Sushi Chef

Job Description

? Islamorada, Florida Keys | Full-Time | Sushi Sous Chef Level

Where Japanese Culinary Tradition Meets Island Luxury
Located inside the renowned Cheeca Lodge & Spa, Nikai Sushi Bar & Restaurant is more than a destination—it’s an experience. Serving expertly crafted sushi, sashimi, and Japanese-inspired small plates using fresh, locally and internationally sourced ingredients, Nikai melds the art of sushi with the tropical ambiance of the Florida Keys. We're seeking a Sushi Chef at the Sous Chef level to lead this exclusive culinary outlet with vision, precision, and passion.

As Sushi Chef, you’ll oversee all culinary operations at Nikai—from managing the sushi station and inventory to mentoring staff and curating memorable guest experiences. This is a leadership position for a chef ready to take ownership of a highly visible culinary concept at one of Florida’s top resorts.

• Prepare and oversee all sushi and Japanese-inspired offerings, ensuring precision, artistry, and consistency.

• Manage daily prep, including fish butchering, rice preparation, and mise en place.

• Develop signature menu items, seasonal features, and visually stunning plate presentations.

• Collaborate with the Executive Chef and F&B team to elevate Nikai’s culinary offerings.

• Lead and train the sushi team, fostering a culture of professionalism, speed, and cleanliness.

• Conduct regular line checks, quality control, and coaching to ensure consistent standards.

• Promote team engagement, ensuring respectful communication and performance improvement.

• Maintain accurate inventory tracking, waste control, and ordering of fresh seafood and supplies.

• Monitor vendor deliveries for accuracy and quality.

• Support cost control efforts through portion consistency, recipe adherence, and labor efficiency.

• Occasionally interact with guests at the sushi bar, private events, or during high-touch experiences.

• Represent the culinary team with a calm, polished demeanor, embodying the warmth of Cheeca Lodge.

• Minimum 3 years of experience as a Sushi Chef (Sous Chef-level or above preferred).

• Proven leadership skills in a fine dining or resort environment.

• Deep knowledge of traditional and modern Japanese cuisine, knife techniques, and sushi rice fundamentals.

• Experience in menu development, fish butchering, inventory, and ordering.

• Ability to train and develop kitchen staff.

• Must have excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and organizational ability.

• Portfolio or photos of your sushi and plating work highly encouraged. Send to HR@Cheeca.com after applying.

Work in a stunning oceanfront kitchen, surrounded by excellence, and bring your creativity to life in one of the Florida Keys’ premier fine dining experiences. As part of the culinary leadership team, your influence shapes the guest experience—and your skills are celebrated daily.

• 401(k) with employer matching (100% vested after 90 days)

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance

• Paid Time Off + 8 Paid Holidays

• Employer Paid Short-Term & Long-Term Disability Insurance

• AD&D and Life Insurance

• Pet Insurance

• Employee Discounts at Northwood Hospitality Properties

• Flexible Spending & Health Savings Accounts

? For stronger consideration, email your sushi portfolio to HR@Cheeca.com
Join the team at Nikai Sushi Bar, where the tradition of Japan meets the soul of Islamorada.