Job Search Status
Open to workDesired start date: Immediately
Open To Work
Jonathan Kotsuki
Sushi Chef
Shibuya,13
Work Preference
Summary
Dynamic and personable culinary professional recognized for fostering a warm and inviting atmosphere for patrons and colleagues. High energy and an outgoing nature complement extensive knowledge of front-of-house (FOH) and back-of-house (BOH) operations, developed through diverse restaurant experiences. Expertise in sushi preparation combines traditional and contemporary techniques, ensuring exceptional presentation and flavor in every dish. Committed to teamwork and adaptability, consistently contributes to seamless kitchen operations while maintaining rigorous standards of cleanliness and organization.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certificate
Work History
Sushi Chef
Strip Steakhouse
Honolulu, HI
01.2017 - 03.2026
- Achieved seamless sushi bar operations by establishing efficient mis en place and order management systems. Improved protein breakdown procedures to optimize kitchen workflow.
- Skillfully crafted an assortment of sushi rolls, emphasizing traditional methods and premium ingredient selection.
- Developed and maintained food safety and hygiene practices in kitchen operations to uphold industry standards.
- Developed and implemented training programs for junior chefs focused on sushi preparation and presentation excellence.
- Created distinctive culinary dishes that contributed to an exceptional dining atmosphere.
- Engaged with front-of-house team members to maintain timely service standards and enhance customer experience.
- Managed team performance to maintain exceptional food quality and service during busy hours.
- Executed the preparation of high-quality seafood rice and curated essential ingredients for sushi dishes.
- Analyzed customer feedback to optimize dish offerings and ensure alignment with dining preferences.
- Optimized mise en place setup to support seamless kitchen operations and maintain consistency.
- Executed fish filleting using specialized knives and hand tools to maintain high standards in sushi preparation.
- Built and maintained strong professional relationships with colleagues by promoting open dialogue and collaboration.
- Implemented rigorous food safety protocols and upheld cleanliness standards to support operational excellence.
- Executed timely order completion during peak hours to maintain high guest satisfaction and uphold quality standards.
- Fostered a loyal patron base by providing individualized service and ensuring consistent food quality.
- Implemented initiatives to create an educational kitchen setting, resulting in increased team morale and productivity.
- Developed and executed customized service strategies to address dietary restrictions and preferences.
- Evaluated guest feedback and interactions to tailor menu suggestions and promptly address any concerns.
- Established a supportive workplace atmosphere to enhance employee empowerment and facilitate continuous growth in their roles.
- Contributed to staff meetings with strategic insights to promote a positive work environment.
- Applied traditional sushi-making techniques to create an assortment of rolls, emphasizing freshness and flavor.
- Conducted regular inspections and training to uphold food safety and hygiene standards in kitchen operations.
- Coordinated kitchen setup and dismantling processes to maintain operational efficiency during service.
- Performed thorough inspections of food products to verify adherence to freshness and quality benchmarks.
- Analyzed and documented feedback from food tastings and taste tests to inform product development and improvement strategies.
Sushi Chef
Nobu Restaurant
Honolulu, HI
06.2012 - 01.2017
- Managed customer interactions by providing timely resolutions to inquiries and concerns.
- Executed daily tasks at the prep station, prioritizing cleanliness and operational efficiency.
- Managed the cooking of sushi rice, focusing on precision and consistency for authentic Japanese cuisine.
- Oversaw quality assurance in fish preparation by implementing precise cutting and handling techniques. Enhanced kitchen efficiency by optimizing fish processing workflows. Elevated customer satisfaction through the consistent delivery of fresh and expertly crafted fish dishes.
- Directed kitchen team in adherence to rigorous culinary standards while optimizing workflow and service delivery.
- Crafted and executed original culinary concepts that significantly improved guest enjoyment and engagement.
- Executed thorough cooking verification processes through tasting, smelling, and piercing food items with a fork.
- Guided new kitchen team members in implementing food safety practices and mastering culinary techniques to enhance overall kitchen performance.
- Achieved optimal food quality through diligent monitoring of ingredients. Enhanced inventory management by tracking old and new items effectively. Improved product freshness by executing systematic stock rotation.
- Oversaw preparation of food items, meticulously following recipes and portion control protocols to enhance culinary output.
- Followed detailed recipes and customer guidelines to prepare and cook meals, maintaining high culinary standards.
- Performed routine cleaning and organization of kitchen to uphold hygiene standards and operational efficiency.
- Optimized food inventory management through the introduction of a cutting-edge tracking system, resulting in substantial waste reduction.
- Conducted thorough inspections and repairs of kitchen equipment, safeguarding against unexpected disruptions in service.
- Engaged in supplier negotiations to achieve better pricing on premium ingredients, boosting profitability.
- Executed consistent meal preparation processes, resulting in increased customer retention and satisfaction.
- Facilitated continuous improvement initiatives by actively seeking feedback and executing recommendations to refine kitchen operations.
- Developed and adjusted recipes for various dietary restrictions, promoting a positive dining experience for all guests.
- Designed and executed system enhancements to maintain uninterrupted kitchen workflow during high-demand periods.
- Established partnerships with local farmers to procure fresh ingredients, promoting sustainability and quality in menu items.
- Implemented systematic organization and cleanliness protocols at workstation to support seamless kitchen workflow.
- Facilitated open communication and collaborative initiatives to improve team morale and increase overall productivity.
- Facilitated communication with front-of-house team to guarantee timely order delivery and improve overall customer experience.
- Monitored and enforced high food safety and hygiene standards, consistently exceeding health inspection criteria.
- Developed and implemented mentorship programs for junior staff, promoting professional growth in culinary arts.
- Developed expertise in multiple cooking techniques, resulting in a broader menu and unique dish creations.
- Optimized culinary processes for special events by engaging with front-of-house personnel and tailoring services to meet unique client needs.
- Ensured proper storage of unused food in designated containers within refrigerator to extend freshness.
- Meticulously arranged and showcased all dishes to adhere to restaurant's quality and presentation guidelines.
- Analyzed workflow and introduced effective time management techniques to boost operational efficiency in the kitchen.
Sushi Cook / Food and Beverage Cashier
Mr. Robotos Tokyo Grill
Tallahassee, Fl
06.2009 - 05.2012
- Executed preparation of sushi and sashimi with a focus on maintaining high-quality taste and visual appeal.
- Directed inventory control processes for fresh ingredients to minimize waste and sustain stock levels necessary for operational efficiency.
- Conducted comprehensive training sessions for new kitchen staff to enhance sushi preparation skills and ensure adherence to safety standards.
- Facilitated coordination with front-of-house staff to ensure efficient service and kitchen operations during high-demand periods.
Education
Bachelor of Art - International Business
University of Hawaii
Honolulu, HI01-2014
Associates of Art - undefined
Tallahassee Community College
Tallahassee, FL01-2012
High School Diploma - undefined
Roosevelt High School
Honolulu, HI01-2009
Skills
- Efficient food preparation
- Food safety compliance
- Point of sale expertise
- Recipe development experience
- Food handling proficiency
- Meal preparation expertise
- Dining area maintenance
- Event catering
- Advanced knife techniques
- Kitchen operations knowledge
- Nutritional meal preparation
- Nutritional aide background
- Seasonal menu development
- Proficient in food service operations
- Sushi rice handling
- Fish filleting
- Proficient in sushi rice handling
- Skilled in sashimi techniques
- Food safety management
- Understanding of traditional Japanese dishes
- Health and safety measures
- Engaging with guests
- Expertise in sauce development
- Fish quality assessment
- Cleanliness oversight
- Skilled verbal and written communication
- Advanced rolling techniques
- Seasonal menu planning
- Artistic plating design
- Portion management skills
- Culinary ingredient synergy
- Enhancing rice taste
- Efficient kitchen setup
- Client relationship management
- Recipe customization expertise
- Ingredient evaluation
- Expertise in tempura techniques
- Customer service assistance
- Food safety assessment
- Catering menu development for events
- Sushi assembly
- Monitoring attendance
- Strategic team guidance
- Strong attention to detail
- Quality assessment
- Recipe design and testing
- Strategic idea generation
- Assessment of team performance
- Cross-functional collaboration
- Dining establishment oversight
- Recipe creation
- Culinary dish development
- Inventory management
- Efficiency improvement
- Workforce education
Certification
Food Handler Certification
Languages
Japanese - Fluent
Timeline
Sushi Chef
Strip Steakhouse
01.2017 - 03.2026
Sushi Chef
Nobu Restaurant
06.2012 - 01.2017
Sushi Cook / Food and Beverage Cashier
Mr. Robotos Tokyo Grill
06.2009 - 05.2012
Associates of Art - undefined
Tallahassee Community College
High School Diploma - undefined
Roosevelt High School
Bachelor of Art - International Business
University of Hawaii
Additional Information
- Skills Computer:
- Proficient in MS Office (PowerPoint, Word, Excel).
- Point of Sale (POS) Systems.