Sushi Chef: Precision Rolls & Elevated Dining

Benihana - Santa Monica; Santa Monica (CA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 72,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance (FT)

Voluntary STD insurance

Voluntary accident & cancer insurance

401(k) plan

Dining discounts

Career development

Paid sick time

Paid time off

EAP

Commuter benefits

Dependent care benefits

Onsite meals

Job summary

Benihana - Santa Monica is seeking a Sushi Chef to craft high-quality sushi and sashimi with precision, creativity, and consistency. You will contribute to an exceptional dining experience by ensuring presentation, taste, and guest satisfaction.

Ideal candidates have prior sushi chef experience, expert knife skills, and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced setting while upholding food safety standards; weekend/night availability preferred.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Sushi Chef or Sushi Cook in a high-volume restaurant.
• Expertise in sushi preparation, knife skills, and traditional Japanese techniques.
• Ability to multi-task and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to presentation, freshness, and quality.
• Understanding of sushi-grade fish handling, food safety, and storage practices.
• Willingness to learn new techniques and contribute to menu innovation.
• Must be able to stand for extended periods and lift to 50 lbs.
• Availability to work nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and a team-first mentality.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and execute all sushi, sashimi, and maki rolls according to Benihana’s high standards.
• Maintain a deep understanding of fish quality, proper cutting techniques, and sushi preparation.
• Ensure consistency in knife cuts, portioning, and plating for all sushi dishes.
• Follow strict food safety, sanitation, and HACCP guidelines for handling raw fish and seafood.
• Manage daily mise en place, including ingredient preparation, rice cooking, and sauce production.
• Maintain a clean, organized sushi station, ensuring efficiency during high-volume service.
• Monitor inventory levels of seafood, produce, and other sushi-related items to ensure freshness.
• Work collaboratively with the BOH and FOH teams to ensure a seamless dining experience.
• Engage with guests when appropriate, providing sushi recommendations and an interactive experience.
• Execute tasks assigned by Chefs and Kitchen Leadership with professionalism and enthusiasm.

Skills

Sushi preparation

Knife skills

Attention to detail

Team collaboration

Job description

Benihana - Santa Monica is seeking a Sushi Chef to craft high-quality sushi and sashimi with precision, creativity, and consistency. You will contribute to an exceptional dining experience by ensuring presentation, taste, and guest satisfaction.

Ideal candidates have prior sushi chef experience, expert knife skills, and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced setting while upholding food safety standards; weekend/night availability preferred.