Amber Casanova
Las Cruces,NM
Summary
Top-notch professional with expertise in menu development, kitchen management and staff training. Creates unique and delicious dishes while controlling food and labor costs. Collaborative and committed to seeking feedback from customers and staff to improve kitchen workflows.
Skilled in food safety and kitchen management, excel in team leadership, mentoring staff to peak performance. Achieved significant improvements in operational efficiency and dining experience quality.
High-performing Chef offering 21 years of restaurant experience. Excellent communication, leadership and problem-solving skills. Talent for building streamlined, cohesive teams. Detail-oriented team player with strong organizational skills. Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously with a high degree of accuracy.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Executive Chef
Spirit Golf Management
05.2022 - Current
- Developed kitchen staff through training, disciplinary action, and performance reviews.
- Maintained a safe and sanitary work environment, adhering to health department standards and regulations.
- Increased customer satisfaction by creating innovative and diverse menus tailored to various dietary needs.
- Oversaw business operations, inventory control, and customer service for restaurant.
- Developed menus, controlled food costs and oversaw quality, sanitation, and safety processes.
- Scheduled and received food and beverage deliveries, adhering to food cost and budget.
- Inventoried food, ingredient, and supply stock to prepare and plan vendor orders.
- Delivered excellent food quality and maximized customer satisfaction by preparing meals according to customer requests.
- Conducted regular evaluations of kitchen equipment and appliances, ensuring proper maintenance and timely replacement to maintain optimal operational efficiency.
- Developed strong relationships with vendors, negotiating competitive prices on ingredients and supplies.
- Maximized profitability by effectively managing food costs through portion control and minimizing waste.
- Created visually appealing plate presentations, enhancing the overall dining experience for patrons.
- Managed kitchen staff for efficient food production, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality dishes.
- Developed custom menus for clients with specific dietary restrictions or preferences, ensuring their utmost satisfaction during their dining experience.
- Implemented special events promotions such as theme nights or cooking demonstrations to attract new clientele and boost sales revenues.
Line Cook
WIllow + Blaine
09.2021 - 05.2022
- Prepared multiple orders simultaneously during peak periods with high accuracy rate, maximizing customer satisfaction, and repeat business.
- Collaborated with team members to maintain a clean and safe working environment, adhering to health and safety guidelines.
- Set up and prepared cooking supplies and workstations during opening and closing to maximize productivity.
- Adapted quickly to new recipes and techniques, demonstrating versatility and eagerness to learn from colleagues.
- Supported head chef during high-volume periods by efficiently executing complex tasks with precision under pressure.
- Demonstrated proficiency in using various kitchen equipment safely for efficient food preparation.
Server
The Game Sports Bar & Grill
09.2009 - 09.2021
- Demonstrated strong multitasking skills by managing multiple tables simultaneously without compromising service quality.
- Served food and beverages promptly with focused attention to customer needs.
- Worked with POS system to place orders, manage bills, and handle complimentary items.
- Collaborated with team members during busy shifts for efficient workflow and excellent guest experiences.
Education
No Degree - Hotel, Motel, And Restaurant Management
New Mexico State University
Las Cruces, NMCertificate of Completion - Culinary Arts
Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts
Boulder, CO12.2021
High School Diploma -
Mayfield High School
Las Cruces, NM05.2006
Skills
- Food Safety
- Menu Planning
- Cost Control
- Menu development
- Food plating and presentation
- Team Leadership
- Hiring, Training, and Development
- Kitchen Management
- Special Events
- Catering and Events
- Coaching and Mentoring
- Creative Thinking
Timeline
Executive Chef
Spirit Golf Management
05.2022 - Current
Line Cook
WIllow + Blaine
09.2021 - 05.2022
Server
The Game Sports Bar & Grill
09.2009 - 09.2021
No Degree - Hotel, Motel, And Restaurant Management
New Mexico State University
Certificate of Completion - Culinary Arts
Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts
High School Diploma -
Mayfield High School
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