Prep Cook

At Chama Mama, we do more than serve food—we create memorable experiences through hospitality, culture, wine, and genuine human connection.

Inspired by the rich traditions of Georgia, the birthplace of wine, we bring authentic Georgian cuisine to New York City with a modern approach while preserving centuries-old culinary traditions. Every detail of our restaurants reflects our commitment to exceptional hospitality, from our custom-built clay ovens that bake fresh Georgian bread daily to one of the country's most extensive collections of natural Georgian wines.

Today, Chama Mama continues to grow across New York City through multiple restaurant locations, catering services, a centralized Culinary Lab, and bakery operations. As we expand, we are looking for passionate hospitality professionals who believe that a guest is a gift from God and who want to build meaningful careers while creating unforgettable guest experiences.

As a Prep Cook, you are an essential part of the Chama Mama culinary team. You understand that exceptional food begins long before it reaches the guest's table. Your attention to detail, consistency, organization, and commitment to quality help bring authentic Georgian flavors to life every day.

You are reliable, hardworking, organized, and passionate about food preparation. You take pride in maintaining high culinary standards, following recipes accurately, and supporting your teammates in a fast-paced kitchen environment.

You believe that teamwork, preparation, and consistency are the foundation of an exceptional dining experience.

Deliver Quality Food Preparation

• Wash, peel, chop, cut, and prepare vegetables, proteins, sauces, and other ingredients according to Chama Mama's standardized recipes.
• Follow daily prep lists and production schedules accurately to support kitchen operations and service needs.
• Measure, portion, and mix ingredients while maintaining recipe consistency, quality, and presentation standards.
• Prepare sauces, garnishes, batches, and other components required for lunch and dinner service.
• Maintain consistency in food preparation while respecting traditional Georgian culinary techniques and recipes.
• Ensure all ingredients meet Chama Mama's freshness, quality, and preparation standards.

Maintain Food Safety & Sanitation Standards

• Properly label, date, rotate, and store all food products following FIFO procedures and Chama Mama's food safety guidelines.
• Follow all NYC Department of Health regulations and company sanitation procedures.
• Maintain proper food temperatures, complete required temperature logs, and follow safe food handling practices.
• Prevent cross-contamination by following proper food storage, allergen management, and preparation procedures.
• Maintain clean and sanitized cutting boards, prep stations, kitchen equipment, and storage areas.
• Follow proper handwashing, personal hygiene, and workplace safety standards.
• Handle knives, sharp tools, and kitchen equipment safely and responsibly.

Maintain an Organized & Efficient Kitchen

• Keep prep stations clean, organized, stocked, and ready for daily production.
• Safely operate kitchen equipment, including mixers, slicers, ovens, and food processors.
• Complete assigned prep tasks within established production timelines.
• Properly clean and maintain kitchen equipment and communicate maintenance concerns to management.
• Organize ingredients and supplies to support efficient kitchen workflow.
• Maintain an orderly workspace throughout the shift and complete assigned opening and closing responsibilities.

Support Inventory & Cost Control

• Assist with receiving deliveries, verifying quantities, inspecting product quality, and ensuring proper storage.
• Monitor ingredient levels and promptly communicate shortages or quality concerns to the Kitchen Manager.
• Assist with inventory counts and maintain accurate production and waste records.
• Follow proper portioning and recipe specifications to minimize food waste and maintain consistency.
• Identify and communicate overproduction, spoilage, or unnecessary waste to kitchen management.
• Support efficient use of ingredients and kitchen supplies while maintaining Chama Mama's quality standards.

Support Seamless Kitchen Operations

• Work closely with the Kitchen Manager (KM), Assistant Kitchen Manager (AKM), line cooks, and other culinary team members.
• Ensure all assigned preparation tasks are completed accurately and on time for lunch and dinner service.
• Communicate proactively regarding prep progress, ingredient availability, and production needs.
• Support line cooks and other kitchen stations during busy service periods when needed.
• Follow daily production priorities and adjust tasks based on kitchen operational needs.
• Contribute to a positive, respectful, and collaborative work environment.
• Demonstrate flexibility and a team-first mindset while supporting Chama Mama's culinary standards.

• Previous experience as a Prep Cook or in a professional restaurant kitchen preferred.
• Basic knowledge of food preparation techniques, kitchen equipment, and culinary operations.
• Ability to follow standardized recipes, prep lists, and production schedules accurately.
• Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and proper food handling practices.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, high-volume kitchen environment.
• Good communication skills and willingness to collaborate with teammates.
• Strong time management skills and the ability to prioritize assigned tasks.
• Reliability, punctuality, and a positive attitude.
• Willingness to learn Georgian culinary traditions and Chama Mama's preparation standards.
• Food Protection Certificate where required.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and occasionally lift up to 50 pounds.
• Flexible availability, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

At Chama Mama, we believe our people are our greatest investment. We are committed to helping every team member grow personally and professionally.

As a Prep Cook, you'll enjoy:

• Competitive hourly pay.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with company matching.
• Employee dining discounts.
• Ongoing culinary and food safety training.
• Professional development and opportunities for career growth within our expanding restaurant group.
• The opportunity to learn authentic Georgian cooking techniques and culinary traditions.
• A supportive, collaborative, and culturally diverse work environment.
• The opportunity to be part of one of New York City's leading Georgian hospitality brands.

At Chama Mama, every team member lives by a few simple beliefs:

• A Guest Is a Gift from God.
• We Are Cultural Guardians.
• Hospitality Begins with Our Team.
• Lead by Example.
• Never Stop Growing.

Joining Chama Mama means becoming part of a growing hospitality company with a clear vision for the future. We are building more than restaurants—we are building careers, preserving Georgian culture, and creating unforgettable experiences for our guests every day.

As a Prep Cook, your work is the foundation of every exceptional dish we serve. Your dedication, precision, and passion for food help us deliver the authentic flavors and hospitality that define Chama Mama.

If you're passionate about cooking, take pride in quality and consistency, and want to develop your culinary skills with a team that values its people, we'd love to meet you.

Grow with Chama Mama. Prepare with Purpose. Inspire Through Food.

Chama Mama is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone has the opportunity to grow and succeed.