Summary
Overview
Work History
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Catharine Newcomb

Wolfeboro,NH

Summary

Dynamic Chef and former owner of Stairway Cafe, recognized for enhancing customer satisfaction through innovative menu development and exceptional food quality. Skilled in kitchen management and food safety, I successfully reduced waste and optimized operations, fostering a collaborative team environment while delivering high-quality culinary experiences.

Overview

19
19
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Chef/Restaurant Owner

Stairway Cafe
10.2005 - 03.2025
  • Oversaw grill, stove, and oven, and cleaned equipment after every shift.
  • Checked freezer and refrigerator prior to each shift to verify correct temperatures.
  • Maintained well-organized mise en place to keep work consistent.
  • Placed orders to restock items before supplies ran out.
  • Handled and stored food to eliminate illness and prevent cross-contamination.
  • Utilized proper cleaning techniques to sanitize counters and utensils used in preparation of raw meat, poultry, fish, and eggs.
  • Optimized food preparation processes, implementing time-saving techniques without compromising quality.
  • Trained kitchen staff to perform various preparation tasks under pressure.
  • Reduced food waste with strategic menu planning and inventory control techniques.
  • Prevented cross-contamination from utensils, surfaces, and pans when cooking and plating meals for food allergy sufferers.
  • Inventoried food, ingredient, and supply stock to prepare and plan vendor orders.
  • Prepared meals from scratch using authentic, popular recipes to generate repeat business.
  • Cultivated a positive work culture among kitchen staff through open communication lines and mutual respect within the team.
  • Upheld stringent food safety regulations, ensuring compliance with all relevant health department guidelines.
  • Continually improved kitchen safety by enforcing strict hygiene protocols and staff training on equipment usage.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by consistently delivering high-quality culinary creations.
  • Monitored line processes to maintain consistency in quality, quantity, and presentation.
  • Adapted menus seasonally, incorporating fresh produce to create visually appealing and flavorful dishes.
  • Managed food costs, sourcing ingredients from local suppliers to support community partnerships and sustainable practices.
  • Streamlined kitchen operations for increased efficiency, implementing new inventory management system.
  • Developed signature dish that became bestseller, combining innovative flavors with classic techniques.
  • Enhanced dining experience by crafting innovative menu items tailored to seasonal ingredients.
  • Worked closely with front-of-house staff to facilitate excellent customer service.

Skills

  • Food safety and sanitation
  • Customer service
  • Knife skills
  • Cooking techniques
  • Food quality
  • Kitchen management
  • Food presentation
  • Meal preparation
  • Attention to detail
  • Kitchen operations
  • Team collaboration
  • Ingredient knowledge
  • Recipes and menu planning

Certification

ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification

Timeline

Chef/Restaurant Owner

Stairway Cafe
10.2005 - 03.2025

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Catharine Newcomb