WHO WE ARE
Dear Mama is a love letter to the women and communities who raised us, and to the spirit of care that holds people together. The cafe and our approach to hospitality is inspired by the generations of women who have collectively shaped us, and the larger village that raised us as native New Yorkers in multigenerational neighborhoods with extended family, neighbors, and chosen kin who taught us what it means to show up, feed people, and lead with love.
We are looking for a Line Cook to contribute to our soulful hospitality, and work with us to continue to elevate our coffee and bar program curated by owner Zach Sharaga, who was the founder of NYT-acclaimed of the jazz bar Louis 649, and co-owner of MACE, recognized as one of the Top 50 Cocktail Bars in the World. The cafe is nestled amongst the Columbia University buildings of its Manhattanville campus, and we are proud to have been part of the Harlem community for a decade this year!
JOB DETAILS
WHAT YOU’LL DO
WHO YOU ARE
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
Dear Mama NYC is an all-day cafe nestled on Columbia University’s Manhattanville Campus just 1 block from 125th stop on the 1 train. The cafe is built in a glass-walled atrium with an open kitchen for a relaxed and sun-filled atmosphere where the staff and guests feel like a family.
Our culinary team is a key component to what makes people feel at home in our space.
This role reports directly to the Beverage & Service Director and Assistant Manager.
Cooking and plating all menu items as demonstrated by the Executive Chef and Sous Chef
Stocking inventory (food product, paper goods, ceramics, cookware)
Checking-in deliveries to insure quality control and communicating needs to team in a timely manner so kitchen service is never interrupted by lack of items
Food preparation and portioning prior to and following service, and willingness to take prep & cooking only shifts at off-premise commissary kitchen
Clear, positive and professional communication with team members and guests alike
Some table service of plated dishes, as well as helping team to bus tables as needed
Light dishwashing of items used during service including frying pans, plates and utensils
Maintain and manage a clean and sanitized service station
Is independently-motivated for excellence.
Excited to be part of a growing team in a collaborative environment, but with the willingness to work independently to achieve the necessary results.
Wants to be part of the team creating and instituting best practices that will be carried across the organization as the company grows.
Believes cleanliness and culinary skills go hand-in-hand.
Is able to shift into high gear effortlessly with an enthusiasm for the unpredictable rhythm of kitchen life.
Thrives working in changing environments, with an appreciation for repetition of a daily cafe service.
Daily hours may involve early mornings or late nights, and some shifts may be at the off-premise commissary kitchen.
Ability to lift 50lbs and work on feet for extended periods of time.
Familiar with NYC nutrition and sanitation procedures and standards.
Diploma from Culinary School is preferred with ability to understand and perform classic cooking techniques.
Must hold a valid NYCDH Food Handler’s Certification.
We offer a competitive salary based on candidate’s experience. Please send an email that includes:
1. Brief introduction
a. What you love about NYC
b. What made you interested in this opportunity
2. Resume
3. Your availability for a meeting
Dear Mama NYC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law.

