Koya is an all-day Japanese udon restaurant with a strong focus on fresh, seasonal produce. It first opened in Soho in 2010 and now has two more branches in the City and Hackney. Udon is a pillar of Japanese cuisine and Koya’s innovative menu is underpinned by their signature udon and dashi, the udon being made fresh daily in their central kitchen in London Fields before being biked to Soho, City and Hackney. Over the years Koya has built strong relationships with small independent suppliers who share a commitment to seasonal, quality ingredients which allow them to also create a shifting specials menu of more modern Japanese dishes that venture beyond the udon and dashi and reflect London’s cosmopolitan food culture.

We’re looking for an experienced chef to lead our kitchen at Koya Soho. As our original site, Koya Soho offers an ever-changing board of specials in a fast-paced, intimate open kitchen/dining room. You’ll be working closely with Shuko and the team to create and deliver these dishes. We’re seeking someone with prior Head Chef or senior sous chef experience. A background in Japanese cooking is not essential — but a genuine interest in learning and engaging with our style of cuisine absolutely is.

You’ll take responsibility for delivering outstanding food and nurturing a strong, positive team culture — while ensuring the kitchen runs efficiently, commercially, and in line with our long-term goals. You’ll collaborate with our operations manager and senior leadership team to develop specials, train and mentor staff, and maintain consistently high standards.