What Restaurants Offered Japanese Chefs Abroad: Recent Positions and Packages by Country (2026)

Since January 2025, restaurants around the world have opened positions for Japanese chefs through Washoku Agent. This page shows them country by country as the restaurants posted them: role, concept, city, pay and what else the package included, hours, and what the restaurant asked for. Restaurant names are not shown. It is written for owners who are planning a hire and want to see what others offered before they set their own package.

How to read these postings
Each posting shows what the restaurant offered and asked for at the time of posting, as written in the posting: base pay in local currency with an approximate yearly figure in yen, what else the package included, the hours, and the requirements. Filled means the position was filled through Washoku Agent. Closed means the restaurant stopped the search. Restaurant names are not shown; we share them with the chefs we introduce. Chefs looking for a position: our listings for candidates are in Japanese at washoku-agent.com/jobs.

Malaysia

Job No. MY261002 · posted 2026-11-03
Sushi Head Chef
Open

Head chef candidate for a new Japanese-owned sushi omakase restaurant in a quiet area of Kuala Lumpur, opening January 2027; 20-seat counter and 8-seat private room.

PositionHead chef
ConceptOmakase sushi
LocationKuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Base pay offeredRM12,000 a month / about JPY 5.4 million a year
Also in the package
  • Work visa: company supports the application
  • Flights: paid by the company
  • Housing: company helps find a flat, allowance set on experience
Hours and days offAbout 10:30 to 23:30 on prep days, lunch and dinner with a break, 1 day off a week
What the restaurant asked for
  • 5 years or more of experience
  • Has worked at a sushi omakase restaurant
  • Management experience in sushi omakase
  • Counter sushi and guest service
  • Can manage and train staff
  • Head chef experience welcome, second chefs also considered
  • Strong communicator who builds good relationships
  • Flexible and open to management direction
  • English for the kitchen is enough
  • Takes initiative
StartAs soon as possible
Job No. MY260801 · posted 2026-08-19
Izakaya Head Chef & Store Manager
Open

Store manager and head chef for an existing izakaya of about 40 to 60 seats in Kuala Lumpur, part of a multi-outlet group; spend from RM 100 per guest.

PositionHead chef
ConceptIzakaya
LocationKuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Base pay offeredRM13,000 a month / about JPY 6.6 million a year
Also in the package
  • Bonus: one month of pay after the first year, based on performance
  • Work visa: arranged and paid by the company, family visa costs self-paid
  • Home leave flight allowance from year 2: MYR 3,000, up to MYR 5,000 for regional cities
  • Medical: hospitalisation insurance, cap MYR 1,200
  • Paid leave: 14 days a year
  • Housing allowance: none
  • Pay rises: based on outlets managed as the group grows
Hours and days off11:30 to 23:30, about 60 hours a week, 1 day off a week
What the restaurant asked for
  • 10 years or more of Japanese cooking, izakaya preferred
  • Has run a 60 to 100 seat izakaya kitchen as head chef
  • English for smooth work with staff
  • Passion, flexibility, creativity and teamwork
  • Cooks and runs to cost and yield
  • Comfortable serving guests out front
  • Overseas work experience welcome
StartAs soon as possible, once the visa is issued
Job No. MY260802 · posted 2026-08-10
Head Sushi Chef (Omakase, New Opening)
Open

Head sushi chef for a new sushi omakase restaurant in central Kuala Lumpur run by a large local group; 36 seats with a 12-seat counter, spend RM 250 to 500.

PositionHead chef
ConceptSushi
LocationKuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Base pay offeredRM15,000 a month / about JPY 7.0 million a year
Also in the package
  • Housing: support, to be discussed
  • Flights: on arrival provided
  • Home flight: once a year
  • Work permit: support
  • Medical insurance: after hiring
  • Tips: shared
Hours and days off10 to 12 hours a day, 4 days off a month, Sundays off
What the restaurant asked for
  • Modern, fusion and traditional sushi experience
  • Sushi counter guest service
  • Team leadership experience
  • Basic English with management and local staff
  • Outgoing and enjoys talking with guests
  • Multinational team management welcome
  • Interest in fusion cuisine welcome
StartAs soon as possible

See all positions in Malaysia, with the hiring guide →

The United States

posted 2025-12-22
Head Chef (Shabu-Shabu Kaiseki)
Filled through Washoku Agent

Head chef for a long-established shabu-shabu kaiseki restaurant in Los Angeles with 37 seats; existing restaurant. Counter cooking, menus, staff training, hygiene and purchasing.

PositionHead chef
ConceptKaiseki
LocationLos Angeles, the United States
Base pay offeredUS$6,000 to 9,000 a month
Also in the package
  • Tips: none
  • Bonus: year-end bonus based on results
  • Pay review: once a year in line with prices
  • Housing: lodging on arrival paid by the company, search support, loan for first rent and deposit
  • Flights: one way on relocation
  • Work visa: work permit support
  • Insurance: workers' compensation
  • Staff meals: provided
Hours and days off13:00 to 22:00 with a 1 hour break, 1 day off a week; open 17:00 to 22:00
What the restaurant asked for
  • 5 years or more as head chef at a kaiseki or kappo restaurant
  • Works well with a mixed team
  • English not required, but willing to learn it
  • Multinational team management experience welcome
StartAs early as possible
Job No. US250201 · posted 2025-02-26
Junior chef, Sushi
Closed

Assistant sushi chef at a popular sushi dining restaurant in New Jersey near New York, in its third year and Japanese-owned; counter sushi, service, prep and purchasing.

PositionJunior chef
ConceptSushi
LocationNew Jersey, the United States
Base pay offeredGross pay US$60,000 to US$80,000
Also in the package
  • Work visa: full support
  • Housing: company pays 50 percent of rent
  • Flights and insurance: to be discussed
Hours and days offAbout 9:00 to 23:00 with breaks, 1 day off a week; lunch and dinner service
What the restaurant asked for
  • Counter sushi experience at a mid to upper-end sushi restaurant
  • Passion for new things and drive to improve
  • Wants to settle long term in the United States
  • Everyday English preferred
  • US work visa and overseas experience welcome
StartNegotiable
Job No. US250102 · posted 2025-01-22
Head chef, Japanese restaurant
Closed

Head chef for a Japanese fine dining restaurant in Chicago, open 15 years, mixing Japanese and American styles; replaces the previous head chef and leads sushi, robata and kitchen.

PositionHead chef
ConceptJapanese restaurant
LocationChicago, the United States
Base pay offeredUp to US$5,500 a month, negotiable on experience
Also in the package
  • Commission bonus based on sales
  • Flights: paid on relocation
  • Medical insurance: company subsidy, not for those already holding US work rights
  • Housing: search support, rent paid by the chef
  • Work visa: application support
  • Annual home flight: starts after one year
Hours and days off10 hours a day with a 1 hour break, 1 day off a week; lunch and dinner
What the restaurant asked for
  • 10 years or more at a sushi counter, including guest service
  • Creates new menus and puts them into operation
  • Finds and fixes problems in menus and operations
  • English needed to discuss menus and policy with management
  • Energetic and ambitious
  • Robata, wagyu or overseas fine dining head chef experience welcome
StartTo be discussed

See all positions in the United States, with the hiring guide →

Fiji

Job No. FJ250601 · posted 2025-06-11
Head Chef
Filled through Washoku Agent

Head chef for a new Japanese fine dining restaurant in Fiji, launched by a local hospitality group running for over 20 years; leads the kitchen and reports to the owner chef.

PositionHead chef
ConceptJapanese cuisine
LocationFiji
Base pay offeredUS$4,000 to 4,500 a month
Also in the package
  • Housing: provided, rent paid by the company
  • Medical insurance: company enrolls you
  • Work permit: support, about 3 to 6 months
  • Flights at start and one home trip a year: details at interview
  • Company car and fuel: fully paid
Hours and days off9 hours a day with a break, 4 days off a month
What the restaurant asked for
  • Can start from October 2025
  • Broad Japanese cuisine: teppanyaki, yakitori, sushi, sashimi, izakaya
  • Leadership, energy, drive and creativity
  • Restaurant opening experience
  • Conversational English for local staff and management
StartSeptember to October 2025
Job No. FJ250502 · posted 2025-05-16
Chef, Teppanyaki
Closed

Japanese cook focused on yakitori for a new teppanyaki and Japanese restaurant in Fiji, launched by a long-running local group; works with the head chef.

PositionChef
ConceptTeppanyaki
LocationFiji
Base pay offeredMonthly pay up to USD 3,500 take-home after tax, paid in local currency
Also in the package
  • Housing: provided, rent paid by the company
  • Medical insurance: company enrolls you
  • Work permit: support, about 3 to 6 months
  • Flights at start and one home trip a year: details at interview
  • Company car and fuel: fully paid
Hours and days off9 hours a day with a break, 4 days off a month
What the restaurant asked for
  • Can start from October 2025
  • Yakitori cooking experience, tempura a plus
  • Cheerful, motivated and creative
  • Conversational English for local staff and management
StartOctober 2025
Job No. FJ250501 · posted 2025-05-16
Head chef, Teppanyaki
Closed

Teppanyaki head chef for a new teppanyaki and Japanese restaurant in Fiji, launched by a long-running local group; leads the kitchen and cooks in front of guests.

PositionHead chef
ConceptTeppanyaki
LocationFiji
Base pay offeredMonthly pay USD 4,000 to 4,500 take-home after tax, paid in local currency
Also in the package
  • Housing: provided, rent paid by the company
  • Medical insurance: company enrolls you
  • Work permit: support, about 3 to 6 months
  • Flights at start and one home trip a year: details at interview
  • Company car and fuel: fully paid
Hours and days off9 hours a day with a break, 4 days off a month
What the restaurant asked for
  • Can start from October 2025
  • Hands-on teppanyaki experience, sushi and sashimi a plus
  • Leadership, energy, drive and creativity
  • Conversational English for local staff and management
StartOctober 2025

France

Job No. FR260801 · posted 2026-08-18
Head Chef (Japanese-Italian Pizza, New Opening)
Open

Head chef for a new Japanese and Italian pizza restaurant in Paris, about 40 seats, opening early 2027; R&D role leading menu and dough development.

PositionHead chef
ConceptJapanese-Italian pizza restaurant
LocationFrance
Base pay offeredEUR 2,300 to 3,000 a month / about JPY 6.6 million a year
Also in the package
  • Paid in euros
  • Work permit: support
  • Medical insurance: enrolled
  • Flights: round trip on arrival
  • Home flight: round trip once a year
  • Paid leave: 5 weeks a year
  • Housing: at own cost
Hours and days off8 hours a day, 8 days off a month, Sundays and Mondays
What the restaurant asked for
  • Pizza dough R&D experience
  • Pizza recipe development and original product design
  • Basic English with guests, owner and colleagues
  • Creative ideas for Japanese and Italian style pizza welcome
StartAround November to December 2026
Job No. FR260501 · posted 2026-05-12
Sushi Head Chef (Edomae Omakase)
Filled through Washoku Agent

Head chef for a new Edomae omakase sushi restaurant in Paris opening in autumn 2026; 10 counter and 6 table seats; owner also runs a French restaurant in Paris.

PositionHead chef
ConceptSushi
LocationParis, France
Base pay offeredEUR 4,500 to 6,000 a month
Also in the package
  • Work visa: support
  • Housing: company pays 50% of rent, with a cap
  • Medical insurance: support
  • Flights: on arrival provided
  • Paid leave: under French labour law
Hours and days off10 to 12 hours a day, 2 days off a week
What the restaurant asked for
  • 5 years or more as head chef of authentic omakase sushi
  • Solid Edomae sushi or traditional Japanese skills
  • Driven and keen on an overseas challenge
  • Team player with strong communication
  • Basic English or French
  • Fine dining or high-end Japanese experience welcome
  • Overseas work experience welcome
  • Care for ingredient quality and origin welcome
posted 2026-01-07
Head Chef (Japanese-Italian Fusion)
Closed

Replacement head chef for a Japanese and Italian fusion fine dining restaurant in Paris opened in 2024; 14 counter seats, spend about EUR 90 per guest.

PositionHead chef
ConceptJapanese cuisine
LocationParis, France
Base pay offeredEUR 3,200 to 3,500 a month
Also in the package
  • Paid in euros
  • Work visa: support
  • Housing: flat behind the restaurant, rent EUR 700 a month paid by the chef
  • Medical insurance: EUR 60 a month, employer pays half
  • Flights: on arrival provided
  • Tips: shared among staff, usually EUR 600 to 900 a month
  • Paid leave: 5 weeks a year
Hours and days off10 to 12 hours a day, 8 days off a month, Sundays and Mondays
What the restaurant asked for
  • Broad Japanese cooking experience
  • Italian cooking skills required
  • English for guests, owner and colleagues
  • Enjoys talking with guests
  • Creative in menu development
  • Fine dining experience welcome
  • Overseas work experience welcome
  • Conversational French welcome
StartSpring 2026, March to May

See the France page, with the hiring guide →

Russia

Job No. RU251001 · posted 2025-10-16
Sous Chef (French × Japanese Fusion)
Open

New French and Japanese fusion fine dining restaurant in Moscow for VIP guests, hiring three roles: head chef for fusion and teppanyaki, pastry chef, and omakase chef.

PositionHead chef
ConceptFrench-Japanese fusion
LocationRussia
Base pay offeredMonthly pay US$4,000 to 6,000 take-home, based on experience and skill / about JPY 7.2 million a year
Also in the package
  • Housing: shared house with a private room
  • Flights: one round trip between Russia and Japan a year
  • Meals: provided during work
  • Work visa: full support
  • Contract: 2 years, renewable
Hours and days offAbout 12 hours a day on shifts, 1 day off a week
What the restaurant asked for
  • Head chef: 10 years or more of high-end French or Italian, teppanyaki menus, P&L and staff management
  • Head chef: basic Japanese cooking knowledge
  • Pastry chef: 5 years or more making desserts, mainly Western, with Japanese touches
  • Omakase chef: 10 years or more of high-end omakase sushi or kappo, comfortable talking with guests
  • All roles: basic English
  • All roles: at least one past employer for about 5 years
  • Russian and VIP service experience welcome
Job No. RU250301 · posted 2025-04-02
Sous chef, High-end omakase kappo
Open

Sous chef at a high-end omakase kappo restaurant in central Moscow, co-run by a Japanese owner-chef; counter cooking, sushi, prep, purchasing, and covering for the head chef.

PositionSous chef
ConceptHigh-end omakase kappo
LocationRussia
Base pay offeredMonthly pay from US$4,000 take-home, after tax / about JPY 7.2 million a year
Also in the package
  • Pay raises: yes
  • Bonus when daily sales beat the target
  • Work visa: full support
  • Housing: provided
  • Medical allowance: provided
  • Flights: paid on arrival
  • Paid leave: 14 days
  • No overtime pay for late VIP bookings
Hours and days offAbout 12:00 to 23:00 with breaks, until about 2:00 for VIP bookings, 1 day off a week
What the restaurant asked for
  • 10 years or more of Japanese cooking based on kaiseki or high-end kappo
  • Counter cooking and guest service experience
  • Sushi at counter level, full Edomae skills not required
  • Management experience at a restaurant of similar size
  • Able to relocate alone
  • English not required
  • Head chef experience in Japan and flexibility with guest requests welcome
StartNegotiable
Job No. RU250201 · posted 2025-02-25
Sous chef, Japanese cuisine
Closed

Sous chef for a new high-end Japanese restaurant in Moscow serving omakase sushi and kaiseki, funded by a large Russian restaurant group; helps build menus, concept and kitchen.

PositionSous chef
ConceptJapanese cuisine
LocationMoscow, Russia
Base pay offeredMonthly pay US$3,000 take-home, after tax, paid in RUB
Also in the package
  • Work visa: obtained by the company
  • Housing: provided, rent paid by the company
  • Medical insurance: provided at company cost
  • Flights at start: discussed during selection
  • Home flight: one round trip every 6 months
  • Paid leave: 30 days
Hours and days off13:30 to 21:30, 8 hours a day, 45 hours a week, 2 days off a week
What the restaurant asked for
  • 5 years or more of omakase sushi or kaiseki work overseas
  • English to direct staff
  • Creative menu development with the head chef
  • Hands-on use of many kinds of kitchen equipment
  • Strong leadership, stays calm while multitasking
StartNegotiable

The Netherlands

Job No. NL260501 · posted 2026-08-14
Head Sushi Chef (Omakase, New Concept)
Open

Head chef for a new-concept sushi omakase restaurant of 12 to 14 seats in Amsterdam, run by a company that also operates a cafe and a cocktail bar izakaya.

PositionHead chef
ConceptOmakase sushi
LocationThe Netherlands
Base pay offeredEUR 5,500 to 6,000 a month / about JPY 13.0 million a year
Also in the package
  • Housing: provided
  • Medical insurance: not provided, chef arranges own cover
Hours and days off8 to 9 hours a day with breaks, 5 days a week, 8 days off a month
What the restaurant asked for
  • 10 years or more of omakase sushi experience
  • Everyday English or better, to talk with management and guests
  • Can develop and run an omakase menu overseas
  • Simple, traditional sushi skills
  • Keen to learn and adapt
  • Can manage the restaurant and staff
Job No. NL250502 · posted 2025-05-29
Sushi Chef (Omakase)
Closed

Sushi chef with head chef duties at an omakase sushi restaurant in Amsterdam: menu development, building operations, keeping quality, cooking and staff training.

PositionJunior chef
ConceptSushi
LocationAmsterdam, the Netherlands
Base pay offeredEUR 4,500 a month
Also in the package
  • Profit sharing based on the person, experience and skill
  • Housing: temporary housing for the first month, then search support with rent paid by the chef
  • Flights: paid at start
  • Medical insurance: not provided, chef buys private cover
Hours and days off8 to 9 hours a day with breaks, 8 days off a month
What the restaurant asked for
  • 3 years or more of sushi experience
  • Everyday English or better, to talk with management and guests
  • Simple, traditional sushi skills
  • Keen to learn and adapt
StartTo be discussed
Job No. NL250501 · posted 2025-05-29
Head chef, Izakaya
Closed

Head chef for a new izakaya opening in Amsterdam: menu development, building kitchen operations, keeping quality, cooking and staff training.

PositionHead chef
ConceptIzakaya
LocationAmsterdam, the Netherlands
Base pay offeredEUR 4,500 a month
Also in the package
  • Profit sharing based on the person, experience and skill
  • Housing: temporary housing for the first month, then search support with rent paid by the chef
  • Flights: paid at start
  • Medical insurance: not provided, chef buys own cover
Hours and days off8 to 9 hours a day with breaks, 8 days off a month
What the restaurant asked for
  • 10 years or more in izakaya
  • Everyday English or better, to talk with management and guests
  • Can develop izakaya menus and run them overseas
  • Keen to learn and adapt
  • Broad knowledge of sake
StartNegotiable

See the the Netherlands page, with the hiring guide →

Australia

Job No. AU250401 · posted 2025-04-11
Sushi Sous Chef (Omakase)
Open

Sushi sous chef for a newly opened high-end sushi omakase restaurant in central Sydney, working with a Japanese head chef; operator runs several restaurants.

PositionSous chef
ConceptOmakase sushi
LocationAustralia
Base pay offeredPay AUD 70,000 to 80,000 a year before tax / about JPY 7.0 million a year
Also in the package
  • Tips: yes
  • Work visa: support, application costs shared with the company
Hours and days off38 hours a week, 2 days off a week
What the restaurant asked for
  • English at about IELTS 5.5 to 6, able to talk with owner, guests and staff
  • 5 years or more of sushi omakase cooking
  • Deep knowledge and experience of high-end sushi
  • Michelin chefs welcome
StartOnce the work visa is issued
Job No. AU250101 · posted 2025-01-09
Head chef, Omakase sushi
Open

Head chef for a high-end sushi omakase restaurant in central Sydney; operator runs several restaurants; omakase, quality, menu work with owners, staff training.

PositionHead chef
ConceptOmakase sushi
LocationAustralia
Base pay offeredA$120,000 a year / about JPY 11.0 million a year
Also in the package
  • Tips: yes
  • Work visa: support
  • Flights: one way on arrival, negotiable
  • Home flight: none
  • Housing: not provided
  • Medical insurance: not provided
Hours and days off38 hours a week, 2 days off a week
What the restaurant asked for
  • Has worked as the top chef of a restaurant
  • Overseas work experience
  • English required, about IELTS 5.5 to 6
  • 5 to 10 years or more of sushi omakase cooking
  • Deep knowledge and experience of high-end sushi
  • Michelin chefs welcome
  • Can build menus with the owner
  • Passionate and flexible
  • Can lead a talented team
StartOnce the work visa is issued

New Zealand

Job No. NZ260301 · posted 2026-03-13
Head Sushi Chef (Edomae Omakase)
Open

Head sushi chef for a new Edomae omakase restaurant in Auckland with 12 seats at a U-shaped counter, opening June to July 2026; leads the counter, menus and kitchen team.

PositionHead chef
ConceptSushi
LocationNew Zealand
Base pay offeredAnnual salary NZD 100,000 gross / about JPY 9.3 million a year
Also in the package
  • Work visa: company supports the work permit
  • Medical and accident insurance: provided
  • Flights: paid by the company on relocation
  • Housing: not provided, search support given, rent paid by the chef
  • Staff meals: provided
Hours and days off7 hours a day, 1 day off a week
What the restaurant asked for
  • Experience as head sushi chef or omakase chef preferred
  • Fine dining or Michelin-level experience preferred
  • Basic English, required because management does not speak Japanese
  • High professional quality standards
  • Can lead and motivate a team
  • Engages well with guests at the counter
StartJune to July 2026, in time for the opening
Job No. NZ260201 · posted 2026-02-20
Junior Sushi Chef
Open

Junior sushi chef under a Japanese head sushi chef at a Japanese home-style restaurant in Rotorua, open since 2001, about 55 seats including a 26-seat sushi counter.

PositionJunior chef
ConceptSushi
LocationRotorua, New Zealand
Base pay offeredMonthly pay NZD 4,800 gross (NZD 30 an hour), paid in NZD / about JPY 5.5 million a year
Also in the package
  • Flights: paid on relocation
  • Work visa: work permit support
  • Medical insurance: New Zealand health insurance
  • Staff meals: provided
  • Paid leave: 4 weeks a year
  • Housing: search support, rent paid by the chef
Hours and days off40 hours a week, 1 to 2 days off a week, closed on Mondays
What the restaurant asked for
  • 3 years or more as a junior sushi chef
  • Basic sushi knowledge and skills
  • Values teamwork and follows instructions accurately
  • Keen to learn under the head chef
  • Basic English, sushi restaurant and overseas experience welcome
StartAs early as possible

Singapore

Job No. SG260801 · posted 2026-08-13
Head Barista / Bartender (Coffee Omakase, New Opening)
Open

Head barista and bartender for a new coffee omakase and coffee flight concept in Singapore from a Japanese coffee brand, 7 seats, opening November 2026; leads service and team.

PositionHead chef
ConceptCafe
LocationSingapore
Base pay offeredS$5,200 a month / about JPY 8.2 million a year
Also in the package
  • Housing allowance: SGD 1,200 a month, paid separately
  • Work visa: S Pass arranged by the company
  • Medical insurance: provided
  • Flights on arrival: paid by the employee, then reimbursed
  • After 2 years: one-way flight to Japan and 5 days paid home leave
  • Annual leave 15 days, sick leave 14 days, hospital leave 60 days including sick leave
  • Incentive scheme: yes
Hours and days off10 hours a day, 4 days off a month
What the restaurant asked for
  • Basic English to work with management and explain the menu
  • Positive, flexible, creative team player
  • Can propose drinks in an omakase or flight style
  • Coffee, alcohol, cafe or bar experience preferred
  • Barista or bartender experience welcome
  • Pre-opening experience a plus
StartLate September to early October 2026
Job No. SG250601 · posted 2025-06-06
Pastry Chef / Sous Chef (Singapore Café)
Open

Sous pastry chef at a popular cafe run by a hospitality group with several restaurants in Singapore; pastry, bakery and cooking for cafe and takeaway, supporting the head chef.

PositionSous chef
ConceptCafe
LocationSingapore
Base pay offeredS$6,800 a month / about JPY 9.1 million a year
Also in the package
  • Work visa: arranged and paid by the company
  • Medical insurance: company plan provided
  • Flights: paid on relocation
  • Housing allowance: to be discussed
  • Paid leave: provided
Hours and days off10:00 to 21:00 with breaks, 2 days off a week
What the restaurant asked for
  • 8 years or more of experience
  • Everyday English or better, for talking with guests
  • Holds a culinary licence
StartAs soon as the work visa is issued

Thailand

Job No. TH250601 · posted 2025-06-20
Head chef, Clay-pot rice
Closed

Head chef for a new donabe clay pot specialty restaurant in Bangkok, backed by a company linked to a long-established Thai seasoning maker; covers menus, costs, staff and quality.

PositionHead chef
ConceptClay-pot rice
LocationBangkok, Thailand
Base pay offeredPay: several pay structures, explained separately, paid in THB
Also in the package
  • Bonus: profit sharing
  • Housing allowance: part of rent, depending on candidate
  • Transport: paid up to a cap
  • Medical insurance: provided
  • Work permit: support given
  • Flights on arrival and return: depending on candidate
  • Social security: statutory cover
  • Annual leave: as set by Thai labour law
Hours and days off8 hours a day, 4 days off a month
What the restaurant asked for
  • Deep knowledge of donabe and Japanese cuisine
  • Ingredient and cost control
  • Cooking and serving in front of guests
  • Strong communicator, open to new things
  • Creative donabe menus and sourcing
  • Staff coaching and kitchen management
  • Works closely with the owner
StartAs soon as possible
Job No. TH250501 · posted 2025-05-29
Head Chef Candidate
Open

Head chef candidate for the Bangkok flagship of a Japanese company with 10 kaiseki restaurants in Japan; a standalone Japanese house in Sukhumvit, open 10 years. Training in Japan first.

PositionHead chef
ConceptKaiseki
LocationThailand
Base pay offeredJPY 400,000 to 500,000 a month / about JPY 8.0 million a year
Also in the package
  • Bonus: twice a year
  • Pay raises: yes
  • Work visa: company support
  • Transport: fully paid
  • Housing allowance: yes
  • Flights: one round trip to Japan a year
  • Family allowance: JPY 7,000 for a spouse, JPY 5,000 for a child
  • Annual health check, uniform, meal subsidy, staff discount
  • Retirement allowance: yes
  • Paid leave: 6 days after one year
Hours and days off10:00 to 23:00, 10 working hours, 6 days off a month, 78 or more a year
What the restaurant asked for
  • 10 years or more of high-end Japanese cooking
  • Experience as head chef or sous chef
  • Enjoys cooking and talking in front of guests
  • Bright communicator inside and outside the team
  • 5 years or more overseas work welcome
  • Everyday English welcome, not required
StartTo be discussed

Vietnam

Job No. VN250901 · posted 2025-09-27
Omakase Head Chef
Filled through Washoku Agent

Head chef for a new-style omakase restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City; the chef sets the concept, which need not be sushi, and runs the menu and restaurant from day one.

PositionHead chef
ConceptJapanese restaurant
LocationHo Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Base pay offeredPay and benefits: negotiable based on ability and the candidate's wishes
Hours and days off8 to 10 hours a day, 4 days off a month
What the restaurant asked for
  • Omakase cooking experience and head chef ability
  • Strong communication with owner, staff and guests
  • Original ideas and passion to entertain guests
  • Can promote the restaurant on social media
  • Keen to stay long term in Vietnam
  • English and Vietnamese not required
StartAs soon as possible
Job No. VN250201 · posted 2025-02-06
Head chef, Sushi
Closed

Second chef at an established high-end omakase sushi restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City under a Japanese head chef, run by a joint local and Japanese company; may hire as head chef.

PositionHead chef
ConceptSushi
LocationHo Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Base pay offeredPay: matched to the candidate's current or last salary, paid in local currency
Also in the package
  • Work visa: process and cost covered by the company
  • Housing allowance: may be considered
  • Flights: first trip paid by the company
  • Paid leave plus a long break during Tet
Hours and days off15:00 to 23:00 with breaks, 1 day off a week; dinner service only
What the restaurant asked for
  • 5 years or more in sushi, Japanese cuisine experience preferred
  • Omakase sushi menu development welcome
  • English not required, but ready to talk with guests
  • Solid Japanese technique, flexible to local demand
  • Keeps teamwork and lifts the whole restaurant
StartAs soon as the work visa is issued

The UAE

Job No. AE260101 · posted 2025-05-28
Japanese Fine Dining
Open

Sushi chef for an established Japanese fine dining restaurant in Dubai led by a Japanese head chef; counter sushi, omakase and a la carte.

PositionJunior chef
ConceptSushi
LocationThe UAE
Base pay offeredAED 12,000 to 14,000 a month / about JPY 6.6 million a year
Also in the package
  • No income tax or resident tax in Dubai
  • Work visa: company supports the application
  • Flights: on arrival paid by the company
  • Housing: provided by the company
  • Medical insurance: company enrolls you
  • Paid leave: up to 40 days
Hours and days off12:00 to 24:00 with a 3-hour break after lunch, lunch and dinner service, 1 day off a week
What the restaurant asked for
  • 3 years or more of counter sushi and guest service in high-end restaurants
  • Conversational English or better
  • Overseas work experience welcome
  • Sushi experience in Japanese fine dining welcome
StartNegotiable
Job No. UD250401 · posted 2025-04-16
Sommelier
Open

Junior sommelier for a high-end omakase sushi restaurant in Dubai; floor service, food and drink orders, wine and sake suggestions, phone handling.

PositionJunior chef
ConceptSommelier
LocationThe UAE
Base pay offeredBase pay AED 3,500 a month / about JPY 4.0 million a year
Also in the package
  • Service charge: 10%, about AED 1,000 a month
  • Tips: average AED 4,000 a month, also paid during paid leave
  • Total about AED 8,500 a month
  • No income tax in Dubai
  • Work visa: paid by the company
  • Medical insurance: provided
  • Housing: one furnished room in a shared flat
  • Flights: one way on arrival provided
  • Home flight: round trip once a year after 2 years of service
  • Meals: staff meals every day
Hours and days off11 am to 11 pm, 2 days off a week
What the restaurant asked for
  • 1 year or more as a sommelier or in guest service
  • Fluent English with guests and staff
  • Knowledge of wine and sake, can suggest pairings
  • Teamwork and communication skills
StartAs soon as the visa is issued

Austria

Job No. AT250701 · posted 2025-07-24
Head chef, Sushi
Filled through Washoku Agent

Head chef for a new high-end sushi and omakase restaurant in Salzburg, a new venture of a German corporate group; spend EUR 60 to 80 per guest; runs all operations.

PositionHead chef
ConceptSushi
LocationSalzburg, Austria
Base pay offeredEUR 3,500 to 7,000 a month
Also in the package
  • Equity: 25% ownership stake in the restaurant as co-owner
  • Housing: provided at company cost
  • Medical insurance: local plan
  • Work permit: paid by the company, target within 1 month
  • Flights: Japan to Austria on first arrival
  • Home flight: once a year, every 12 months
  • Tips: shared from the restaurant
  • Performance bonus
Hours and days off8 to 10 hours a day, 4 days off a month
What the restaurant asked for
  • About 10 years or more as a sushi chef
  • Basic English to explain ingredients and hold simple talks
  • Chinese or German speakers welcome
  • Deep traditional sushi and sashimi skills
  • Menu development and new restaurant opening experience
  • Counter sushi with guest service
  • Can propose operational ideas to the owner
  • Has led and managed a kitchen team
  • Proactive and keen on new projects
  • Overseas work experience a plus
StartOctober 2025

Cambodia

Job No. KH251001 · posted 2025-10-07
Tempura Omakase Head Chef
Closed

Head chef for a tempura omakase restaurant in central Phnom Penh; runs the whole restaurant and manages 4 staff, with Japanese-speaking local staff.

PositionHead chef
ConceptJapanese restaurant
LocationPhnom Penh, Cambodia
Base pay offeredUS$3,000 to 4,000 a month
Also in the package
  • Tips: shared equally among 5 staff, on top of pay
  • Housing: provided by the company
  • Visa: full company support
  • Medical: national scheme available, private insurance self-arranged with guidance
Hours and days off6 days a week, 1 day off
What the restaurant asked for
  • Basic Japanese cooking skills, tempura omakase experience not required
  • Flexibility, the most important point
  • Committed to long-term work abroad
  • Can manage a team of 4
  • Tempura, restaurant management or overseas experience preferred
  • English at junior high school level is fine
  • Open to local business practice and customs
StartAs soon as possible

China

Job No. CN250301 · posted 2025-03-25
Teppanyaki chef, Teppanyaki
Closed

Teppanyaki chef for a VIP private teppanyaki room in a hotel in Beijing, employed directly by the hotel; menus, recipes, purchasing and cost control.

PositionTeppanyaki chef
ConceptTeppanyaki
LocationChina
Base pay offeredMonthly pay JPY 600,000 to 1,000,000 gross, set on ability
Also in the package
  • Work visa: arranged and paid by the company
  • Housing: provided, full cost paid by the company
  • Medical insurance: company enrolls you
  • Flights: on arrival paid by the company
  • Home flight: once a year paid by the company
Hours and days off8 hours a day, 8 days off a month
What the restaurant asked for
  • 10 years or more specialising in high-end teppanyaki
  • Can create dishes to VIP requests
  • Can travel and start right after the visa is issued
  • Wider Japanese skills such as sushi and sashimi preferred
  • Basic English or Chinese to talk with management welcome
  • Cooking licence a plus
StartAs soon as the work visa is issued

Germany

Job No. GE251001 · posted 2025-10-01
Sushi Chef
Closed

Sushi chef for a family-run Vietnamese and Japanese kitchen opened in 2023 in a lakeside town in southern Germany; counter sushi and new menu ideas.

PositionHead chef
ConceptSushi
LocationÜberlingen, Germany
Base pay offeredEUR 3,200 to 3,800 a month
Also in the package
  • Housing: company pays up to 50% of rent
  • Commute: e-bike or bicycle provided if far
  • Work permit: support
  • Medical insurance: German health insurance
  • Flights: first flight provided
  • Paid leave: 4 weeks a year
Hours and days off8 to 9 hours a day, 8 days off a month
What the restaurant asked for
  • Basic sushi skills
  • Basic sushi knowledge and drive to improve
  • Committed to long-term work in Germany
  • Adapts to new places and keen to learn
  • Sushi counter or hands-on sushi experience welcome
  • Overseas work experience welcome
  • English around B1 to talk with management; English test for the visa
  • German not required
StartAs soon as possible

Hong Kong

Job No. HK250601 · posted 2025-06-10
Head chef, Kappo
Closed

Kappo head chef for a members-only high-end Japanese restaurant inside a government-related facility in Hong Kong; menus, cooking and guest interaction.

PositionHead chef
ConceptKappo
LocationHong Kong
Base pay offeredMonthly pay HKD 55,000 to 100,000 gross before tax, negotiable on experience
Also in the package
  • Tips: none
  • Bonus: discretionary, 2 to 2.5 months a year, plus 4% at contract end
  • Housing: provided, details at interview
  • Medical insurance: provided
  • Work permit: support, about 6 to 8 weeks
  • Flights: on arrival provided
  • Relocation allowance: provided
Hours and days off45.5 hours a week, 8 days off a month
What the restaurant asked for
  • 3 years or more of kappo in a luxury hotel or leading Japanese restaurant
  • Worked at a Michelin-starred or well-known Japanese restaurant
  • English with management and colleagues, including reading and writing
  • Deep knowledge of kappo philosophy
  • Food waste and cost control
  • Live cooking that engages guests
  • Basic PC skills
  • Innovative, profit-minded, strong business sense
  • Plans kappo ideas with the executive chef
  • HACCP hygiene, equipment and stock control
StartAs soon as possible

Mexico

Job No. MX250501 · posted 2025-05-14
Head Sushi Chef
Open

Head chef for a new omakase sushi branch of a multi-outlet restaurant group in Mexico City; leads the kitchen, develops menus, serves full omakase courses.

PositionHead chef
ConceptOmakase sushi
LocationMexico
Base pay offeredMonthly pay USD 3,000 take-home after tax, paid in Mexican pesos / about JPY 6.0 million a year
Also in the package
  • Housing: provided, rent paid by the company
  • Medical insurance: provided
  • Work permit: provided, about 1 week after applying
  • Flights: one way at start
  • Home flight: once a year
Hours and days off10 hours a day with a 2-hour break, 4 days off a month
What the restaurant asked for
  • Has developed traditional omakase sushi menus
  • Energetic, motivated, creative and ambitious leader
  • Basic English welcome, not required
StartAs soon as hired

Switzerland

Job No. CH250201 · posted 2025-02-20
Head chef, Japanese dining
Open

Head chef for an existing Japanese restaurant in a Swiss ski resort town, open for two years; varied Japanese menu, staff management, purchasing and hygiene.

PositionHead chef
ConceptJapanese dining
LocationSwitzerland
Base pay offeredMonthly pay CHF 5,000 gross before tax / about JPY 9.1 million a year
Also in the package
  • Bonus: once a year, one month of pay
  • Housing support: decided at selection, based on experience
  • Medical insurance: decided at selection
  • Work visa: supported
  • Home flight once a year: decided at selection
  • Long holidays: two 1-month breaks a year
Hours and days off8 to 9 hours a day, lunch and dinner, 1 day off weekly in peak, 2 off peak
What the restaurant asked for
  • 5 years or more of Japanese cooking
  • Energetic, motivated and ambitious, with leadership
  • Japanese and European fusion experience preferred
  • Skilled in ramen, yakitori, sushi and rice bowls
  • Basic English with management and colleagues
  • Creative in menu development
StartJune 2025

Taiwan

Job No. TW250601 · posted 2025-06-17
Head chef, Sushi
Closed

Head sushi chef for an omakase sushi restaurant moving from Taipei to Tainan and reopening; leads Edomae omakase menus, staff and counter service with a Japanese-speaking second chef.

PositionHead chef
ConceptSushi
LocationTaiwan
Base pay offeredNT$150,000 a month
Also in the package
  • Monthly pay TWD 150,000 gross, including housing allowance, paid in TWD
  • Tips: shared with service and kitchen staff
  • Bonus: based on company profit
  • Housing allowance: provided
  • Medical insurance: provided
  • Work permit: provided
  • Flights: on relocation plus two round trips a year
Hours and days off8 to 10 hours a day, 8 days off a month, fixed on Sundays and Mondays
What the restaurant asked for
  • Mastery of Edomae sushi technique
  • Management experience welcome
  • Excellent knife skills and raw seafood handling
  • Leadership, energy, drive and creativity
  • English not required, basic English a plus
StartAs soon as possible

Uzbekistan

Job No. UZ250702 · posted 2025-08-12
Station chef, Teppanyaki
Closed

Section head chefs for a new fine dining restaurant in Tashkent combining omakase sushi, teppanyaki and Japanese fusion; each leads one section under the brand chef.

PositionStation chef
ConceptTeppanyaki
LocationTashkent, Uzbekistan
Base pay offeredUS$5,000 a month
Also in the package
  • Housing: provided, rent paid by the company
  • Medical: actual medical costs paid as an allowance
  • Possible training at an outlet in Moscow before opening
Hours and days off8 to 10 hours a day, 4 days off a month
What the restaurant asked for
  • 10 years or more in the relevant section
  • Omakase: high-end sushi, kappo or kaiseki
  • Teppanyaki: high-end teppanyaki
  • Pastry: dessert creation, mainly Western
  • Basic English or Russian
  • Motivated and adaptable for overseas work
StartSeptember 2025

The Maldives

Job No. MV260702 · posted 2026-07-16
Head Chef (Sushi Omakase, New Opening)
Open

Omakase sushi head chef for a new high-end sushi and teppanyaki restaurant in a resort hotel in the Maldives, opening around April 2027; leads the whole kitchen.

PositionHead chef
ConceptSushi
LocationThe Maldives
Base pay offeredMonthly pay USD 2,200 to 2,750 take-home, MVR 34,000 to 42,000 / about JPY 7.0 million a year
Also in the package
  • Service charge: shared equally, fixed USD 600 a month in pre-opening
  • Housing: private room, shared bathroom, weekly cleaning and laundry
  • Work permit: support
  • Medical insurance: provided
  • Flights: on arrival provided
  • Home flight: round trip after one year
  • Meals: 3 a day, all-day dining once a week
  • Shop allowance: USD 100 a month in goods
  • Mobile phone with data SIM
  • Break: 6 days every 6 months, with USD 600 allowance
  • Bonus: 13th month
  • Paid leave: 30 days a year, sick leave 30 days
Hours and days off8 to 10 hours a day, 4 days off a month
What the restaurant asked for
  • Has led a high-end Edomae sushi counter
  • Sushi chef experience in fine dining preferred
  • Pre-opening experience welcome
  • Basic English for management and guests
  • Positive attitude, can lead the whole team
StartAround January 2027, including pre-opening

The Philippines

Job No. PH250601 · posted 2025-06-20
Junior chef, Sushi
Filled through Washoku Agent

Assistant sushi chef at a Japanese restaurant in Manila open for more than 30 years; prep, counter sushi and guest service, and menu development support.

PositionJunior chef
ConceptSushi
LocationManila, the Philippines
Base pay offeredMonthly pay US$3,000 take-home, after tax, paid locally in PHP
Also in the package
  • Housing: one-room apartment 5 minutes from work, with pool and gym
  • Rent and utilities: free
  • Medical insurance: local cover at designated clinics
  • Work permit: company pays
  • Flights: Japan to Manila on first arrival
  • Flights: one home visit ticket every 12 months
  • Staff meals: provided
Hours and days off8 to 10 hours a day, 4 days off a month
What the restaurant asked for
  • About 10 years or more as a sushi chef
  • Basic English for ingredients and simple talk
  • Deep skill in traditional sushi and sashimi
  • Ingredient and quality control knowledge
  • Counter sushi and guest service skills
  • Team player who proposes new menu ideas
  • Works with the executive chef on menu improvements
StartAugust 2025

The United Kingdom

Job No. UK250601 · posted 2025-06-09
Head Sushi Chef (High-End Sushi Restaurant, London)
Closed

Head chef for a new high-end sushi restaurant opening in a luxury department store in London; menus, staff, suppliers, stock and hygiene.

PositionHead chef
ConceptSushi
LocationLondon, the United Kingdom
Base pay offeredPay GBP 60,000 to 65,000 a year gross before tax
Also in the package
  • Housing: search and contract negotiable, rent mainly at own cost
  • Visa: support, English requirement must be met
  • Flights: one way to London paid by the company
  • Home flight: round trip, considered on experience
  • Medical: public care through the NHS
  • Staff discount card for the department store
Hours and days off45 to 48 hours a week including breaks, 2 days off a week
What the restaurant asked for
  • Overseas work experience in an English-speaking country
  • English for IELTS 4.0 or higher, needed for the visa
  • 10 years or more of high-end counter sushi and guest service
  • High-end sushi opening experience abroad welcome
  • Flexible to local demand, focused on guest satisfaction
  • Cheerful and flexible
  • Builds good ties between kitchen and service
  • Available from September 2025
StartSeptember 2025

Before you set your package

The postings show what owners offered, not what each market requires. Japanese Chef Salary Abroad compares advertised salaries in six countries, and our country guides to hiring and managing Japanese chefs add the visa route, the official salary floors and what a chef from Japan needs on top of the base pay.

Frequently asked questions

Why are the restaurant names not shown?

Owners share their plans with us in confidence, often before an opening is announced. We show the role, concept, city and package so the information is useful to other owners in your country, and we give the restaurant's name only to the chefs we introduce.

Are the positions marked Open still available?

Open means the restaurant was still searching when we last updated this page from our records. Closed means the search stopped. Filled means the position was filled through Washoku Agent.

Can a chef apply through this page?

No. This page is for restaurant owners. Chefs find our positions in Japanese at washoku-agent.com/jobs, where each posting has its own application route.

Why do the packages differ so much?

The role, the concept, the city, whether housing is included and the visa route all move the figure. Our guide Japanese Chef Salary Abroad puts advertised salaries from six countries side by side, and the hiring guide for your country explains the visa route and what a chef from Japan needs on top of the base pay.

We are planning a similar position. What happens next?

Tell us the country, concept, role and timeline through the contact page. We reply with the visa route, the package the market expects and the profile of the chefs in our registered pool who fit.

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