Chai Pani is coming to one of D.C.’s most vibrant neighborhoods - Union Market - and we’re building a passionate team to bring it to life!
In India, chai pani is slang for “going out for a cup of tea, a snack, or a little something.” For us, it means vibrant, joyful, delicious Indian street food paired with heartfelt hospitality — a place where people connect, celebrate, and feel taken care of.
We’ve been recognized with seven James Beard nominations, and in 2022, Chai Pani Asheville won Outstanding Restaurant. We've been featured in The New York Times, Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and even landed on Oprah’s Favorite Things. But accolades don’t matter if the experience we offer doesn’t feel warm, genuine, and grounded. That’s where you come in.
We’re hiring Prep Cooks to help us build something truly special in D.C.
Position Summary: As a Prep Cook, you are the foundation of every service — making sure the ingredients, flavors, and systems are dialed in before a single guest walks through the door. Your work behind the scenes makes everything possible up front. This is a role for someone who finds satisfaction in structure, rhythm, and teamwork — and who takes pride in knowing they help set up the whole team up for success.
What we this role offers:
The chance to work with a James Beard Award–winning restaurant group and Chef
Flexibility, camaraderie, and a culture where your voice matters
Growth, mentorship, and a community that values excellence and care
A supportive environment where details matter
What you offer:
A growth mindset, and a commitment to upholding a culture of excellence, love and care
A team-first attitude and a drive to go above and beyond for guests and coworkers alike
A love of learning and willingness to contribute to a culture of feedback in the pursuit of excellence
Attention to detail and respect for systems
Benefits:
Medical, dental, vision, disability, dependent care FSA, and supplemental life insurance (full-time team members)
Company paid life insurance (full and part-time team members)
Flexible work schedules
Paid sick days
Free shift meals
Employee discount on merch, Spicewalla products, and all of our other restaurant locations in Asheville, Charlotte & Atlanta
Cash advance program
Opportunity to apply to annual staff trip to India after 1 year of employment
Giving back is at the heart of Chai Pani's mission. We make a difference when and where we can - from our partnership with an educational non-profit in Mumbai; to feeding the homeless with dignity in our communities; and within our own walls, offering competitive pay, schedules, and benefits that support work-life harmony. We hope you’ll join our team and be a difference-maker too.
Apply to job here:Show Job