LOTA Indian Restaurant
245 Bush River Road, Columbia, SC
Pay
$15–$20 per hour (based on experience)
Job Type
- Full-Time (Preferred)
- Part-Time
Schedule
Wednesday – Monday (Closed Tuesday)
- Lunch: 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM
- Dinner: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Full-time candidates are preferred.
About LOTA
LOTA is a modern Indian restaurant in Columbia, South Carolina, dedicated to delivering authentic flavors, exceptional hospitality, and high-quality dining experiences. We are growing our kitchen team and looking for someone who is passionate about cooking and eager to learn from an experienced Head Chef.
Whether you already have experience with Indian cuisine or are excited to learn, we welcome hardworking individuals who are committed to developing their culinary skills.
Position Overview
We are seeking a dependable and motivated Line Cook / Assistant Chef to work alongside our Head Chef in preparing authentic Indian cuisine.
This position is ideal for someone who enjoys cooking, works well in a fast-paced kitchen, and is eager to expand their culinary knowledge. Previous experience cooking Indian food is a plus, but we are willing to train the right candidate who has a strong work ethic, positive attitude, and willingness to learn.
Responsibilities
- Prepare ingredients for daily service, including chopping vegetables, preparing meats, sauces, and spices.
- Assist the Head Chef with preparing authentic Indian dishes.
- Cook menu items according to recipes and presentation standards.
- Learn Indian cooking techniques, spices, and traditional recipes.
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen.
- Follow food safety and sanitation standards.
- Monitor food quality and freshness.
- Assist with inventory and stock rotation.
- Receive and organize deliveries.
- Work efficiently during busy lunch and dinner service.
- Assist with opening and closing kitchen duties.
- Support the kitchen team wherever needed.
Qualifications
We are looking for someone who:
- Has previous experience working in a commercial kitchen (preferred)
- Has experience cooking any cuisine (Indian cuisine is a plus)
- Is interested in learning Indian cooking techniques and recipes
- Can work in a fast-paced environment
- Is dependable, punctual, and a strong team player
- Has a positive attitude and willingness to learn
- Can follow recipes and instructions accurately
- Can lift up to 50 pounds
- Can stand for extended periods
Preferred Experience
- Indian cuisine
- Pakistani cuisine
- Nepalese cuisine
- Bangladeshi cuisine
- Middle Eastern cuisine
- Asian cuisine
- Tandoor cooking (a plus but not required)
- Curry preparation
- Grill cooking
- Restaurant kitchen experience
What We're Looking For
The ideal candidate is someone who:
- Loves cooking
- Takes pride in preparing quality food
- Is eager to learn authentic Indian cuisine
- Works well under the guidance of an experienced Head Chef
- Wants to build a long-term career in the restaurant industry
Compensation & Benefits
- $15–$20 per hour, based on experience
- Paid training
- Employee meal during shifts
- Opportunity to learn authentic Indian cuisine
- Growth opportunities within the restaurant
- Friendly and supportive team environment
How to Apply
Please include:
- A brief introduction about yourself
- Your cooking experience
- Types of cuisines you have prepared
- Your availability
- Your earliest start date
Pay: $15.00 - $20.00 per hour
Work Location: In person