Ariel Zuniga
Las Vegas,NV
Summary
Professional culinary expert with strong track record in leading kitchen operations and producing high-quality dishes. Adept at team collaboration, ensuring smooth service, and adapting to changing needs. Highly skilled in menu development, food safety, and cost management. Known for reliability and achieving results in fast-paced environments. 17 Years of culinary industry including over 7 years of management experience.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Chef De Cuisine
Pamplona Bar & Tapas
Las Vegas, NV
06.2017 - 10.2019
- Developed seasonal menus reflecting regional Spanish cuisine trends.
- Supervised kitchen staff of 8 employees, ensuring adherence to food safety standards.
- Coordinated with 6 suppliers to source high-quality ingredients for menu items.
- Maintained inventory levels, reducing waste through efficient stock management practices. Maintained food costs below %32
- Maintained high levels of sanitation and cleanliness, adhering to strict health code regulations and ensuring a safe working environment. Met state health code standards achieving grades of %93 or higher.
- Reduced food waste through careful menu planning, portion control, and regular monitoring of product expiration dates.
- Earned accolades from the press, leading to increased reservations and greater visibility for the restaurant by consistently delivering exceptional culinary experiences for guests. Featured 6 times in the Las Vegas Review Journal.
Kitchen Manager
Cafe Sevilla Corporate Commissary
San Diego, CA
05.2008 - 11.2013
- Supervised daily kitchen operations, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. Maintained a %91 or higher with state health inspectors.
- Managed inventory levels, coordinating with suppliers to maintain quality and minimize waste while keeping food cost below %34.
- Coordinated delivery schedules for 3 restaurants in San Diego, Riverside, and Long beach California
- Managed staff schedules and maintained adequate coverage for all shifts while keeping labor costs below %32
Education
High School Diploma -
Castle Park High School
Chula Vista, CA06.1994
Skills
- Food safety standards
- Menu planning capability
- Budgeting and cost control
- Kitchen management
- Labor Cost Control
- Great Communication Skills
- Bilingual (English/Spanish)
- Problem-solving abilities
Timeline
Chef De Cuisine
Pamplona Bar & Tapas
06.2017 - 10.2019
Kitchen Manager
Cafe Sevilla Corporate Commissary
05.2008 - 11.2013
High School Diploma -
Castle Park High School