Kitchen Assistant

Front of House Café and Kitchen Assistant

Introduction

Welcome to Marie's Lapis Cafe, a culinary home dedicated to preserving and celebrating the vibrant, complex flavors of Peranakan heritage. We take pride in crafting traditional dishes from scratch, using time-honored recipes and fresh ingredients. Our kitchen is a bustling, passionate environment where respect for the cuisine and teamwork are essential. We are looking for a dedicated Kitchen Assistant to join our family and help us deliver an authentic and unforgettable dining experience.

The Opportunity:
This is more than just a kitchen job. It's an immersion into the world of Peranakan cooking. As a Kitchen Assistant, you will be the crucial support to our chefs, learning the foundations of this unique cuisine. You will gain hands-on experience with traditional preparation techniques, exotic ingredients, and the meticulous care that goes into every rempah, curry, and kueh. Ideal for someone with a strong work ethic, a passion for food, and a desire to learn a specialized craft.

Key Responsibilities:

• Mise en Place & Preparation:

• Wash, peel, chop, and portion a wide variety of vegetables, herbs, and proteins as directed.

• Assist in the preparation of key Peranakan bases, such as grinding rempah (spice paste) using the batu lesung (granite mortar and pestle) or food processor.
• Prepare basic ingredients for dishes like Sambal Belacan, Assam sauces, and coconut milk mixtures.
• Assist in the preparation of components for kuehs and desserts.

• Kitchen Support & Maintenance:

• Maintain impeccable cleanliness and sanitation standards in all work areas, following health and safety guidelines.

• Wash, sanitize, and organize kitchen utensils, equipment, and workstations.
• Properly store ingredients, label dated items, and assist with stock rotation (FIFO).
• Handle and dispose of kitchen waste appropriately.
• Assist with receiving and storing deliveries.

• Service Support:

• Support chefs during service by fetching ingredients, plating simple elements, and ensuring the pass area is clean and stocked.

• Monitor and restock kitchen line supplies.

• Teamwork & Learning:

• Work collaboratively and respectfully with all kitchen and front-of-house staff.

• Follow instructions precisely and ask clarifying questions to ensure accuracy.
• Demonstrate a willingness to learn about Peranakan ingredients, cooking techniques, and dish names.

Who You Are:

• No prior professional kitchen experience required, but a genuine interest in food and cooking is essential.
• A strong, reliable team player with a positive, can-do attitude.
• Ability to work efficiently and calmly in a fast-paced, hot, and busy environment.
• Excellent time management and the ability to prioritize tasks.
• High standards of personal hygiene and cleanliness.
• Physically able to stand for long periods, lift heavy pots (up to 25kg), and perform repetitive tasks.
• A keen learner with a respectful attitude towards traditional cuisine and methods.
• Previous exposure to or passion for Asian cuisines is a significant plus.
• Food Safety Certification is a plus, but training can be provided.

What We Offer:

• A competitive wage.
• The unique opportunity to receive informal training in the art of Peranakan cooking.
• A friendly, supportive, and passionate team environment.
• Staff meals during shifts.
• Potential for growth within the cafe for motivated individuals.