Cook – Job Description

Location: Company: Region Food & Bar
Position Type: Full-Time / Part-Time

Position Summary

The Cook at Region Food & Bar plays a key role in the daily operations of our prepared foods, deli, and hot table divisions. Reporting to the Store Manager, the Cook is responsible for preparing, cooking, and presenting high-quality meals in accordance with company recipes, portion standards, and food safety guidelines.

This role demands attention to detail, consistency, and a passion for creating fresh, flavourful food that reflects Region's commitment to excellence. The Cook will ensure efficient kitchen operations by maintaining organization, cleanliness, and communication with team members. The position requires the ability to work under pressure while maintaining professionalism, food safety, and quality control.

Key Responsibilities

1. Food Preparation & Cooking

- Prepare, season, cook, and plate menu items according to established recipes, portion standards, and presentation guidelines.
- Execute all menu offerings, including soups, hot entrées, pastas, sauces, side dishes, and specialty items.
- Operate kitchen equipment such as ovens, grills, fryers, steamers, and mixers safely and efficiently.
- Ensure consistency in taste, texture, and presentation for every dish prepared.
- Follow recipe cards and daily prep sheets to ensure product quality and portion control.
- Monitor food preparation to minimize waste and control food costs.
- Adapt to changing menu items or specials as directed by management or culinary leadership.
- Support the development of new recipes and assist in testing recent menu offerings.

2. Workstation Setup & Organization

- Set up and stock all workstations with necessary ingredients, tools, and equipment before each shift.
- Verify that all ingredients are fresh, properly labeled, and stored according to FIFO (First In, First Out) standards.
- Maintain an organized and efficient workstation throughout the day to ensure a seamless workflow.
- Assist in end-of-day breakdown, storage, and cleaning of all kitchen stations.

3. Quality Control & Food Safety

- Ensure all food is handled and prepared according to Ontario Food Premises Regulations and Region Food & Bar's food safety standards.
- Monitor internal food temperatures and ensure hot and cold holding procedures are followed.




- Check all products for freshness and discard expired or compromised ingredients.
- Maintain cleanliness of kitchen surfaces, tools, and equipment throughout shifts.
- Wash hands frequently and change gloves as required when handling different food items.
- Participate in food safety audits, inspections, and follow-up actions as directed by management.

4. Inventory & Supply Management

- Track ingredient usage and report shortages, damaged stock, or quality issues to the Head Chef or Restaurant Manager.
- Assist in receiving, inspecting, and organizing incoming food and supply deliveries.
- Ensure proper storage of perishable and non-perishable items according to established standards.
- Minimize waste by adhering to proper portioning and inventory control procedures.
- Maintain accurate records of ingredient preparation and daily production logs.

5. Collaboration & Team Support

- Work collaboratively with kitchen staff, deli associates, and management to meet production goals.
- Support and mentor junior kitchen staff (such as kitchen helpers or prep cooks) in performing daily duties.
- Maintain open communication with the front-of-house team to ensure smooth service and timely food delivery.
- Uphold a positive and respectful attitude with all team members, contributing to a healthy workplace culture.

6. Equipment Use & Maintenance

- Operate kitchen equipment (grills, ovens, fryers, food processors, mixers, slicers) safely and only after proper training.
- Clean, inspect, and maintain equipment regularly to ensure it remains in safe working condition.
- Report any equipment issues, malfunctions, or maintenance needs immediately.
- Follow manufacturer and company guidelines for operating and cleaning kitchen machinery.

7. Health, Safety & Sanitation

- Comply with all Health and Safety, AODA, and Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) requirements.
- Maintain safe and sanitary kitchen conditions, ensuring compliance with both company and provincial standards.




- Dispose of waste and recyclables properly and ensure kitchen areas remain hazard-free.
- Maintain personal hygiene standards and adhere to uniform and grooming policies.
- Ensure that all cleaning duties (floors, surfaces, utensils, and storage areas) are completed daily.

8. Professionalism & Customer Experience

- Represent Region Food & Bar in a professional and courteous manner at all times.
- Take pride in the presentation of all menu items and products offered in-store.
- Contribute to the positive reputation of the store by upholding the highest culinary and service standards.
- Remain calm and efficient during busy periods and unexpected challenges.

Qualifications

Education:

- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Culinary diploma, certificate, or equivalent training is considered a strong asset.

Experience:

- Minimum 2 years of experience in a professional kitchen or grocery prepared foods department.
- Experience in both hot and cold food preparation required.
- Previous experience in a fast-paced grocery or retail food environment is an asset.

Skills & Competencies:

- Knowledge of cooking methods, food preparation techniques, and kitchen best practices.
- Strong understanding of food safety, sanitation, and safe food handling procedures.
- Ability to multitask, prioritize, and maintain efficiency during high-volume service periods.
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
- Attention to detail, organization, and commitment to consistency and quality.
- Time management and the ability to work independently or as part of a team.
- Adaptability to changing priorities or menu updates.

Physical Requirements

- Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift for long periods of time.
- Ability to lift, carry, or move up to 50 lbs regularly.
- Comfortable working in hot and fast-paced environments.
- Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination for handling kitchen tools and equipment safely.

Please Note…All other duties as assigned; employees may be required to assist in other departments as operationally necessary.

Region Food & Bar is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive and respectful workplace for all team members.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $20.00-$22.00 per hour

Benefits:

- Discounted or free food
- On-site parking
- Paid time off

Language:

- English (required)

Work Location: In person

📌 Cook (Toronto)
🏢 Region Food & Bar
📍 Toronto