Job Description

At Dakar, we embody Teranga—the Senegalese spirit of warmth, hospitality, and exceptional service. We create a memorable experience through soulful West African cuisine and a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere. West African cuisine is rich with history, flavor, and heart—and we’re honored to share its story with every guest.

Position: Prep Cook
We are seeking a dedicated Prep Cook to work alongside our Sous Chef in executing thoughtful, precise preparation that upholds the integrity of our cuisine. This role requires a strong attention to detail, a commitment to consistency, and a passion for culinary craftsmanship. The Prep Cook reports directly to the Sous Chef and plays a vital role in ensuring the highest standards of quality in every dish.

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum 3 years of professional restaurant experience
• Strong attention to detail and a passion for culinary technique
• Ability to thrive in a collaborative, high-energy kitchen environment
• Ability to follow directions and accurately execute recipes as written
• Ability to adapt to kitchen needs; flexible with producing pastry as well as savory items
• Open to learning new techniques and working with unfamiliar food items

Attire:

• Black non-slip kitchen shoes and black pants (no jeans)
• Hair must be pulled back and covered at all times
• Natural nails that are kept short, clean, and free from polish
• No hanging jewelry; stud earrings and wedding bands are permitted
• Makeup kept to a minimum

Equipment:

• Bring a personal set of professional kitchen knives and maintain them in proper working condition (clean and sharpened) 

About You:

• Reliable and supportive; attendance and punctuality is high priority
• Keeps a positive attitude in high stress situations with strong problem-solving skills
• Works expeditiously while maintaining quality; adaptable to varying deadline-driven needs
• Maintains high expectations for self; a continual learner that is always seeking growth

To apply for this position, serious candidates only:

Please upload your resume and a cover letter including why you want to work at Dakar NOLA. Applicants without a cover letter will not be considered.

About Dakar NOLA
Dakar NOLA is a modern Senegalese tasting-menu restaurant in New Orleans, founded by Chef Serigne Mbaye and Effie Richardson, offering a seasonal, pescatarian menu that bridges the flavors of Senegal and the Gulf South. Since opening in late 2022, Dakar NOLA has earned earning Dakar NOLA global acclaim as No.6 in North America's 50 Best Restaurants 2025 and The Best Restaurant in South USA, and national acclaim, recognized as Eater’s All-Time 38 Most Essential and Influential Restaurants in America in the past 20 years, the 2024 James Beard Award for ‘Best New Restaurant’, Bon Appétit’s The 24 Best New Restaurants’, Esquire’s ‘The 50 Best New Restaurants in America’, and USA Today’s ‘Restaurants of the Year’. Chef Mbaye, a two-time James Beard nominee and TIME 100 Next honoree, brings Michelin-starred training and deep cultural storytelling to each course, setting Dakar apart with a distinctive focus on the spirit of teranga—Senegal’s tradition of warm, generous hospitality that makes every guest feel welcome. For more information about Dakar NOLA, visit dakarnola.com

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