Job Description

Head Sushi Chef -- MA/NA (Opening January 2026)

Location: 30 Upper Grosvenor Street, Mayfair

Opening: January 2026

About MA/NA

Opening in January 2026 on Upper Grosvenor Street, MA/NA is born from the Japanese philosophy that every ingredient carries an invisible power -- a life-force shaped by nature and the hands that honour it.


'Mana' is the spiritual energy that exists beneath the surface of all things. It is felt rather than seen -- transforming emotion into experience, and a meal into memory.


Guided by this belief, MA/NA will offer a seamless blend of restaurant and bar -- refined Japanese dishes alongside an exceptional cocktail, wine and sake list. Here, cocktails flow effortlessly into dinner, and dinner naturally returns to drinks.


Every element of MA/NA -- from design and service to sound and light -- is intentional. Each detail celebrates the extraordinary within the simple.

The Kitchen

Under the direction of Executive Chef Leo Tanyag (Los Mochis, JUNO, LUNA Omakase; formerly OKKU Dubai), the kitchen at MA/NA celebrates the craft of Japanese cuisine -- the quiet mastery of precise cuts, the patience of fermentation, and the connection between earth and ocean.


Each dish is a study in restraint, depth and precision -- balancing traditional Japanese technique with contemporary flair.

The Role

As Head Sushi Chef, you will lead the sushi and sashimi section with discipline, artistry, and respect for tradition. You'll be responsible for maintaining the highest standards of quality, presentation, and flow within the sushi counter and kitchen.


Working alongside Chef Tanyag and the senior team, you will shape the sushi offering at MA/NA -- from ingredient selection and preparation to service execution and seasonal development.


You'll lead by example: calm, precise, and deeply connected to your craft. You'll inspire and train your team, ensuring every movement -- from the cut of a knife to the placement of garnish -- reflects mastery and intention.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee all aspects of the sushi and sashimi section, ensuring consistency and precision in every service Select, handle, and prepare fresh produce with care and expertise Develop and refine seasonal sushi menus in collaboration with the Executive Chef Maintain hygiene, quality, and safety standards across all sushi preparation areas Train and mentor junior sushi chefs, fostering a culture of respect and craftsmanship Contribute to the creative evolution of MA/NA's Japanese offering

What We're Looking For

Proven experience as Head Sushi Chef or Senior Sushi Chef in a fine dining or high-end Japanese restaurant Deep understanding of Japanese culinary philosophy, knife work, and ingredient handling Exceptional attention to detail, timing, and presentation Calm leadership style with strong communication and mentoring skills Commitment to excellence, precision, and continuous growth

What We Offer

Competitive salary and service charge package Opportunity to lead the sushi section of one of London's most anticipated openings Work alongside a world-class culinary and bar team within the Thesleff Group Ongoing development, training, and creative input in menu evolution Staff meals, wellness initiatives, and a supportive, respectful workplace

Join the MA/NA Opening Team

If you are guided by craft, balance, and beauty -- and want to lead a team that transforms simplicity into art -- we would love to hear from you.


INDMANAGE