Head Chef – ICHI Utrecht
Lead the Opening of a New ICHI Restaurant
ICHI is expanding.
Following the success of our existing restaurants, we are opening a new location in Utrecht and are looking for an ambitious and experienced Head Chef to lead the kitchen team.
This is a unique opportunity to become part of a proven and growing restaurant group. The culinary concept, menu philosophy, recipes, operational systems, and standards have already been successfully developed by ICHI Executive Chef Nghia. As Head Chef, you will work closely alongside Executive Chef Nghia to implement and maintain the ICHI vision while building and leading your own kitchen team in Utrecht.
We are not looking for someone to reinvent the concept—we are looking for a strong culinary leader who can execute excellence, inspire a team, and help elevate the ICHI brand to the next level.
About ICHI
ICHI is a modern Asian dining concept focused on premium ingredients, refined techniques, exceptional hospitality, and consistent quality. Our cuisine blends Japanese influences with contemporary Asian flavors, creating a dining experience that is both approachable and sophisticated.
Your Responsibilities
- Lead all daily kitchen operations at ICHI Utrecht.
- Work directly with Executive Chef Nghia to maintain ICHI’s culinary standards.
- Execute established recipes, systems, and procedures with consistency.
- Train, coach, and develop the kitchen brigade.
- Ensure exceptional food quality, presentation, and service standards.
- Manage inventory, ordering, food costs, and kitchen scheduling.
- Maintain HACCP and food safety compliance.
- Assist with menu implementation and seasonal developments.
- Build a strong kitchen culture focused on professionalism, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
- Support the successful launch and growth of the new Utrecht location.
What We Are Looking For
- Proven experience as Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a quality-driven restaurant.
- Strong leadership and people-management skills.
- Experience opening new restaurant locations is an advantage.
- Excellent understanding of kitchen organization and cost control.
- Passion for Asian cuisine, Japanese cuisine, sushi, fusion, or fine dining concepts.
- Ability to lead by example and remain calm under pressure.
- Strong communication and organizational skills.
- Commitment to excellence, consistency, and guest satisfaction.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary package based on experience.
- Opportunity to lead the kitchen of a brand-new restaurant opening.
- Direct mentorship and collaboration with Executive Chef Nghia.
- Work within a successful and proven restaurant concept.
- Professional kitchen equipped with high-quality tools and ingredients.
- Long-term career opportunities within a growing hospitality group.
- International working environment.
- Staff meals and employee benefits.
International Candidates
Qualified international chefs are welcome to apply.
- Housing assistance available.
- Visa sponsorship possible for suitable candidates.
- Relocation support available.
Location
ICHI UtrechtThe Netherlands
Apply Now
If you are a passionate culinary leader ready to take ownership of a new restaurant while working within a successful and established concept, we would love to hear from you.
Send your CV and motivation letter to: [email protected]
Join ICHI Utrecht and help shape the next chapter of our success story.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From €3.500,00 per month
Work Location: In person