How do you deal with the pressure in the kitchen with the head chef, without getting angry?
I saw a few culinary tv shows and it was hard to see how the head chef was getting angry and and yelling at the others chefs because a dish was not prepared properly. #chef #cooking #restaurant
5 answers
Eli’s Answer
It's not always like it looks on TV but Chef's do get angry. "Yes, Chef" is the right answer most of the time in the moment. A really great chef is also a great teacher. If they yell at you they will also explain what is wrong and how to make it better. It can be frustrating but it is part of learning in the kitchen.
Paige’s Answer
Often a head chef will yell because in the moment something is urgent or needs to be fixed right away. The best way to handle the pressure is to say yes chef and do as they ask and if you have questions or disagree bring it up later on when the rush is over.
Jamal’s Answer
Whenever I was the head chef in my group, I tell jokes and have fun with everyone. It also helps to sing a song or two. Don't worry about it at all, you'll be fine.
Kathy’s Answer
First - These are television shows. They are not reality. They are paid to create drama and drama is what they do.
As for Chefs and not letting them get under your skin, so to say. how badly do you want their position?
Chefs call the shots, it is their job and their job is on the line, not yours.
At first, you are a dime a dozen, a chef, on the other hand, requires a lot and discipline. Attitude can be a challenge but they have earned it, the more experienced ones.
Really good chefs do not have attitudes because they have been there, where you are now. They understand that an owner can fire them anytime. They have to be creative, consistent and they have the make money for the place that they are working at.
Most chefs are in the kitchen watching everything. Their reputation hinges on what and how things are made.
Although the shows are drama and not real, there are times where one may lose his/her temper and it may be a professional thing and not a personal thing. The difference is if you are strong enough to determine which one is which.
You do have to have thick skin and although, at times, you may want to quit, ask yourself if you want to start this all over.
Have fun, don't take things too serious but follow rules, follow directions and don't think you are better than anyone. Someone may put you in your place.
Steffi Vaughan
Steffi’s Answer
Contrary to what t.v shows display, head chefs are not always like this. I will say that they do have a lot of pressure on them. My ex spouse and I owned a restaurant for 17 years. He was the head chef. The best thing you can do is to do your job as best you can and take whatever necessary steps you can do help the chef out. Examples are keeping the restaurant tidy, doing dishes, prepping food, just anything you can do before the chef has to ask for it will go a long way. Hope this helps!!!!