Sakanaya is a fast-growing, modern Japanese dining brand founded in West Lafayette, Indiana. Our concept blends high-quality ingredients, creative sushi, and a warm, energetic dining experience designed for today’s guests.
At Sakanaya, we focus on
Premium sourcing (fresh fish, Wagyu, specialty ingredients)
Creative yet approachable sushi
High execution standards & clean operations
A culture of respect, teamwork, and continuous growth
We provide clear kitchen systems, strong training support, and a stable operation environment with very low turnover. Our sushi program combines both standardized staples and chef-driven creativity, offering room for talent to shine.
If you are passionate about sushi craftsmanship, teamwork, and growing with a brand that is expanding rapidly, Sakanaya is a place where your skills and ideas truly matter.
Head Sushi Chef's Responsibilities :
- Create and manage the sushi menu with various main ingredients and raw fish
- Prepare all types of sushi, including maki, nigiri and sashimi
- Assisting in ordering all products based on par systems and inventory management. Overseeing all ordering and inventory to ensure low food costs
- Assisting in the management including recruiting, hiring, scheduling, reviewing and terminating
- Managing staff schedules and ensure cuts are being made whenever possible
- Maintaining open lines of communication with all management and upper management to address any issues or concerns as they arise. Participating in Manager meetings to address these issues
- Overseeing quality control of all food production and execution
- Developing unique and visually appealing plating designs for new dishes
- Creating new menu items upon guest requests and seasonally. Recording the recipes of these menu items for consistent replication
- Ensuring all health and safety standards are upheld by enforcing high sanitation standards
- Addressing all kitchen-related problems and incidences in a timely and effective manner
- Daily maintenance of BOH systems - Continually follow and tweak all BOH systems from AM walkthrough, temp logs, line checks, prep lists, order guides, etc.
- Daily follow-through of BOH systems - It is mandatory that all BOH systems that are created are firmly used to the specification of the Executive Chef
- Completing and maintaining inventories with purchaser
- Knowledge and understanding of the Purchase and Loss Statement on a monthly basis
Requirements :
2 years of work experience as a Sushi Chef, preferably in a high-volume Japanese restaurantGood knowledge of various sushi types and sushi-rolling techniquesAbility to work both fast and accuratelyTeam spirit and coaching abilitiesAvailability to work during business hours, including holidays, weekends and eveningsFlexibility to take on various shiftsThis is an ideal position for someone who is dedicated to providing great service and is seeking to become a member of a hard-working and fun team!
Physical Requirements :
Lift and move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and / or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and / or move up to 50 poundsSafely and effectively use all necessary tools, equipment, & cleaning chemicalsStand and walk for an entire shift, including moving safely through all areas of the restaurant, which may include stairs, uneven and slick surfacesAbility to bear exposure to hot and cold environmentsIf you feel you meet the requirements, are a team player, experienced, passionate, and dedicated to your craft, we want to hear from you!