Signs That Someone Has Experience Working in a Restaurant Kitchen

Working in a restaurant kitchen can be an incredible experience, but it also requires a unique set of skills and mindsets. Here are some tips to help you spot someone who has genuine experience in the kitchen, versus someone who has just played the fast food gig.

Essential Skills and Knowledge

Knife Skills: Restaurant kitchens demand precision and speed. If someone can julienne, chiffonade, or dice onions effortlessly without cutting themselves, they are likely to have the right experience. In contrast, fast food workers often rely on pre-cut ingredients to speed up the process. Speed and Efficiency: Experienced cooks move with purpose, knowing exactly where everything is and what to do next. This is crucial in a high-pressure kitchen environment where every second counts. In contrast, fast food workers often wait for timers to ding or rely on pre-prepared ingredients. Terminology: A true kitchen veteran knows the lingo. They might use terms like "mise en place," "spit," or "pots de creme" which are common in professional kitchens but rarely used in fast food settings.

Everyday Habits of Professional Chefs

The most important lesson I learned working in restaurant kitchens is to clean as you go. Instead of piling up dishes, pots, and pans at the end of the day, I made it a habit to clean as I cooked. Other restaurant workers share this habit, while "civilians" often see an opportunity to take breaks between tasks.

Professional kitchen workers have several tell-tale signs:

Towel-holding habit: They often hold a towel with their free hand while cooking. This is not just for wiping hands but also for a quick clean-up. Even at home, they might casually throw the towel onto their shoulder from time to time. Relentless cleaning: They clean up as they cook, ensuring the work space remains clutter-free. This demonstrates their commitment to maintaining a professional environment. Unobtrusive presence: When cooking with someone, professional chefs facilitate the process without drawing attention to themselves. They work efficiently around others, as if they're a natural part of the workflow.

Conclusion

Working in a restaurant kitchen is a demanding yet rewarding experience. If you notice these signs in someone, it's a strong indication that they have the necessary experience and knowledge to handle the challenges of a professional kitchen. Whether you're hiring for a restaurant, or simply looking to evaluate someone's skills, these indicators can help you determine the authenticity of their experience.