Cook 1 | Full-time | Union Hotel

Silver Hotel Group; Toronto; On-site; CAD 42,000 - 66,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

People-first environment

Growth opportunities

Wellness credits

Donation matching

Volunteer hours

Referral program

Leadership development

Stay discounts

Job summary

Silver Hotel Group is seeking a Cook 1 for its Union Hotel opening this Fall 2026 in Toronto. The role covers all kitchen operations with a focus on producing high‑quality dishes and memorable dining experiences for guests.

Ideal candidates bring 3–5 years in upscale settings, familiarity with diverse cuisines, and strong adherence to food safety standards, along with the ability to work lunch and dinner shifts, including weekends.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of upscale restaurant experience
• Preference for Kenyan, North African and Indian cuisines
• Premium restaurant experience with elevated service
• Advanced cooking techniques (Tandoor and Robata grill)
• Food Safety certification
• Red Seal preferred
• Ability to work lunch & dinner service (incl. evenings, weekends, holidays)

Responsibilities

• Lead an assigned station during service and ensure organization and efficiency.
• Coordinate station readiness and participate in food preparation.
• Prepare, cook and present high-quality dishes per recipes and standards.
• Mentor Cook 3, Cook 2 and Prep Cooks to support their development.
• Monitor ticket flow and support neighboring stations for timely service.
• Maintain consistent plating, portioning and presentation before serving.
• Prepare meals for guests with allergies and special requests following safety procedures.
• Support menu execution and banquet production with Sous Chef and Executive Chef.
• Contribute to cost control and waste reduction through planning and portion control.
• Maintain clean, safe kitchen and storage areas with proper labeling and rotation.
• Demonstrate professionalism and teamwork; serve as a positive example.
• Build collaborative relationships across hotel departments.
• Follow all safety, health, and workplace policies.

Skills

Culinary skills

Station leadership

Team mentorship

Food safety

Education

Red Seal certification

Food Safety certification

Tools

Tandoor grill

Robata grill

Job description

Why Join Us?

Inspired by Toronto’s diverse local culture, Union Hotel is an independent and boutique property offering distinct, bold and memorable hospitality in the heart of downtown. This vibrant new hotel is poised to become the gathering place to eat, drink, work and play any time of day. Situated in Toronto’s dynamic financial district, energy flows and personalities mingle in this 189‑room upper midscale property conveniently located within walking distance to all that downtown has to offer including shopping, theater, sports and culinary experiences. More than just a hotel room, we’re committed to rethinking the guest experience, breaking from convention, and offering a stay that truly stands out. At Union Hotel, we weave the best of local throughout our rooms, artwork, amenities, and food/beverage offerings, uniting guests, team members and our community on a journey to forge their own path.

We’re a hidden gem in plain sight.

We are looking for a Cook 1 to join our new restaurant opening this Fall 2026.

The ideal candidate is ready to roll up their sleeves, lead with heart, and help us build something exceptional!

Union Hotel will be hosting a Job Fair at Hotel Victoria on August 19, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Why You’ll Love Working With Us

Are you ready for your next career move? Here’s what’s in it for you:

• A people-first environment where respect, appreciation, and fun are part of the everyday
• A chance to work with passionate, like‑minded team members
• Opportunities to grow, lead, and make a real impact in a fast‑paced, global‑facing industry
• Annual Scholarship Opportunities (for you and your children)
• Annual Wellness Credits
• Donation Matching Program
• Volunteer Hour Rewards
• Team Member Referral Program
• Leadership Development
• Team Building Events
• Culture of Recognition
• Hotel Stay Discounts

Your Role

The position of Cook 1 is a versatile and flexible cook who is familiar with all areas of kitchen operations and production. They are responsible for the general production of all menu items and participate in all cooking and food preparation processes. They are focused on providing exceptional service and creating memorable dining experiences for all guests by ensuring all food items are ready on time and ensuring quality control as through strictly following recipes and production standards.

The Cook 1 Is Primarily Responsible For

• Leading an assigned station during service, ensuring it is organized, prepared and operating efficiently.
• Coordinating station readiness and participating in food preparation and production as required.
• Preparing, cooking and presenting high‑quality dishes according to established recipes, specifications and presentation standards.
• Supporting and mentoring Cook 3, Cook 2 and Prep Cooks by providing guidance, sharing culinary knowledge and encouraging their professional development.
• Monitoring ticket flow and supporting neighbouring stations to ensure timely and consistent service.
• Maintaining consistent plating, portioning and presentation standards before food leaves the kitchen.
• Preparing meals for guests with allergies, intolerances and special requests while following food safety and cross‑contamination prevention procedures.
• Supporting menu execution, special events and banquet production in collaboration with the Sous Chef and Executive Chef.
• Contributing to food cost control and waste reduction through effective production planning, portion control and proper product utilization.
• Maintaining clean, safe and organized kitchen and storage areas, including proper product rotation, labelling, handling and storage.
• Demonstrating professionalism, reliability and strong culinary skills while serving as a positive example for other team members.
• Building positive, professional and collaborative relationships with team members and departments throughout the hotel.
• Following all hotel food safety, health and safety, security and workplace policies and procedures.

What We Are Looking For...

• 3-5 years of experience in an upscale adult contemporary restaurant environment
• Preference to individuals who possess professional experience with Kenyan, North African and Indian cuisines
• Previous experience in a premium restaurant providing an elevated service
• Proven experience in advanced cooking techniques (experience with Tandoor and Robata grill preferred)
• Food Safety certification
• Red Seal certification preferred
• Ability to work lunch & dinner service (including evenings, weekends, and holidays)

This posting for an upcoming vacancy

About Us

Silver Hotel Group (SHG) is a family‑owned Canadian hotel investment, development, and management company. Our portfolio includes hotels in Canada and the U.S. and ranges from internationally branded full and select‑service hotels to independent and boutique hotels. At SHG, our culture is fundamental to our success. Each empowered team member strives to exhibit passion, creativity, and fun every day. Together, we are dedicated to delivering exceptional experiences by living our core values as our road map: Accountability, Teamwork, Leadership, Diversity, Integrity, Giving, Fun, and Recognition. As we continue to grow, our mantra “You Matter” resonates with our 600+ team members in how we do business, which will continue to enhance engagement and retention. Today, we look for new team members who demonstrate both aptitude and the passion to embrace and contribute to our Culture.

Help us build something exceptional!

The Silver Hotel Group believes in outstanding hospitality and takes seriously its obligations under the Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005. We are committed to respecting the independence and dignity of all persons by providing a barrier‑free environment for all guests, colleagues, and job applicants. Accommodations are available upon request for all applicants with a disability throughout the recruitment process. Please contact Human Resources at 905-362-9480. The Silver Hotel Group is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, or any other characteristics protected by law.