Required Years of Experience
3 years
Job Details
Onsen is a Japanese-inspired bathhouse and restaurant located in the Tenderloin. Guests come to enjoy our communal bath and then enjoy a set menu after their time in the bathhouse. We're looking for a talented chef to create seasonal, thoughtful menus paired with sake, tea, and beer. Our mission is to offer both locals and visitors a 3rd place where they can unwind and enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience.
The Role
We are seeking an Executive Chef to lead Onsen’s restaurant. This is a hands-on position for a chef who thrives in a small, focused kitchen environment, enjoys working with high-quality ingredients, and wants to shape the identity of a restaurant with Japanese inspiration but inherently Californian.
Responsibilities
- Design and execute seasonal menus that complement Onsen’s bathhouse experience
- Create menus for our private dining room events and dinners
- Lead, train, and inspire a small kitchen team
- Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations: ordering, prep, service, inventory, and sanitation
- Manage food cost, portioning, and waste
- Foster relationships with local purveyors and maintain high standards of sourcing
- Work closely with ownership and front-of-house to create a seamless guest experience
- Uphold health and safety standards
Qualifications
- Proven experience as an Executive Chef or strong Sous Chef ready for the next step
- Knowledge of Japanese flavors and techniques; interest in seasonal Californian and global ingredients
- Strong leadership and organizational skills; ability to manage a lean, efficient team
- Comfort with high-touch, intimate service
- Financial acumen: experience with budgeting, food cost analysis, and vendor management
- Commitment to sustainability, consistency, and hospitality
What We Offer
- Competitive salary
- Paid time off
- 4 day work schedule
- Creative autonomy in developing and rotating menus
- Opportunity to work with a unique concept blending communal bathing and dining
- Supportive ownership and a chance to build a lasting culinary program in San Francisco
Compensation Details
Compensation: Salary ($75,000.00 - $80,000.00)
Benefits & Perks: Health Insurance, Paid Time Off, Potential Bonuses, Dining Discounts, Wellness Program
Required Skills
Creativity in Menu Development
Ability to Work Under Pressure
Strong Communication Skills
Team Collaboration
Attention to Detail
Problem Solving Skills
Adaptability to Changing Environments
Customer Service Orientation
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Onsen is our twist on a traditional Japanese bathhouse, or Onsen ( hence the name ). Our space is a Restaurant, Six treatment rooms, a Sauna, a Steam Room and a Communal bath. You will be able to enjoy Acupuncture, Massage, lots of Teas and a full Menu of plant driven dishes. Onsen is built in a restored brick building that was formerly an auto body garage. We are located in the Tenderloin neighborhood, downtown San Francisco.
