Experienced Line Cook

Pastaria by Niche is a cornerstone of the St. Louis culinary scene, widely recognized for its authentic Italian fare crafted with dedication and precision. Owned and operated by Niche Food Group, a prestigious multi-concept restaurant organization founded by Missouri's first James Beard Award-winning chef Gerard Craft, Pastaria has cultivated a reputation for innovation blended with tradition. Since its inception, Niche Food Group has expanded from a single restaurant to a celebrated collective that includes a variety of dining experiences, from approachable Italian and French bistro fare to wood-fired pizza and modern speakeasy cocktails. This group places a strong emphasis on hospitality, craftsmanship, and the development of its people, offering an environment where culinary professionals can thrive and grow their careers.

Pastaria's kitchen environment is energetic and dynamic, especially during peak dinner service hours when the team collaborates to deliver exceptional dishes rapidly and consistently. The restaurant values precision, speed, and consistency, ensuring every dish meets the highest standards. Working at Pastaria means becoming part of a team that respects endurance, mental sharpness, and a genuine passion for the hustle and bustle of a high-volume kitchen.

The role of Drops, or the lead pasta station cook, is perhaps the most challenging and coveted position within Pastaria's kitchen brigade. This position serves as the anchor of the line during dinner service, responsible for executing a high volume of pasta dishes with meticulous attention to detail. The successful candidate must excel at managing the pressures of a fast-paced kitchen and maintaining performance even during the busiest rushes. This full-time position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $22 to $24 per hour, with shifts beginning at 2:00 PM and ending at 10:00 PM, designed to support a balanced work-life rhythm while enabling focused service output.

As the Drops cook, you will be expected to bring expertise and leadership to the pasta station, setting the tone for quality and speed on the line. Pastaria values those who can hit the ground running, with experience in high-volume kitchen settings being essential. Prior pasta station experience or leadership on the line is a strong advantage, though the restaurant also highly values attitude and potential. The environment demands not only technical expertise but also stamina and a positive, team-oriented mindset.

In addition to a thriving work atmosphere, Pastaria and Niche Food Group provide a comprehensive benefit package to their staff. This includes health, dental, and vision insurance available after 60 days of employment, 401(k) retirement plans with employer match to secure your financial future, paid vacation, mental health counseling resources to support well-being, a uniform provision, and employee discounts at all restaurants within the group. This role offers real opportunities for growth within the larger organization, recognizing and rewarding dedication and excellence. Working at Pastaria means being part of a supportive team where craft and hospitality are valued equally, and where every team member plays a vital role in delivering extraordinary dining experiences.