KIBOU is an independent Japanese restaurant and bar with restaurants in Battersea, Cheltenham, Bristol, Solihull, Oxford and Cambridge.

Our kitchens deliver a diverse menu showcasing a variety of Japanese cuisine, all handmade or hand-rolled fresh in the kitchen daily and our stringent sourcing policy ensures that we only ever use the freshest, best quality and most authentic ingredients, so our guests can enjoy a premium dining experience with each visit.

Each KIBOU has a dedicated sushi kitchen offering an extensive selection of handmade-to-order sushi and sashimi.

Your role will be to manage the day-to-day running of the kitchen operations and the team, with motivation and commitment to deliver outstanding service. To lead the kitchen team from the front to create a fun, authentic and original dining experience that will support our core values.

At KIBOU, we’re looking for incredible individuals to come on a journey with us, helping to grow our small family of restaurants whilst delivering exceptional food and service to all of our guests. Being part of a small growing business, you’ll have the opportunity to work on menu development, bringing your own ideas to the table and helping us grow our offering.

Experience, Qualifications and Skills we need:

Experience in Japanese cuisine preferred but not essential
Ability to recruit, train and develop effective and passionate teams
Proven track record of delivering sales growth through consistent food quality and service
Effective labour cost management
Track record of delivering budgeted food margins
Flare for creative and authentic menu development
Experience in running large teams of chefs
Ensure legal compliance and health & safety are managed as required

KIBOU are a considerate and respectful employer, and we place team wellbeing at the heart of our operation.

We love our people and are thrilled to be growing our team!

Why work with us :

A business with our people at its core, valuing individuals as much as the team
A restaurant-led organisation that champions operational autonomy and the freedom to thrive, with opportunities to shape how the business evolves and grows.
Personalised training programmes and development opportunities tailored to you
100% equal and transparent service charge policy
Japanese culture & cuisine 101. Get to know Japanese food!
Regular socials, including the annual KIBOU awards show and summer party
Employee discounts when you dine in any of our restaurants
Free meals cooked by your chefs, or generously discounted menu items on shift
Professional confidential support with the wellness programme, Licensed Trade Charity
Financial well-being with Hastee
Enhanced Pension provision through Salary Exchange
Additional Financial Benefits delivered through Aslan
Recognised as being one of the Top 30 Best Places to Work in Hospitality 2025, by The Caterer

Head Chef Cambridge