Accomplished culinary professional with extensive restaurant experience, specialising in food safety and preparation. Demonstrates exceptional knife skills and a strong ability to work as a team player, ensuring high-quality customer service. Proven track record as a chef and line cook, committed to enhancing culinary expertise and contributing to the success of dynamic kitchen environments.
In my role, I was responsible for managing tills and providing excellent customer service, ensuring every customer interaction was positive and professional. I helped maintain a well-organised and visually appealing shop floor by replenishing stock promptly and keeping displays tidy.
I also occasionally supported the bakery team, preparing and serving freshly baked breads and pastries while maintaining high hygiene and food safety standards.
My role involved maintaining a high standard of food to ensure residents had a positive and enjoyable dining experience. I assisted chefs with lunch preparation and service, baked cakes for afternoon tea, and prepared and cooked nutritious evening meals. I also gained experience in preparing IDDSI Level meals for residents with swallowing difficulties, ensuring meals were safely textured and presented according to individual dietary needs.
Additionally, I occasionally supported the team with placing food and supply orders when required.
As a Line Chef at the Holiday Inn on London Road in Ipswich, I was responsible for maintaining high standards of cleanliness and hygiene in the kitchen, as well as preparing and cooking dishes for dinner service. I supported menu preparation and ensured all daily health and safety checks were completed, including food and fridge temperature logs. Working in a dynamic hotel environment strengthened my ability to stay calm under pressure and adapt quickly to changing demands. I also had experience running breakfast shifts, including setting up and maintaining the breakfast buffet, ensuring a smooth and efficient service for guests.
Responsible for preparing fresh food daily for breakfast, lunch, and evening dinners, including catering for large-scale functions and events. Experienced in shift work, with the flexibility to handle both early starts and late finishes. Confident working independently or as part of a team, with strong time management skills and a consistent focus on maintaining high standards of cleanliness and kitchen hygiene.
Responsible for serving customers, preparing food in advance to ensure smooth service, and maintaining a clean and organised restaurant environment. The role required forward planning to ensure stock and meals were always ready, particularly during busy periods. I regularly closed the restaurant on Saturday nights, ensuring it was thoroughly cleaned and ready for the following day’s service.