Prep Cook

  • Chai Pani - Washington, DC
  • Washington, District of Columbia
  • Full Time
Required Years of Experience

1 year

Job Details

Chai Pani is coming to one of D.C.s most vibrant neighborhoods - Union Market - and were building a passionate team to bring it to life!

In India, chai pani is slang for going out for a cup of tea, a snack, or a little something. For us, it means vibrant, joyful, delicious Indian street food paired with heartfelt hospitality a place where people connect, celebrate, and feel taken care of.

Weve been recognized with seven James Beard nominations, and in 2022, Chai Pani Asheville won Outstanding Restaurant. We've been featured in The New York Times, Bon Appetit, Food & Wine, and even landed on Oprahs Favorite Things. But accolades dont matter if the experience we offer doesnt feel warm, genuine, and grounded. Thats where you come in.

Were hiring Prep Cooks to help us build something truly special in D.C.

Position Summary: As a Prep Cook, you are the foundation of every service making sure the ingredients, flavors, and systems are dialed in before a single guest walks through the door. Your work behind the scenes makes everything possible up front. This is a role for someone who finds satisfaction in structure, rhythm, and teamwork and who takes pride in knowing they help set up the whole team up for success.

What we this role offers:

  • The chance to work with a James Beard Awardwinning restaurant group and Chef
  • Flexibility, camaraderie, and a culture where your voice matters
  • Growth, mentorship, and a community that values excellence and care
  • A supportive environment where details matter

What you offer:

  • A growth mindset, and a commitment to upholding a culture of excellence, love and care
  • A team-first attitude and a drive to go above and beyond for guests and coworkers alike
  • A love of learning and willingness to contribute to a culture of feedback in the pursuit of excellence
  • Attention to detail and respect for systems

Benefits:

  • Medical, dental, vision, disability, dependent care FSA, and supplemental life insurance (full-time team members)
  • Company paid life insurance (full and part-time team members)
  • Tip-share program
  • Flexible work schedules
  • Paid sick days
  • Free shift meals
  • Employee discount on merch, Spicewalla products, and all of our other restaurant locations in Asheville, Charlotte & Atlanta
  • Cash advance program
  • Opportunity to apply to annual staff trip to India after 1 year of employment

Giving back is at the heart of Chai Pani's mission. We make a difference when and where we can - from our partnership with an educational non-profit in Mumbai; to feeding the homeless with dignity in our communities; and within our own walls, offering competitive pay, schedules, and benefits that support work-life harmony. We hope youll join our team and be a difference-maker too.

Compensation Details

Compensation: Hourly ($22.00) plus tips

Benefits & Perks: Health Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Dining Discounts

Required Skills

Ability to work in a fast paced environment

Strong Communication Skills

Adaptability to Changing Situations

Problem Solving Skills

Time Management Skills

Ability to follow instructions

Collaboration With Diverse Teams

Customer Service Orientation

Commitment to Community Service

ability to handle constructive criticism

Creativity in Food Preparation

Reliability and Punctuality

Ability to Maintain Cleanliness and Organization

Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity

Read more

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Job ID: 483951006
Originally Posted on: 7/3/2025

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