Executive Sushi Chef (Opening Team)

Who We Are

At McGuire Moorman Lambert Hospitality (MML), we create some of the world’s most memorable hospitality experiences—where food, design, service, and storytelling come together seamlessly. Founded by Larry McGuire, Tom Moorman, and Liz Lambert, MML is known for its refined, character-driven approach to restaurants and hotels, rooted in creativity, quality, and a strong sense of place.

As MML continues to grow, we are entering an exciting new chapter—welcoming James Beard Award–winning chef April Bloomfield to our culinary leadership team and expanding into iconic destinations across Texas, California, Colorado, and beyond.

About Neighborhood Sushi

Neighborhood Sushi offers Japanese-inspired cuisine in a casual yet elevated setting, blending Japanese technique, Texas flavors, and Austin hospitality. Designed to feel refined yet approachable, the restaurant highlights pristine nigiri, thoughtful rolls, seasonal small plates, and a welcoming sushi bar experience.

This role is part of the founding opening team, with the opportunity to help shape the identity, systems, and culture of the sushi program from day one.

The Role

We are seeking an experienced and entrepreneurial Executive Sushi Chef to join the opening team at Neighborhood Sushi. This leader will be responsible for building, launching, and sustaining the sushi program—setting culinary standards, developing systems, hiring and training the team, and establishing the tone for long-term success.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on builder: someone who thrives in pre-opening environments, takes pride in craftsmanship, and is excited to create something lasting while upholding MML’s commitment to hospitality and excellence.

What You’ll Do

Pre-Opening & Concept Development

• Partner with MML culinary leadership to refine and execute the opening sushi menu.

• Develop recipes, prep standards, plating guides, and operating procedures.

• Source and establish relationships with seafood purveyors and specialty vendors.

• Assist with kitchen setup, equipment selection, and station design.

• Hire, train, and prepare the opening sushi team ahead of launch.

Culinary Leadership & Execution

• Lead daily sushi operations, ensuring consistency, precision, and quality.

• Uphold the highest standards for fish handling, rice preparation, knife work, and presentation.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and disciplined sushi kitchen.

• Actively work the sushi bar, engaging guests and modeling hospitality.

Team Development & Culture

• Train and mentor sushi chefs, cooks, and prep staff.

• Foster a culture of respect, accountability, and continuous improvement.

• Establish clear expectations, feedback loops, and performance standards.

Operations & Financial Oversight

• Manage ordering, inventory, waste control, and food cost for the sushi program.

• Ensure compliance with all food safety, sanitation, and HACCP requirements.

• Collaborate with the General Manager on scheduling, labor efficiency, and budgeting.

Collaboration & Growth

• Partner closely with FOH, beverage, and leadership teams to ensure seamless service.

• Participate in menu evolution and seasonal updates post-opening.

• Support ongoing training and development as the restaurant grows.

What You’ll Bring

• Sushi Mastery: Deep experience with traditional and modern sushi techniques, fish butchery, and rice preparation.

• Opening Experience: Previous involvement in restaurant openings or concept launches strongly preferred.

• Leadership: Proven ability to build, train, and lead sushi teams in high-quality dining environments.

• Operational Strength: Strong knowledge of fish sourcing, food safety, and sushi-specific cost management.

• Hospitality Mindset: Comfort engaging with guests and representing the brand at the sushi bar.

• Experience: Minimum of five years of progressive sushi leadership experience; Executive or Head Sushi Chef experience preferred.

• Language Skills: English proficiency required; Japanese or Spanish a plus.

What MML Hospitality Offers

• Competitive salary

• Bonus potential

• Paid time off

• MML property discounts (hotel, restaurant, retail)

• Beverage education reimbursement

• Advancement and promotion opportunities

• Community service opportunities

• Relocation assistance (when applicable)

• Medical, dental, vision, disability, life, and pet insurance

• Retirement benefits

• Parental leave

Schedule & Physical Requirements

• Full-time role requiring flexibility during pre-opening and launch.

• Ability to stand and work in a fast-paced kitchen environment for extended periods.

• Regular use of knives and precision tools.

• Occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds.

• Exposure to cold storage, heat, steam, and kitchen noise.

• Reasonable accommodations available for individuals with disabilities.

Additional Information

Employment offers are contingent upon successful completion of a comprehensive background check, including verification of employment history and other relevant credentials.

MML Hospitality is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to fair hiring practices and selection based solely on job-related qualifications.