Currently Hiring

Restaurant Helper

Job Description

Join a small, focused team where reliability, attention to detail, and a calm presence truly matter.

This role supports both front-of-house and back-of-house service during an intimate tasting-menu dinner. We are looking for someone who shows up prepared, stays present during service, and takes pride in doing things correctly.

Responsibilities During Service

Dining Room Service

Track the kitchen’s pace, deliver dishes promptly, and briefly describe each course accurately and professionally.

Guest Monitoring

Maintain awareness of tables, clear finished plates and empty glasses in a timely manner, and ensure guests feel attended to without unnecessary interruption.

Drink Support

Assist with drink service as directed. (Independent drink preparation and pairings are reserved for advanced roles.)

Plating & Expediting Support

When service pace allows, assist the chef with plating and expediting to keep service flowing smoothly.

During active service, the priority is the dining room and guest experience.

Responsibilities After Service

Dishwashing & Cleanup

Once service slows, wash all dishes, glassware, and utensils thoroughly and return them to their proper places.

End-of-Night Close

Ensure the dish area is clean, trash is removed, and all service items are fully reset by the end of the shift.

All duties must be completed by 9:00 PM.

Schedule

• Thursdays and Saturdays

• 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM

• Additional dates may be offered occasionally by mutual agreement.

This is a fixed shift with a defined start and end time.

About ‘Āina Kaua‘i

Located in Kapa‘a, ‘Āina Kaua‘i offers refined Japanese cuisine showcasing Kaua‘i’s local bounty. Our pre-fixe tasting menu serves just 12 guests nightly in a calm, meditative setting.

We have been recognized with Hale ‘Aina “Best Kaua‘i Restaurant” (2023-2025) and OpenTable Diners’ Choice (2022-2025). This is a small, detail-oriented workplace where each team member directly contributes to the quality of the guest experience.

Requirements

• Strong conscientiousness, integrity, and reliability

• Ability to engage guests professionally with aloha spirit

• Comfort working in a quiet, focused, high-expectation environment

• Authorized to work in the United States

• Drug-free workplace

• Ability to commit to scheduled shifts consistently

• In-person interview required

• Criminal background check may be required

Compensation

This position is paid on a per-shift basis, with compensation determined by experience, demonstrated capability, and role level. Compensation details, including advancement opportunities, are provided in the Employment Agreement.

Application Process

Submit your application here. Qualified candidates will be contacted to schedule an in-person interview.