Culinary Director

Hospitality Confidential is excited to present a rare Culinary Director opportunity with a well-established, growth-focused Japanese restaurant group operating across Northern California. This leadership role is ideal for a strategic, hands-on culinary professional. Multi-unit experience is a huge plus. Must have a passion for Japanese cuisine and operational excellence.The Culinary Director will oversee and guide all culinary operations across the group's restaurants, with a strong emphasis on traditional Japanese techniques and authenticity. Responsibilities include menu development, recipe testing and costing, vendor relations, purchasing, and team development. This leader will ensure that all kitchens execute dishes to spec while maintaining the highest standards in product quality, consistency, and presentation.Were seeking a seasoned professional with experience opening new restaurants, managing multiple units, and sourcing top-tier ingredients while negotiating cost-effective pricing. This role requires weekly travel between Bay Area locations. The Culinary Director will collaborate closely with ownership and executive leadership to ensure operational excellence, profitability, and continued brand integrity.If youre a culinary leader with vision, precision, and the ability to inspire and scale teams, we'd love to connect.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic LeadershipDevelop and implement culinary strategies that reinforce the brand's reputation as a premier destination for Japanese fine diningDrive revenue growth, profitability, and opportunities for organizational expansionChampion innovation through seasonal menu development and trend integrationMenu Planning & Recipe DevelopmentCreate new menu items rooted in traditional Japanese cooking and seasonalityDevelop and cost recipes to align with target food costsTrain chef teams on execution and preparation to ensure consistency across all locationsKitchen Operations ManagementOversee daily kitchen operations to ensure timely service and food qualityMaintain equipment and manage inventory for efficient workflowsBuild kitchen schedules aligned with business volume and labor targetsEnsure compliance with local health, safety, and labor regulationsStaff Leadership & DevelopmentRecruit, train, and supervise chefs and cooks across multiple unitsFoster a collaborative culture through hands-on mentorship and growth opportunitiesProvide ongoing training in Japanese cooking techniquesQuality Control & Food SafetyMaintain the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and safetyEnforce sanitation protocols and conduct regular kitchen inspectionsBudgeting & Cost ManagementMonitor food and labor costs to achieve financial goalsControl inventory, reduce waste, and ensure efficient purchasing practicesSupplier Relations & ProcurementBuild and maintain relationships with vendors for premium ingredient sourcingNegotiate pricing and assess supplier reliability, quality, and valueEssential Skills & QualificationsCulinary Expertise: Deep knowledge of Japanese cuisine (sushi, robata, ramen, tempura)Leadership: Proven ability to lead chef teams across multiple kitchens with compassion and accountabilityOrganizational Strength: Strong planning and communication skills to manage multi-unit culinary operationsCreativity: Ability to craft innovative, authentic Japanese dishes that resonate with guests and drive profitabilityCommunication: Clear, collaborative communicator with strong interpersonal skillsExperience:Minimum 5 years in Japanese fine dining, including at least 3 years as an Executive ChefDemonstrated success in managing multiple restaurant kitchensAvailability: Willing and able to work nights, weekends, and holidays as neededTravel: Weekly travel required between Bay Area restaurants and Southern California developmentsPhysical Requirements: Ability to stand for 8-10 hours and lift up to 25 lbsCertifications: Valid California Food Handlers CertificationTechnology: Proficient in Word, Excel, POS systems, scheduling, and accounts payable platformCompliance: Strong understanding of California Labor Standards and RegulationsCompensation & Benefits: $125K - $150K Base salaryQuarterly, performance-based bonus of up to 15% of base salaryComprehensive health, dental, vision insurance coverage. 100% paid for employee, 50% paid for dependents.Mileage reimbursement2 weeks PTOPaid Sick LeaveCalSaversEmployee discounts and meal allowancesCell phone reimbursementPaid parkingOur client is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. They do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, gender (including gender identity or expression), pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual orientation, marital status, domestic violence, sexual violence or stalking victim status, ancestry, national origin, alienage or citizenship, age, disability, military or veteran status, genetic information or predisposing genetic characteristic, or other protected status.

Created: 2025-06-29