Prep Cook - Siena Tavern

Job Description

Job Description

Brought to you by DineAmic Hospitality and situated in Chicago’s River North neighborhood, Siena Tavern offers a vibrant dining experience that celebrates the flavors and traditions of modern Italian cuisine. Inspired by the rustic charm of Tuscany and the energy of contemporary Italy, Siena Tavern features house-made pastas, wood-fired specialties, and innovative cocktails in a lively, stylish atmosphere—creating a destination perfect for everything from casual gatherings to special occasions.

Siena Tavern is seeking Prep Cooks who can skillfully prepare and organize ingredients and menu components in a fast-paced, high-volume restaurant environment. This role is critical to ensuring the kitchen is properly set up for successful service by preparing ingredients, maintaining organization, and supporting food quality and consistency standards.

Essential Responsibilities + Duties

• Prepare components of all menu items following company recipes and yield guides.
• Follow prep lists and production schedules established by the Chef to meet business demands.
• Cook and prepare a variety of food using different methods of preparation, including from-scratch sauces, vinaigrettes, purees, soups, and other menu components.
• Label, date, and stock ingredients to ensure organization and accessibility.
• Measure and prepare ingredients and seasonings according to recipes and standards.
• Wash, chop, slice, and portion vegetables, meats, and other products.
• Assist with preparation of simple menu items including salads, entrees, and side dishes.
• Inspect the cleanliness and working condition of all tools, equipment, and supplies; use equipment and tools only as intended, properly, and safely.
• Ensure the kitchen, food preparation areas, and food storage areas meet sanitation regulations and safety standards.
• Take responsibility for freshness and quality by accurately labeling food, ensuring proper rotation (FIFO), and maintaining sufficient stock for assigned station.
• Collaborate effectively and remain positive and efficient in a high-energy work environment.
• Practice safe inventory handling and portion control.
• Follow all company policies, sanitation guidelines, and food safety standards.
• Additional duties as needed within the scope of the role.

Minimum Qualifications

• At least 2 years of restaurant kitchen experience required; fine dining and/or high-volume restaurant experience preferred.
• Degree from a food service program, culinary school, or equivalent experience preferred.
• Valid Food Handler Certification required.
• Flexibility to work a variety of shifts, including days, nights, weekends, and holidays.

Minimum Qualifications

• At least 3 years of restaurant kitchen experience required; fine dining and/or high-volume restaurant experience preferred.
• Degree from a food service program, culinary school, or equivalent experience preferred.
• Valid Food Handler Certification required.
• Flexibility to work a variety of shifts, including days, nights, weekends, and holidays.

Physical Demands + Work Environment:

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (up to 8+ hours per shift)
• Ability to frequently lift, push, carry, and place objects weighing up to 40 pounds without assistance.
• Continuous movement in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
• Ability to complete tasks that require repetitive motion.
• Must be able to move safely through kitchen areas, including slick floors, hot surfaces, sharp tools, and tight spaces.

Core Competencies

• Accountability
• Adaptability
• Communication Skills
• Emotional Intelligence
• Integrity
• Personal Development
• Professionalism
• Self-Management
• Teamwork and Collaboration
• Technical Proficiency with computers and POS systems

Benefits + Perks

• Paid Leave
• Paid Sick Leave
• Commuter Benefits
• 401K + Match
• Company-paid Employee Assistance Program
• Food & Beverage Discounts

DineAmic Hospitality is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status.