Head Chef

About the Job

Duke of Tokyo is an award-winning cocktail and private karaoke bar, where DJs come and create a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere during the weekends.

It's now time for us to take it to the next level: While we already offer a selection of Japanese-style snacks for both our karaoke and bar guests, we're ready to expand our kitchen and take our dining experience to the next level!

To kick-start this project, we need an ambitious and creative Head Chef who’s ready to take charge from day one. This isn’t just about stepping into an existing team - you’ll be part of the foundation, helping shape the entire kitchen, from the menu to the team culture.

You'll have creative freedom to develop a unique menu, source ingredients, and set up kitchen operations exactly how they should be. As we prepare to open our doors, you'll be involved in everything from hiring and training your own kitchen team to fine-tuning recipes and ensuring our workflow is seamless.

If you're passionate about food and flavors - especially Japanese cuisine - and excited by the idea of building something new, this is your chance to make your mark. You'll have a real say in how things are done and play a key role in creating a high-energy, welcoming atmosphere for both staff and guests.

Key Responsibilities

• Menu development - designing, testing, and perfecting dishes that will define our kitchen

• Building and leading the kitchen team - hiring, training, and managing your crew

• Setting up kitchen operations – structuring workflows, sourcing suppliers, and ensuring everything runs efficiently

• Maintaining top-quality food standards – from prep to plating

• Managing kitchen costs – stock control, budgeting, and minimizing waste

• Overseeing kitchen maintenance – making sure everything stays in top shape on the long-term

• Keeping food hygiene and safety standards in check

About you

• Minimum 2 years of experience in a similar leadership role

• Fluent in Dutch and/or English

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Enthusiastic about both the creative AND the back-office side of the job, such as menu development, cost control, budgeting, and managing staff schedules

• A strong leader by nature. You thrive on building and organizing a kitchen from scratch

• Always open and eager to learn, improve, and perfect your craft

• Flexible (evenings, weekends, and holidays are part of the job)

• Comfortable working independently and making decisions without always needing supervision

• Knowledge and experience with Japanese cuisine, or strong knowledge of it with a passion to learn

What you get in return

• A unique opportunity to help build a kitchen from the ground up

• Creative freedom in menu development and kitchen setup

• Competitive salary

• A fun, vibrant work environment with room for growth and development

• Travel expenses (if you live outside Rotterdam) can be discussed

• 25 vacation days (based on a full-time contract)

• Team outings, parties, and an all-around positive and supportive work atmosphere