Adam Gonzaga
The Bronx
Summary
Dynamic culinary professional with over 14 years in food preparation and catering. With a strong focus on food safety, menu planning, and effective team communication. Committed to enhancing food safety practices and delivering exceptional dining experiences.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
Kitchen Staff Member
MAPC Day School
New York
06.2022 - Current
- Worked successfully with diverse group of coworkers to accomplish goals and address issues related to our products and services.
- Collaborated closely with team members to achieve project objectives and meet deadlines.
- Approached customers and engaged in conversation through use of effective interpersonal and people skills.
- Prepared and served nutritious meals to individuals in need.
- Collaborated with team members to ensure smooth kitchen operations.
- Engaged with community members to foster a welcoming atmosphere.
- Prepared meals for distribution, following recipes and directions from supervisors.
Garde Manger
The Spence School
New York
10.2011 - Current
- Prepared fresh meals for over 600 students and faculty, using seasonal ingredients and diverse culinary techniques.
- Managed inventory and ensured freshness of all produce and supplies.
- Collaborated with chefs to create daily specials aligned with school menus.
- Communicated effectively with team members to streamline food preparation processes.
- Developed creative salad presentations to enhance visual appeal for students.
- Implemented best practices for food safety and sanitation in the kitchen environment.
- Assisted in creating new and innovative recipes.
- Adhered to strict health codes related to food preparation methods.
- Assisted in planning menus featuring different types of seasonal dishes.
- Assembled platters for various catering events.
- Maintained high standards of customer service during high-volume work shifts and fast-paced operations.
- Prepared customized menus to meet specific dietary requirements, including allergens, religious restrictions, and health guidelines.
- Stored foods correctly using correct storage containers and labelling systems.
- Developed creative ideas for special events or promotions involving food preparation or presentation.
Catering Chef
Be A Guest At You Own Party
New York
10.2011 - Current
- Developed diverse catering menus for various events and client preferences.
- Supervised kitchen staff to ensure food quality and safety standards.
- Collaborated with event planners to customize catering services for clients.
- Assisted with setup of buffet tables or other dining areas prior to commencement of catered events.
- Planned seating arrangements according to number of guests attending each catered event.
- Organized storage areas for food items purchased for catering services in accordance with health standards.
- Inspected kitchens before and after each event to ensure cleanliness was maintained throughout the duration of a function.
- Served food and beverages to guests during functions.
- Responded to guest inquiries with professionalism and courtesy.
- Collaborated with team members to ensure smooth operations.
- Ensured that all dietary restrictions were met by providing vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free options at each event.
Lead Line Cook
Tap Room 307
New York
10.2009 - 09.2011
- Supervised kitchen staff to ensure efficient food preparation and service.
- Collaborated with front-of-house team to manage food orders effectively.
- Monitored inventory levels to minimize waste and ensure stock availability.
- Ensured compliance with health regulations in all food handling practices.
- Assisted in food inventory and control while properly receiving and storing delivered items.
- Followed proper food handling methods and maintained correct temperature of food products.
- Prepared dishes in fast-paced environment working with teammates to maintain high customer satisfaction rate.
- Planned, prepared and cooked meals according to restaurant specifications.
Education
Some College (No Degree) - Criminal Justice
John Jay College of Criminal Justice
New York (City), NYSkills
- Food safety and culinary techniques
- Recipe development and menu planning
- Catering operations and inventory management
- Team collaboration and leadership
- Effective communication and time management
- Knife skills and food presentation
- Batch cooking
Languages
English
Full Professional
Spanish
Professional
Affiliations
Competed in USA Boxing Tournaments
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Kitchen Staff Member
MAPC Day School
06.2022 - Current
Garde Manger
The Spence School
10.2011 - Current
Catering Chef
Be A Guest At You Own Party
10.2011 - Current
Lead Line Cook
Tap Room 307
10.2009 - 09.2011
Some College (No Degree) - Criminal Justice
John Jay College of Criminal Justice