Cook

About Karakoram Restaurant

Karakoram Restaurant specializes in Authentic Pakistani Food, featuring diverse flavors influenced by regions such as Lahore and Peshawar. The establishment prides itself on serving dishes like succulent Karahi and aromatic protein recipes made with traditional spices, showcasing the richness of Pakistani culinary traditions from royal kitchens to homestyle classics. The focus is on delivering an authentic dining journey with quality ingredients and memorable experiences for every patron.

Role Overview

The Cook will be responsible for expertly preparing and cooking authentic Pakistani dishes including meats, curries, rice, and traditional side dishes following precise recipes and quality standards. Daily work encompasses seasoning, marinating, food preparation, operating kitchen equipment, and overseeing cooking times and temperatures to ensure consistent quality in flavor and presentation. Maintaining a clean and safe kitchen environment and assisting with inventory management are essential. The position requires collaboration with the kitchen team to handle orders efficiently during peak periods and is based full-time onsite in Vancouver, BC.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare complete meals and individual dishes such as karahi, biryani, kebabs, BBQ, curries, naan, rice, and other Pakistani, Indian, and international recipes according to restaurant standards.
• Handle ingredient preparation including cutting, marinating, seasoning, portioning, and storing meats, seafood, poultry, vegetables, and other food products.
• Support specialty dish preparation and accommodate dietary requirements or special requests under guidance of head chefs or supervisors.
• Assist in cooking large-volume catering orders for banquets, weddings, corporate events, and buffets.
• Operate and maintain various kitchen stations including karahi, grill, tandoor, curry, fry, and prep areas.
• Supervise kitchen helpers ensuring proper food preparation, cleanliness, stocking, and safe handling.
• Manage kitchen operations during shifts to assure timely food service and maintain quality standards.
• Monitor portion sizes, presentation, and consistency to meet restaurant requirements.
• Maintain inventory records and help with receiving, storing, rotating, and tracking food and kitchen supplies.
• Estimate food requirements, assist with portion control, and aim to reduce food costs and waste.
• Report stock shortages or equipment needs promptly to management.
• Train and mentor new kitchen staff on recipes, preparation techniques, sanitation, and safety rules.
• Ensure cleanliness and sanitation of kitchen areas and equipment before, during, and after service.
• Strictly comply with all food safety, hygiene, and workplace safety regulations including proper labeling, storage, and temperature control.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Proven experience with Pakistani or South Asian cuisine preparation, adept with meats, spices, and traditional cooking methods.
• Strong understanding of food safety standards, hygiene, and sanitary kitchen practices including correct food storage and handling.
• Ability to follow detailed recipes and manage cooking multiple dishes simultaneously with consistent flavor, portions, and plating.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills to operate efficiently in a fast-paced kitchen and coordinate with team members.
• Effective communication ability to work with chefs, servers, management and handle special dietary needs.
• Previous restaurant experience as a Cook or Line Cook preferred; formal culinary training or certification is an advantage.
• Availability to work flexible shifts including evenings, weekends, and holidays as per restaurant scheduling.
• Capable of standing for long periods, lifting moderate weights, and performing repetitive tasks safely.