Garde Manger/Pantry Cook- Chicago

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

The Garde Manger / Pantry Cook is responsible for the preparation and presentation of all cold station menu items, including salads, composed appetizers, chilled seafood, and plated desserts. This position requires exceptional attention to detail, speed, cleanliness, and a strong sense of plate presentation consistent with Smith & Wollensky’s fine-dining standards.Key ResponsibilitiesExecute 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.Communicate product needs, low inventory, or quality issues to the Chef or Sous Chef promptly.Support culinary team members as needed and contribute to a positive, professional kitchen culture.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.Excellent sense of timing, organization, and cleanliness.Food Handler’s Certification (City of Chicago) required.Must be able to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs.Team-oriented with strong communication and reliability.Schedule & Work EnvironmentTypical schedule includes evenings, weekends, and holidays. Fast-paced, high-volume fine-dining environment requiring precision and composure during peak service.BENEFITS:Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance401(k) with Company MatchPaid Time OffCareer Growth OpportunitiesSmith & Wollensky participates in the federal E-Verify program to confirm employment eligibility of all new hires. E-Verify is an online system that allows companies to determine the eligibility of their employees to work in the United States. All new hires will be required to complete Form I-9 and successfully participate in the E-Verify process.