Required Years of Experience
2 years
Job Details
Affiliated with STARR Restaurants, Makoto in Bal Harbour brings a modern twist to traditional Japanese dining. Located on the third floor of the luxurious Bal Harbour Shops, the restaurant features a bright, contemporary design by India Mahdavi that blends the elegance of a French brasserie with the energy of an American diner. Under the direction of Chef Makoto Okuwa, a master of Edomae-style sushi, the menu highlights the artistry, precision, and balance of modern Japanese cuisine.
We’re seeking a Sushi Sous Chef to join our talented culinary team. Someone with refined technical skill, deep respect for Japanese tradition, and an eye for modern presentation.
What We Offer:
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Competitive base salary
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Quarterly bonus program
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Paid vacation and sick time for full-time employees
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Medical, dental, and vision insurance
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Referral bonus programs
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Dining discounts at 25+ STARR Restaurants
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Opportunities for professional growth and development
Who You Are:
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2+ years of kitchen leadership experience as a Sous Chef or Sushi Chef in a high-volume, upscale restaurant
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Expert knife skills and strong understanding of sushi preparation, fish butchery, and rice techniques
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Proven ability to lead, train, and inspire a team in both speed and precision
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Deep knowledge of Japanese ingredients, flavor profiles, and traditional preparations
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Strong communication and organizational skills, with a calm, focused demeanor during service
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Culinary degree or formal training is a plus
Affiliated with STARR Restaurants, Makoto Bal Harbour is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.
Compensation Details
Compensation: Salary (Based on Experience)
Benefits & Perks: Health Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Paid Time Off, 401k, Commuter Benefits, Potential Bonuses, Dining Discounts, Wellness Program
Required Skills
Leadership
Team Management
Attention to Detail
Creativity in Presentation
Time Management
Adaptability in a Fast Paced Environment
Cultural Appreciation for Japanese Cuisine
Mentorship
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Part of STARR Restaurants
With over twenty years of experience, Chef Makoto Okuwa has developed his own take on Japanese cuisine, where traditional Edomae-Sushi meets innovative flair. Chef Makoto’s introduction to the intricacies of Japanese cooking, especially sushi, began in his hometown of Nagoya, Japan. At the age of 15, Makoto began an apprenticeship with Sushi Master Makoto Kumazaki; his study continued under the tutelage of legendary Sushi Master Chef Shinichi Takegasa. After ten years of training in Japan, Makoto moved to Washington, D.C. where he began to work closely with Iron Chef Morimoto and was soon asked to assume the Head Sushi Chef role at Morimoto New York and Morimoto Philadelphia. In 2005, he was recognized by the James Beard Foundation for outstanding contribution.
In 2007, Makoto received a New York Rising Star Chef award by StarChef.com. Following these accolades, he also made several appearances on the Food Network’s original “Iron Chef America” alongside his mentor Iron Chef Morimoto. In 2007, Makoto fulfilled a lifelong dream by opening up his own restaurant, Sashi Sushi + Sake Lounge in Manhattan Beach, California, where he remains a partner. Sashi quickly received top praise from Los Angeles Magazine and the L.A. Times. In 2009, Makoto was asked to appear on Iron Chef America as a competitor, allowing him to showcase his extraordinary culinary expertise.
At his new namesake restaurant in Bal Harbor, Makoto continues to evolve his style of crafting playful, exquisitely presented dishes which pay tribute to Japanese tradition. “I have a true respect for keeping with Japanese tradition, but also feel it’s important to add my own variation in order to appeal to a wide array of palates,” says Makoto. In his menu creations, he continues to draw inspiration from his colleagues, mentors, and Bal Harbor’s well-traveled, sophisticated clientele, in addition to the restaurant’s beautiful ambiance.
