Shay Ristorante – Toronto
Pastry Cook
We are seeking a talented and detail-driven Pastry Cook to join the kitchen team of a new high-end Italian restaurant opening soon in one of Toronto's most prestigious neighbourhoods. This is a rare opportunity to be part of a pastry program being built from the ground up with a clear vision, quality ingredients, and a serious commitment to craft.
You will be working in an environment that values precision, creativity within structure, and the kind of pastry work that completes a dining experience rather than merely bookending it. Compensation and scheduling details will be discussed privately with candidates who advance through the process.
THE CONCEPT: A MODERN EXPRESSION OF ELEVATED ITALIAN DINING
Shay is being built as a destination where craftsmanship and genuine hospitality converge. Rooted in seasonal Italian tradition and executed with precision and contemporary sensibility, the culinary program is designed for a discerning Toronto audience.
What guests will find at Shay:
● An ingredient-driven menu grounded in Italian culinary tradition with modern technique
● A pastry program rooted in classical Italian confectionery and seasonal produce
● A dining room that embraces understated luxury and genuine hospitality
● A team committed to building something exceptional and enduring
POSITION OVERVIEW
The Pastry Cook works alongside kitchen leadership to produce the dessert and pastry program with consistency, care, and technical precision. From daily mise en place to plating during service, you will play a central role in ensuring the sweet side of the menu reflects the same standard as everything coming out of the savoury kitchen.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
Production and execution
● Produce all pastry components, desserts, and baked goods to specification and in the quantities required
● Execute plating and dessert service during dinner service with speed and precision
● Follow recipes and mise en place lists with meticulous attention to detail and consistency
● Manage your production schedule to ensure everything is ready well before service begins
● Work closely with kitchen leadership to develop and refine pastry offerings seasonally
Standards and organization
● Maintain a pastry section that is clean, organized, and operating at the highest food safety standards
● Label, date, and rotate all product correctly
● Assist with inventory management and flag any shortages or quality concerns proactively
● Contribute to a kitchen culture built around craft, accountability, and mutual respect
WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR
Required
● Minimum 2 years of professional pastry experience in a restaurant or hotel environment
● Solid grounding in classical pastry techniques including doughs, creams, mousses, and confections
● High attention to detail and consistency in both production and plating
● Ability to manage time independently and execute a production schedule without constant supervision
● Food Handler certification or willingness to obtain prior to start
● Eligibility to work in Ontario
An advantage
● Formal pastry training or culinary school background
● Experience in Italian or European fine dining with a focus on classical pastry traditions
● Familiarity with Italian confectionery including panna cotta, tiramisu, sfogliatelle, and gelato
● Experience contributing to seasonal menu development
The kind of person we are looking for
● Someone who approaches pastry with the same discipline and passion as any savoury cook
● Precise, organized, and takes real pride in the quality of what they produce
● Creative within a structured environment, able to execute a vision faithfully and contribute ideas thoughtfully
● A collaborative team member who communicates well and supports the broader kitchen
THE ENVIRONMENT
● Evening and weekend availability required; daytime production shifts also available
● A professionally run, high-standard kitchen that values craft and consistency equally
● Close collaboration with kitchen leadership and the savoury team
Pay: $17.60-$26.31 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental care
- Extended health care
Work Location: In person
