Job Description

Position: Culinary Prep Associate — Artisanal Ramen (Edinburgh)

Location: Multiple Edinburgh Locations

Maki & Ramen, one of Scotland’s premier Asian hospitality brands, is seeking Kitchen Assistants for their growing team. Known for their 100% homemade noodles and authentic broths, this role is perfect for those curious about Japanese cuisine and eager to advance their culinary career.

The Role:

Support: Assist the kitchen brigade in preparing for both day and night service shifts.
Quality Control: Ensure all ingredients are prepared to the highest standard to maintain the brand’s authentic reputation.
Maintenance: Keep work areas clean and organized, following all food safety protocols.
Production: Learn the intricacies of artisanal ramen and maki preparation in a fast-paced environment.

Candidate Requirements:

Enthusiasm: A genuine curiosity for ramen and Japanese food culture.
Teamwork: The ability to work cohesively in a vibrant, high-energy kitchen.
Reliability: Consistency in maintaining quality during peak hours.
Flexibility: Willingness to work varied shifts across different Edinburgh postcodes.

Job Data Table

Category	Details
Company Name	Maki & Ramen
Locations	EH8 9EF, EH8 9BZ, EH3 9QG, EH1 3AT, EH1 3AD
Locality	Edinburgh Central / Leith / St James Quarter
Country	United Kingdom
City	Edinburgh
Region	Scotland
Job Type	Full-time & Part-time
Salaries	Hourly + Tips (£12.21 – £13.50 estimated)
Experience Level	Entry Level (Training provided)
Language	English
Benefits	Staff Meals, Tips, Family Discounts

Skills & Competency Table

Skill	Competency Level
Food Prep	Foundational / Practical
Time Management	High (Fast-paced)
Quality Control	Detail-Oriented
Hygiene Standards	Meticulous
Culinary Interest	High (Asian Cuisine Focus)

Salaries Pay Calculator Table

Pay Element	Frequency	Estimated Value	Notes
Base Hourly	Per Hour	£12.21 – £13.50	Based on 2026 market rates
Tips	Per Shift	Variable	Paid on top of base salary
Staff Meal	Per Shift	~£10.00 value	High-quality homemade food

Job Summary

Maki & Ramen is looking for high-energy Kitchen Assistants to join their diverse Edinburgh locations. This role centers on food quality and preparation, offering competitive hourly pay plus tips and staff meals. It is an excellent opportunity to enter the world of professional Japanese cooking within a famous Scottish-Asian brand.

FAQs

Are they currently hiring?

As of February 2026, some locations may be at capacity (“not taking in any applicants”). However, they encourage keeping an eye on their social media and website for immediate openings due to their rapid growth.

Where in Edinburgh are the restaurants?

They have hubs in West Richmond St, Nicolson St, Fountainbridge, Leith St, and the St James Quarter.

What is the “vibe” of the kitchen?

The kitchen is fast-paced and focuses heavily on authentic, homemade quality. Staff reviews highlight a fun working environment and great team meals.

Is there a specific person to contact?

Yes, applications (CV and Cover Letter) should be directed to hanna@makiramen.com.

Can I work in Glasgow instead?

Yes, but you must apply specifically to the Glasgow job advertisement for their Bath St or Renfield St locations.

Expert Analysis

Maki & Ramen has successfully positioned itself as a “bridge” between casual dining and authentic craft. For a Kitchen Assistant, this means you aren’t just opening bags; you are part of a production line that values homemade broth and noodles. In the competitive 2026 Edinburgh hospitality market, the inclusion of “Tips on top” is a significant perk that can raise your effective hourly rate by £1–£3.

Location & Logistics Guide

With five locations across the city, you have high flexibility. The St James Quarter (EH1 3AD) branch is the highest footfall area, while Nicolson St (EH8 9BZ) attracts a large student crowd. All locations are central and easily accessible via the Edinburgh Tram network or Lothian Buses.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edinburgh

Career Path

Kitchen Assistants at Maki & Ramen often progress into Commis Chef or Sushi Chef roles. The brand is known for promoting internally, and gaining experience with high-volume, authentic Japanese prep is a valuable asset for any culinary professional in Scotland’s thriving international food scene.

To apply for this job please visit www.makiramen.com.