Fine-Dining Garde Manger Chef: Cold Prep & Plating

SWRG INC; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 30,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

401(k) with Company Match

Paid Time Off

Career Growth Opportunities

Job summary

Smith & Wollensky is seeking a Garde Manger / Pantry Cook in Chicago to prepare cold station items with precision and plating finesse. You will mise en place for service, maintain proper labeling and storage, and assemble salads, seafood towers, and hors d’oeuvres.

Culinarian teamwork is essential in a fast-paced, fine-dining kitchen. The role requires 1–2 years in upscale dining, excellent knife skills, and the ability to follow detailed recipes under pressure.

Qualifications

• Minimum 1–2 years of kitchen experience, preferably in upscale or fine-dining restaurants.
• Strong knife skills and understanding of cold prep techniques, including emulsions, dressings, charcuterie, and plating aesthetics.
• Ability to follow detailed recipes and plating guides under pressure.
• Food Handler’s Certification (City of Chicago) required.

Responsibilities

• Execute all cold and pantry items according to Smith & Wollensky recipes, specifications, and presentation standards.
• Prepare mise en place for service, ensuring freshness, quality, and consistency throughout the shift.
• Maintain proper labeling, rotation, and storage of ingredients in compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Assemble composed salads, seafood towers, tartares, and cold hors d’oeuvres during service.
• Assist with banquets, private dining, and special event plating as required.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the garde manger station, walk-ins, and coolers.
• Collaborate with the line cooks and chefs to ensure smooth service flow and timing of courses.
• Uphold all sanitation and safety standards as mandated by the City of Chicago and Smith & Wollensky policies.

Skills

Knife skills

Cold prep techniques

Plating aesthetics

Attention to detail

Team communication

Education

Food Handler’s Certification (City of Chicago)

Job description

Smith & Wollensky is seeking a Garde Manger / Pantry Cook in Chicago to prepare cold station items with precision and plating finesse. You will mise en place for service, maintain proper labeling and storage, and assemble salads, seafood towers, and hors d’oeuvres.

Culinarian teamwork is essential in a fast-paced, fine-dining kitchen. The role requires 1–2 years in upscale dining, excellent knife skills, and the ability to follow detailed recipes under pressure.