Amber Johnston

I worked in multiple roles at this job; I started as a kitchen porter and transitioned into other roles, primarily as a waitress and pizza chef. At times, the restaurant's capacity reached around 80 guests.

As a waitress, I learned how to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of menu items, ingredients, and preparation methods.
• Maintain a friendly and approachable demeanour when interacting with customers.
• Process food and drinks orders, craft beverages and desserts, and coordinate seating and hosting for multiple tables.
• Manage tasks such as phone enquiries, food deliveries, payment processing, cash handling, and training new employees.

As a pizza chef, I learned how to:

• Prepare and cook pizzas efficiently in a traditional pizza oven to ensure a smooth service flow.
• Handle and prep ingredients while adhering to high standards of cleanliness and health and safety at all times and keeping the work area pristine.
• Collaborate with kitchen staff to deliver orders to tables punctually.

Other skills I learned in this role include:

• I gained experience in working collaboratively with a team and maintaining effective communication at all times.
• As a kitchen porter, I assisted chefs with minor food-handling tasks and sanitised, rinsed, and dried dishes.
• As a kitchen porter, I acquired skills in pouring and serving a variety of draught beers, as well as crafting mixed drinks and cocktail recipes.
• I ensured that all stations in the restaurant were always stocked as necessary.