Top 10 Sushi Chef Interview Questions & Sample Answers
Prepare for an upcoming Sushi Chef job interview by looking at common interview questions and their example answers.
We’ve covered three different groups of questions in this guide: 1) questions about skills and experience, 2) questions about customer service and 3) situational, scenario-based questions.
So, whether you’re an applicant wanting to ace your interview and land that dream Sushi Chef job, or an employer looking for effective questions to ask Sushi Chef candidates, this guide has you covered.
Sushi Chef Interview Questions About Skills and Experience
As a hiring manager, your goal is to find a skilled Sushi Chef with enough previous experience in this role. In most cases, two years is the minimum experience requirement but you may also opt to require more from applicants.
As a job seeker, your goal is to clearly and concisely describe your previous experience as a Sushi Chef, as well as highlight relevant skills you possess. This will help the interviewer or hiring manager determine whether you’re a good fit for the role or not.
Even though formal education isn’t as important as experience for this role, make sure to mention your culinary degree or relevant certifications (if you have them). These can help you stand out among other Sushi Chef applicants.
Sushi Chefs FAQs About Experience and Skills
“I started my career as a Prep Cook for a Sushi Chef at [Restaurant Name]. After a year and a half in this role, I was promoted to a Sushi Chef role. Under the guidance of the Head Sushi Chef, I received comprehensive training in both traditional and modern sushi-making techniques.
As a Sushi Chef at the same establishment, I gained extensive experience in preparing different types of sushi, including sashimi, nigiri, maki and temaki. I was responsible for the entire sushi preparation process — from selecting and cutting fish to assembling the dishes.
I also worked with the Head Sushi Chef to create seasonal specials, making sure our menu stayed fresh and exciting.”
“To determine whether a fish is fresh and of high quality, I look for the following things: bright, clear eyes, a vivid color, firm and springy flesh that bounces back when pressed and a mild, fresh ocean scent.
I also check if the gills are bright red and not brown or gray as the latter means the fish is not fresh.”
“Following knife safety protocols is essential if you want to avoid accidents. What I do is make sure my knives are always sharp, allowing for cleaner cuts and reduced risk of slipping.
When holding my knives I keep a firm grip, cut away from my body and keep my fingers clear of the blade’s path. I also ensure the work area is well-lit and free of clutter, providing a safe environment for cutting.
Moreover, I use wooden cutting boards that are gentle on the blades and prevent them from dulling quickly. Once I’m done with the knives, I clean them properly and store them safely in a designated knife rack.”
Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto Shows Off His Famous Knife Skills
Wondering how experienced Sushi Chefs slice and dice a perfect sashimi dish? Play the video below to see how the 41-time Iron Chef champion Chef Masaharu Morimoto does it:
Sushi Chef Interview Questions About Customer Service
Sushi Chefs who work in sushi bars often interact directly with customers, which means that providing excellent customer service is an important part of the job.
As an interviewer, you need to ask the right questions to get a better understanding of the applicant’s customer service skills. You don’t want your potential hires to lack in this area because this could lead to dissatisfied customers and negative reviews.
As an applicant, you want to convince the interviewer that you are great with people and know how to provide exceptional customer service. That said, here are some common interview questions about customer service for Sushi Chefs:
Sushi Chef Customer Service FAQs
“Sushi is all about customization! When working at a sushi bar, I make it my priority to talk to customers about their preferences or allergies to create the perfect meal for them.
To be able to customize sushi dishes towards specific dietary needs or preferences, I need to have a variety of ingredients that cater to different dietary needs at hand. This is why I make sure to stock up on vegetarian options and gluten-free items like brown rice and gluten-free soy sauce.
I know a lot about different food allergies, which makes it easier for me to choose safe substitutes. To avoid contamination or mix-ups, I use separate prep areas. If there’s a dish I can’t customize, I let the customer know and suggest another delicious option.”
“When a customer has a complaint, I listen attentively to understand the issue fully. Then, I apologize and offer a solution such as preparing a new dish or offering a free item.
I then investigate the cause of the problem to prevent me and my team from making the same mistake in the future. My goal is to make sure that every customer leaves satisfied and comes back again.”
“Clear communication is key for keeping the operations running smoothly during peak hours. First of all, I believe in being upfront with customers about wait times.
If they have to wait for more than 30 minutes, I would tell the Servers to offer customers complimentary items like small appetizers or drinks to make their wait more pleasant.”
Situational Questions Asked in a Sushi Chef Interview
Situational interview questions measure the candidate’s capacity for quick thinking and problem-solving.
As an interviewer, present a situation a Sushi Chef candidate might face on the job to see how they would handle it.
As an interviewee, focus on providing a good solution to the hypothetical issue without stuttering or hesitating.
Situational Sushi Chef Interview Questions
“First, I would apologize to the customer and ensure they are okay. I would reassure the customer that their health and satisfaction are our top priorities. Then, I would take the dish in question back to the kitchen.
Once back in the kitchen, I would quickly examine the dish to verify if there really was a bone present. In case I find it, I would offer the customer a replacement dish of their choice, free of charge.”
“A supportive work environment is extremely important, which is why I would approach the new Chef with empathy and offer help.
Noticing their poor knife skills, I would demonstrate proper techniques during downtime or after service, placing the emphasis on safety and efficiency. I would also encourage the new Chef to practice their knife skills in their free time.”
“Food safety is always a top priority, so I would immediately point out the violation to the Head Chef or the Restaurant Manager. Instead of accusing anyone from the staff, I would frame the violation as a potential risk and suggest we double-check storage procedures together.
To avoid creating unnecessary panic, I would make sure not to address this issue in front of customers who might be within earshot.”
“I would start by researching current sushi trends and popular flavor combinations. Then, I would brainstorm unique ingredient combinations that complement each other and align with the restaurant’s style. Experimenting would play a big part here — I would create several prototypes for my colleagues and some regulars to taste-test. If adjustments are needed based on their feedback, I’d tweak my sushi roll recipe until it’s perfect for our menu.”
How To Prepare for a Sushi Chef Job Interview
Learn how to prepare for a Sushi Chef job interview as a candidate and interviewer by following the tips below.
As a candidate:
- Find out everything about your prospective employer by checking their website and social media accounts. There, you’ll find their menu, establishment photos and other useful information that will help you understand the way they work and the type of clientele they serve.
- Brush up on your knowledge of sushi techniques, ingredients and current flavor trends.
- Carefully read the Sushi Chef job description to understand what the employer expects of someone working in this role.
- Practice your answers to scenario-based questions interviewers will use to assess your problem-solving skills with a friend or family member. This will allow you to feel more confident during the interview.
- Pay attention to your body language. Maintain good eye contact and an upright posture if you want to appear confident. Fidgeting, slouching and avoiding eye contact will make you look nervous and may hurt your chances of getting the job.
As an interviewer or hiring manager:
- Start with easy, general questions to make the candidate feel more comfortable.
- Ask questions that will allow you to quickly assess the candidate’s experience and expertise.
- Allow candidates to ask questions about the role and the restaurant.
- Clearly describe the next steps in the interview process.