Director of Culinary

Company: Umami Riot
Location: Boston
Posted on: February 20, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Description: Umami Riot was born from a simple idea: pair joyful hospitality with uncompromising craftsmanship. Founded by Chef Tim Cushman and sake expert Nancy Cushman , our restaurants celebrate bold flavor, precision, and a deep respect for Japanese foodways – translated through a distinctly Boston lens. At Umami Riot, we’re not here to follow the rules of hospitality, we’re here to rewrite them – with heart, craft and fearless creativity. Our team is growing and we are looking for a Director of Culinary who will help steward the group’s culinary vision while ensuring flawless execution across all existing concepts and locations. This role will be deeply involved in culinary standards, technique, training, and financial discipline, and will support new openings, concept evolution, and strategic growth initiatives. Key Responsibilities include but are not limited to: Culinary Excellence & Standards · Uphold and evolve culinary standards rooted in Michelin-level technique, product integrity, and execution. · Ensure consistency of flavor, presentation, and execution across all kitchens. · Translate fine-dining discipline into practical systems that function at scale. · Lead by example in kitchens when needed. · Maintain food safety, sanitation, and regulatory compliance. Financial & Operational Leadership · Demonstrate strong store-level financial acumen including food cost and labor control. · Partner with operations and finance to analyze P&Ls and performance. · Support budgeting and cost-control strategies. People Development & Mentorship · Recruit, mentor, and develop chef leaders. · Establish accountability and performance standards. · Support succession planning and leadership development. Menu Development & Innovation · Support technique-driven, product-forward menu development. · Balance creativity with scalability and profitability. · Support new openings and concept development. · Partner cross-functionally on growth initiatives. · Additional duties as required Requirements: ·7 years of progressive culinary leadership experience. · Michelin-starred, Michelin-recognized, or equivalent fine-dining background. · Strong command of classical and modern techniques. · Proven financial and operational leadership. · Ability to travel as needed.

Keywords: Umami Riot, Arlington , Director of Culinary, Hospitality & Tourism , Boston, Massachusetts