Job Overview

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Compensation

Hourly
Range $17.00 - $26.50
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Benefits

Health Insurance
Paid Time Off
Employee Discounts
Retirement Plan
flexible schedule
Professional development opportunities

Job Description

Fortu is a contemporary restaurant known for its innovative approach to modern Asian cuisine, blending traditional culinary arts with fresh, creative techniques. Located in a vibrant community, Fortu prides itself on delivering an exceptional dining experience that emphasizes freshness, quality, and artistry in every dish. As a respected establishment in the restaurant industry, Fortu is dedicated to the craft of cuisine and maintains a dynamic kitchen environment where culinary professionals thrive. With an inspiring blend of Japanese culinary traditions and modern flair, the restaurant continues to attract guests who appreciate authentic flavors alongside creative innovation in their meals.

We are currently seeking an experienced, skilled Sushi Chef to join our team and take a pivotal role at the heart of our kitchen. Reporting directly to the Executive Chef and Sous Chef, the Sushi Chef will be responsible for the meticulous preparation, presentation, and execution of sushi, sashimi, and other related dishes that meet Fortu's high standards of quality and aesthetic appeal. This role demands an expert level of knife skills, a profound understanding of fish and seafood quality, and the ability to handle raw products safely. The Sushi Chef must respect the deep traditions of Japanese cuisine while embracing innovation within our modern Asian concept.

The ideal candidate will excel in crafting sushi dishes ranging from nigiri and maki to sashimi with precision and artistry. They will expertly break down whole fish and seafood to maximize yield without compromising quality and ensure that all ingredients are fresh and handled correctly, adhering to strict food safety standards. The role includes daily mise en place and sushi bar setup, maintaining the cleanliness and sanitation of the sushi station, and managing proper labeling, dating, and storage using FIFO practices to minimize waste.

In addition to technical skills, the Sushi Chef will collaborate with the culinary team to develop new roll variations, specials, and seasonal sushi offerings that make Fortu’s menu stand out. This position also calls for excellent guest interaction skills when working the open sushi bar or counter, demonstrating professionalism and hospitality. Compliance with all Florida Department of Health and Pinellas County regulations concerning food safety and sanitation, especially those specific to raw fish preparation, is mandatory.

This full-time position offers the opportunity to work in a high-quality dining environment where dedication to culinary craft, precision, and innovation are valued. Candidates passionate about sushi and Japanese cuisine, who seek to grow their careers in a supportive yet challenging kitchen atmosphere, will find this role rewarding. Fortu encourages team-oriented professionals who communicate well and can work efficiently under pressure to apply. Join us to showcase your sushi expertise while contributing to a modern culinary vision that celebrates tradition and creativity.

Job Requirements

  • Minimum of 2 years of experience as a sushi chef or in a dedicated sushi/raw-bar role
  • Demonstrated expertise in fish fabrication and knife skills
  • Strong knowledge of fish and seafood quality and raw-product food safety
  • Understanding of Japanese culinary traditions
  • Ability to perform under pressure with keen attention to detail
  • Team-oriented attitude and strong communication skills

Job Qualifications

  • Minimum of 2 years of experience as a sushi chef or in a dedicated sushi/raw-bar role, preferably in a fine-dining or high-quality restaurant
  • Demonstrated expertise in fish fabrication, knife skills, rice preparation, and traditional sushi techniques
  • Strong knowledge of fish and seafood quality, sourcing, handling, and raw-product food safety
  • Understanding of Japanese culinary traditions, with creativity to contribute to a modern Asian menu
  • Culinary training or certification from an accredited program is a plus but not required
  • Keen attention to detail, consistency, and presentation, with the ability to perform under pressure
  • A team-oriented attitude, reliability, and strong communication skills

Job Duties

  • Prepare sushi, sashimi, nigiri, maki, and related dishes to recipe and presentation specifications with consistency and artistry
  • Expertly break down, fabricate, and portion whole fish and seafood, maximizing yield while maintaining quality
  • Inspect, receive, and evaluate the quality and freshness of fish and seafood
  • ensure proper handling, temperature, and storage at all times
  • Complete daily mise en place and sushi-bar setup before service, ensuring all ingredients are prepped, portioned, and ready
  • Maintain impeccable cleanliness and sanitation at the sushi station, adhering to strict raw-seafood food-safety protocols
  • Properly label, date, store, and rotate (FIFO) all seafood and ingredients to ensure freshness and minimize waste
  • Contribute to the development of new rolls, specials, and seasonal sushi offerings in collaboration with the culinary team
  • Engage guests with professionalism and hospitality when working an open sushi bar or counter
  • Adhere to all Florida Department of Health and Pinellas County food-safety and sanitation regulations, including requirements specific to raw fish preparation

Job Criteria

Experience

Mid Level (3-7 years)


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