Pastry Cook | Line cook

At MIKA Coral Gables by Michael White, we are committed to delivering exceptional Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with precision, creativity, and genuine hospitality. The Pastry Cook / Line Cook is responsible for preparing and executing high-quality desserts and savory menu items while maintaining the highest culinary standards, cleanliness, organization, and consistency.

This position requires passion for hospitality, attention to detail, strong technical skills, and the ability to perform efficiently in a fast-paced fine dining environment.

Essential Responsibilities

Food Preparation

• Prepare menu items according to Chef Michael White's recipes, specifications, and presentation standards.
• Execute assigned station with consistency during lunch and dinner service.
• Produce desserts, pastries, breads, ice creams, sorbets, creams, sauces, garnishes, and baked goods when assigned to pastry.
• Prepare proteins, vegetables, pasta, sauces, and mise en place when assigned to hot or cold line stations.
• Ensure all products are fresh, properly labeled, rotated, and stored.

Mise en Place

• Complete all daily prep lists before service.
• Maintain adequate mise en place throughout service.
• Communicate shortages to the Chef immediately.
• Assist with production for banquets, private events, and special menus.

Service Execution

• Prepare dishes with speed, accuracy, and consistency.
• Follow plating guides and portion standards.
• Maintain organization and cleanliness throughout service.
• Work collaboratively with all kitchen stations to ensure timely execution of orders.

Quality Standards

• Maintain exceptional food quality and presentation.
• Taste and inspect food before service.
• Ensure all products meet MIKA's quality standards.
• Minimize waste while maintaining proper portion control.

Sanitation & Safety

• Follow all health department regulations and food safety procedures.
• Maintain a clean, organized workstation at all times.
• Properly clean and sanitize equipment and work surfaces.
• Practice proper food handling and temperature control procedures.
• Report unsafe conditions immediately.

Teamwork

• Support fellow cooks and kitchen staff during service.
• Maintain a professional attitude under pressure.
• Communicate respectfully and effectively with all team members.
• Participate in daily lineups and culinary training.

Qualifications

• Minimum 1–2 years of culinary experience in an upscale or fine dining restaurant preferred.
• Pastry experience preferred for pastry station assignments.
• Culinary school education is a plus but not required.
• Strong knife skills and knowledge of culinary techniques.
• Understanding of baking and pastry fundamentals (for pastry station).
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to follow recipes precisely.
• Positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to bend, reach, stoop, and climb safely.
• Comfortable working in hot kitchen environments.
• Manual dexterity to operate kitchen equipment safely.

Knowledge & Skills

• Fine dining execution
• Food safety and sanitation
• Knife skills
• Time management
• Organization
• Team collaboration
• Quality control
• Recipe execution
• Plating techniques
• Ability to work efficiently under pressure

Work Environment

• Fast-paced fine dining kitchen
• Exposure to heat, steam, sharp tools, and commercial kitchen equipment
• Evening, weekend, and holiday availability required

MIKA Core Values

Every team member is expected to embody the values that define MIKA Coral Gables by Michael White:

• Hospitality First – Every guest interaction matters.
• Excellence Without Compromise – We pursue perfection in every detail.
• Respect – We treat guests and colleagues with professionalism and kindness.
• Teamwork – Success is built together.
• Integrity – We do the right thing, even when no one is watching.
• Continuous Improvement – We learn, grow, and strive to be better every day.

Benefits

Eligible team members may receive:

• Competitive compensation
• Dining discounts
• Career growth opportunities
• Ongoing culinary training and development
• Paid Time Off (where applicable)
• Health, dental, and vision benefits (for eligible employees)

MIKA Coral Gables by Michael White is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where every employee is respected and valued.