Sous Chef

Umami Riot was born from a simple idea: pair joyful hospitality with uncompromising craftsmanship. Founded by Chef Tim Cushman and sake expert Nancy Cushman, our restaurants celebrate bold flavor, precision, and a deep respect for Japanese foodways – translated through a distinctly Boston lens. At Umami Riot, we’re not here to follow the rules of hospitality, we’re here to rewrite them – with heart, craft and fearless creativity.

Hojoko is where it all comes to life. A Japanese-inspired tavern fueled by loud music, high energy, and seriously good food. It’s where high-end technique meets low-key fun—wagyu cheeseburgers, spicy ramen, sake bombs—executed with the same precision and care as a fine dining kitchen. We take flavor seriously…everything else, not so much.

We’re looking for a Sous Chef who leads from the line, sharpens the team, and keeps the kitchen firing on all cylinders.

THE GIG (AKA WHAT YOU’LL ACTUALLY BE DOING)

• Right hand to the Executive Chef, trusted with real authority and held accountable for execution, culture, and consistency 
• Leadership from the line — balancing craft and command, precision and pressure, and setting the standard through action 
• Full control of daily culinary operations, including hiring, training, scheduling, systems, and service execution 
• Recipes, knife skills, prep standards, and plating enforced with discipline, driving consistency through tight systems and procedures 
• Strategic partnership with the Executive Chef on ordering, inventory, labor, and P&L awareness, managing supplies with intent and minimizing waste 
• Culture built by example — clean, focused, disciplined, and confident — leading services, private events, reporting, and management shifts, including nights, weekends, and moments that actually matter

THIS ROLE IS A GREAT FIT IF…

• You lead with calm authority and aren’t afraid to get your hands dirty 
• You care deeply about food, people, and doing things the right way 
• You thrive in high-volume, high-expectation kitchens 
• You enjoy teaching, coaching, and building the next generation of cooks 
• You think beyond the plate — labor, systems, costs, and growth matter to you 
• You bring discipline, curiosity, and pride to everything you touch

LET’S SET EXPECTATIONS (IN A GOOD WAY)

This is a fast-paced kitchen fueled by movement, heat, music, and momentum, where you’re on your feet, working with knives, fire, and focus throughout each shift.

Yes — this is a hands-on role. You’ll be active for long shifts, lifting up to 50 lbs., bending, reaching, and moving easily through tight spaces. A disciplined commitment to sanitation, safety, and cleanliness is part of the craft here, and we’re committed to providing reasonable accommodations to support individuals in performing the essential functions of the role.

WHY PEOPLE STICK AROUND

• Competitive pay - because your work matters
• Dining discounts across all Umami Riot locations
• Growth that’s real (not just talked about)
• A team culture rooted in respect, creativity, and heart

Annual Pay Range: $55,000 - $75,000 based on experience

EOE