Employment: Full-time
Salary: $25 - $28 hourly
Benefits: Tips
Starting time: Immediate start!

About Wabi Nori Queens

Why Wabi Nori Is a Great Place to Work. . Wabi Nori Queens is a growing Japanese restaurant where employees can build real culinary and hospitality careers.