Head Chef

Warm & Friendly Japanese Izakaya — Sankyu Sushi

We are seeking an experienced and reliable Kitchen Chef / Sushi Chef to join our culinary team at a warm, friendly Japanese Izakaya in Mount Prospect.

The ideal candidate has a strong foundation in sushi preparation, Japanese cuisine, knife skills, general cooking techniques, cleanliness, and teamwork. This role is a great fit for someone who enjoys working in a lively restaurant environment, takes pride in consistent food quality, and understands the importance of hospitality.

The Kitchen Chef / Sushi Chef will help prepare and present high-quality sushi, sashimi, rolls, and cooked Japanese dishes while supporting smooth daily kitchen operations.

• Prepare sushi, sashimi, nigiri, maki, rolls, and other Japanese dishes according to restaurant standards.

• Assist with cooked menu items, including hot kitchen preparation, sauces, garnishes, frying, grilling, sautéing, plating, and prep work.

• Handle, break down, portion, and store fish with care, proper technique, and attention to freshness.

• Maintain the quality, consistency, and presentation of all ingredients, including fish, rice, vegetables, proteins, and garnishes.

• Prepare and season sushi rice consistently according to restaurant standards.

• Keep the sushi station, prep areas, and kitchen clean, organized, and properly stocked throughout service.

• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and health department guidelines.

• Work closely with the chef, management, and kitchen team to ensure smooth and timely service.

• Assist with daily prep, inventory, receiving, cleaning, and proper storage of ingredients.

• Support specials, seasonal dishes, and menu updates when needed.

• Communicate professionally with team members and guests when working near the sushi counter or open kitchen.

• Follow direction from the chef and management while helping create a positive team environment.

• Assist with any reasonable tasks needed to support the restaurant.

• Maintain consistency, attention to detail, and composure during busy service.

• Prior experience as a Sushi Chef, Kitchen Chef, or Japanese restaurant cook preferred.

• Strong knife skills and knowledge of sushi, sashimi, nigiri, maki, and Japanese preparation techniques.

• General cooking ability, including prep, frying, grilling, sautéing, sauce preparation, and plating.

• Understanding of fish quality, proper handling, storage, breakdown, and portioning.

• Ability to prepare and season sushi rice consistently.

• High standards for cleanliness, organization, and food safety.

• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced restaurant environment.

• Strong communication skills and ability to work well with the culinary team.

• Professional attitude, reliability, flexibility, and willingness to follow direction.

• Must be willing to support the team and complete assigned tasks as needed.

• Experience with izakaya-style food, Japanese small plates, or counter service is a plus.

• Leadership experience in a kitchen environment is a plus.

The ideal candidate is passionate about Japanese cuisine, takes pride in their work, and enjoys being part of a friendly, team-focused restaurant.

We are looking for someone who values consistency, cleanliness, respect for ingredients, teamwork, hospitality, and a positive attitude.

This position is best suited for someone who is skilled, humble, reliable, and willing to do what is needed to help the restaurant run smoothly.

Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply with a resume and a brief summary of their sushi, Japanese cuisine, and kitchen experience.