Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

DOLCE LOFTON

MIDDLETOWN,NY

Summary

Accomplished Chef De Partie and Kitchen Manager with a proven track record at Chipotle Restaurant, adept in kitchen leadership and culinary excellence. Skilled in team collaboration and kitchen management, I have significantly enhanced kitchen efficiency and food quality. My expertise in food safety and staff training has fostered a positive and productive work environment, contributing to sustained customer satisfaction.

Overview

17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Chef De Partie

Quinnz Pinz
13 Railroad Avenue, Middletown NY 10940
12.2023 - 06.2024
  • Provided support in all areas of the kitchen as needed, demonstrating versatility and adaptability under pressure.
  • Trained kitchen staff to perform various preparation tasks under pressure.
  • Demonstrated strong multitasking abilities, managing multiple stations during busy service periods.
  • Maintained well-organized mise en place to keep work consistent.
  • Operated all kitchen equipment safely to prevent injuries.
  • Rotated stock to use items before expiration date.
  • Contributed to a positive kitchen atmosphere through effective communication and collaboration with team members.
  • Complied with portion and serving sizes as per restaurant standards.
  • Prepared items for roasting, sautéing, frying, and baking.
  • Maintained high standards of cleanliness and organization, ensuring a safe and efficient workspace.
  • Ensured consistent dish quality by closely adhering to recipe guidelines and presentation standards.
  • Plated meals paying special attention to garnishes and overall presentation.

Shift Manager/Key Holder

Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
111 James P. Kelly Way, Middletown NY 10940
05.2021 - 09.2023
  • Trained new employees on company policies, procedures, and job-specific tasks to ensure their success in the role.
  • Oversaw cash handling procedures, maintaining accurate records of transactions and preventing discrepancies.
  • Delegated tasks effectively among team members based on their strengths and skill sets leading to greater productivity levels.
  • Maintained store cleanliness throughout the day to create a welcoming atmosphere for both customers and staff members alike.
  • Increased customer satisfaction through attentive service, swift problem resolution, and effective communication.
  • Worked closely with team members to schedule breaks and shifts to meet state regulations.
  • Managed inventory levels, ensuring adequate stock for smooth business operations and minimizing waste.
  • Resolved conflicts between employees diplomatically promoting a harmonious working environment conducive to high-performance teamwork.
  • Assisted customers with inquiries or concerns promptly and professionally, enhancing brand reputation for excellent service.
  • Ensured compliance with all company standards as well as local health and safety regulations during each shift.
  • Improved shift efficiency by streamlining processes and implementing time-saving strategies.
  • Monitored employee performance, providing constructive feedback and coaching to foster professional growth.
  • Advised new employees on company procedures and policies to facilitate daily tasks and responsibilities.
  • Exercised composure under pressure and in escalated customer service scenarios.
  • Checked building to confirm maintenance and cleaning met code and regulations.
  • Contributed ideas for process improvements which led to reduced costs without compromising quality.
  • Reduced employee turnover by fostering a positive work environment and providing ongoing training opportunities.
  • Collaborated with upper management on marketing initiatives to drive increased foot traffic and sales revenue.
  • Scheduled employee shifts, balancing workload fairly while accommodating individual preferences and availability when possible.
  • Implemented cross-training programs for staff members, increasing overall team productivity and versatility.
  • Analyzed sales data to identify trends or areas requiring improvement to meet established targets consistently.
  • Counted registers and cleaned and secured shop at end of shift.
  • Listened to and addressed customer concerns using creative problem-solving in accordance with company guidelines.
  • Directed employees to create displays, upsell featured items and tidy store during assigned shifts.
  • Assisted with scheduling, interviewing, and other administrative tasks to boost success successful store.
  • Developed professional relationships to improve retention of key customers.
  • Learned entire Type catalog of items to improve recommendations and increase upsells to customers.
  • Opened and closed location and monitored shift changes to uphold successful operations strategies and maximize business success.
  • Maintained professional demeanor by staying calm when addressing unhappy or angry customers.
  • Used industry expertise, customer service skills and analytical nature to resolve customer concerns and promote loyalty.
  • Maintained positive customer relations by addressing problems head-on and implementing successful corrective actions.
  • Reduced waste and pursued revenue development strategies to keep department aligned with sales and profit targets.
  • Identified and communicated customer needs to supply chain capacity and quality teams.
  • Improved staffing during busy periods by creating employee schedules and monitoring call-outs.
  • Evaluated employee performance and conveyed constructive feedback to improve skills.
  • Cultivated positive rapport with fellow employees to boost company morale and promote employee retention.
  • Trained personnel in equipment maintenance and enforced participation in exercises focused on developing key skills.
  • Established team priorities, maintained schedules and monitored performance.
  • Set aggressive targets for employees to drive company success and strengthen motivation.
  • Defined clear targets and objectives and communicated to other team members.
  • Recruited, interviewed and hired employees and implemented mentoring program to promote positive feedback and engagement.
  • Established performance goals for employees and provided feedback on methods for reaching those milestones.
  • Assisted in organizing and overseeing assignments to drive operational excellence.
  • Launched quality assurance practices for each phase of development
  • Streamlined and monitored quality programs to alleviate overdue compliance activities.

Line Cook

Olive Garden
200 N. Galleria Dr., Middletown NY 10941
04.2022 - 08.2023
  • 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.
  • Prepared and cooked full course meals based on restaurant recipes and specifications.
  • Prepared food items such as meats, poultry, and fish for frying purposes.
  • Plated and presented all dishes to match established restaurant standards.
  • Changed and sanitized cutting boards, benches, and surfaces between tasks to avoid cross-contamination.
  • Upheld strict sanitation standards while preparing meals, maintaining a clean workspace free of cross-contamination risks.
  • Checked food temperature regularly to verify proper cooking and safety.
  • Expedited service during peak hours by coordinating with fellow line cooks on timing of dish completion.
  • Created identical dishes numerous times daily with consistent care, attention to detail, and quality.
  • Improved kitchen efficiency by streamlining prep tasks and effectively organizing workstations.
  • Maintained well-stocked stations with supplies and spices for maximum productivity.
  • Increased kitchen productivity by keeping tools organized for easy access when needed.
  • Supported head chef during high-volume periods by efficiently executing complex tasks with precision under pressure.
  • Boosted employee morale through positive attitude, willingness to assist others when needed.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in using various kitchen equipment safely for efficient food preparation.
  • Grilled meats and seafood to customer specifications.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by consistently delivering high-quality dishes in a timely manner.
  • Operated varied kitchen equipment, observing operation guidelines to avoid accidents and prevent malfunctions.
  • Wrapped up and stored unused food in appropriate containers and placed in refrigerator to avoid spoilage.
  • Maintained consistent portion control, ensuring uniformity in presentation and reducing food waste.
  • Followed restaurant stock management schedule to monitor product freshness and rotate out old products.
  • Strengthened team communication through active listening and constructive feedback during shift meetings or one-on-one sessions.
  • Mastered various cooking techniques, broadening menu offerings and introducing innovative dishes.
  • Implemented effective waste reduction strategies, minimizing food costs and supporting sustainable practices.
  • Produced adequate amounts of mise en place to make meal preparation easier.
  • Kept kitchen clean and organized by performing daily maintenance tasks.
  • Followed health, safety and sanitation guidelines while preparing and serving food.
  • Prepared and cooked meals according to recipes and customer specifications.
  • Prepared food items in compliance with recipes and portioning control guidelines.
  • Checked for quality, kept track of old and new items and rotated stock to confirm freshness of food and ingredients.
  • Monitored food quality and presentation to maintain high standards.
  • Maintained smooth and timely operations in preparation and delivery of meals.
  • Maintained high food quality standards by checking delivery contents to verify product quality and quantity.
  • Verified proper portion sizes to consistently attain high food quality standards.
  • Tasted, smelled, and pierced food with fork to verify sufficient cooking.

Kitchen Manager

Chipotle Restaurant
444 NY-211 Suite 2, Middletown NY 10940
05.2021 - 05.2022
  • Maintained a clean and safe work environment, adhering to all health department regulations and guidelines.
  • Scheduled and received food and beverage deliveries, adhering to food cost and budget.
  • Checked and tested foods to verify quality and temperature.
  • Mentored and trained new team members, fostering a positive culture of teamwork and collaboration within the kitchen staff.
  • Conducted daily checks of refrigerators and freezers to verify proper food storage, container labeling, and surface cleaning.
  • Reduced food waste by closely monitoring inventory levels and implementing proper food storage techniques.
  • Inspected stock to identify shortages, replenish supply and maintain consistent inventory.
  • Collaborated with front-of-house staff to ensure seamless communication between the kitchen team and service areas for optimal guest experiences.
  • Delivered in-depth training to workers in food preparation and customer-facing roles to promote strong team performance.
  • Consistently met or exceeded local health department inspection requirements through diligent adherence to safety protocols and maintaining thorough documentation records.
  • Improved kitchen efficiency by implementing streamlined processes and optimizing staff scheduling.
  • Delegated food preparation duties down to cooks and followed up with cooks to verify proper preparation and production of meals.
  • Developed and implemented kitchen policies and procedures to establish clear guidelines for kitchen operations and comply with regulations.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction with attentiveness to dietary restrictions and allergen concerns in menu offerings.
  • Achieved rapid ticket times during peak service hours by effectively managing workflow distribution across various stations.
  • Implemented and maintained food safety and sanitation standards to establish safe handling and preparation of food.
  • Developed kitchen staff through training, disciplinary action, and performance reviews.
  • Contributed to a positive workplace culture by actively engaging with staff members, promoting open communication channels, and demonstrating support for ongoing professional development opportunities.
  • Reviewed and analyzed kitchen performance to verify gaps and observe continuous improvement.
  • Fostered a collaborative working environment among diverse teams of chefs, line cooks, prep cooks, dishwashers, and other support staff.
  • Evaluated employee performance regularly, addressing any skill gaps or growth opportunities through ongoing training initiatives.
  • Conducted regular performance evaluations for direct reports to help identify areas for improvement as well as recognizing successes and contributions.
  • Streamlined kitchen operations through regular equipment maintenance checks, minimizing downtime due to malfunctions or repairs.
  • Utilized advanced culinary techniques to create visually appealing dishes that delighted guests while maintaining the highest of quality standards.
  • Trained staff on proper cooking procedures as well as safety regulations and productivity strategies.
  • Oversaw food preparation and monitored safety protocols.
  • Motivated staff to perform at peak efficiency and quality.
  • Maintained kitchen cleanliness and sanitation through correct procedures and scheduled cleaning of surfaces and equipment.
  • Verified prepared food met standards for quality and quantity before serving to customers.
  • Implemented effective inventory control systems to reduce food spoilage and waste.
  • Kept facility compliant with health codes, sanitation requirements and license regulations, alleviating potentially heavy fines.
  • Handled escalated customer concerns with speed and knowledgeable support to achieve optimal satisfaction and maintain long-term loyalty.
  • Reduced health risks and safety hazards by preparing beverage products consistently while creating cleaning schedules, restocking items and sanitizing equipment to adhere to health department standards.
  • Inspected equipment and machinery for proper working condition and directed staff to clean and repair as needed.
  • Maximized quality assurance by completing frequent line checks.

Deli Clerk

ShopRite
125 Dolson Avenue, Middletown NY 10940
04.2007 - 07.2012
  • Greeted customers at counter to fulfill requests and answer questions.
  • Precisely measured, weighed, sliced, and packaged deli products according to customer requests while minimizing waste.
  • Maintained a safe working environment by adhering to food safety guidelines and promptly addressing any hazards.
  • Prevented food spoilage by monitoring dates, rotating stock, and following proper storage procedures.
  • Improved workflow efficiency by effectively multitasking, prioritizing tasks, and communicating with team members.
  • Restocked supplies and prepared additional ingredients during downtime for expected busy periods.
  • Cleaned and sanitized dishes and utensils, consistently keeping adequate supplies on hand for expected customer loads.
  • Maintained clean, trash-free workspaces to maximize productivity and safety.
  • Responded to telephone inquiries regarding available products and services and helped customers make appropriate choices.
  • Provided an enjoyable shopping experience for customers by engaging in friendly conversations while efficiently preparing their orders.
  • Developed strong rapport with customers by offering personalized service, answering questions, and making recommendations based on preferences.
  • Assisted in training new employees on proper deli procedures, ensuring consistent quality across the team.
  • Contributed to positive team dynamics through effective communication skills and a collaborative problem-solving approach.
  • Increased customer satisfaction by providing exceptional service and maintaining a clean, organized deli counter.
  • Took special orders for event catering and party trays, assisting customers by recommending additional items, condiments, and garnishes.
  • Enhanced product presentation by arranging visually appealing displays and regularly rotating items to ensure freshness.
  • Made food according to standard recipes with requested changes for customer satisfaction.
  • Built trust with customers through meticulous attention to detail in fulfilling special orders and dietary restrictions.
  • Ensured optimal product quality with regular temperature checks on refrigeration units and promptly reporting any issues.
  • Delivered exemplary customer service to guests, even in peak business periods to promote retention.
  • Offered product samples to customers, generating additional sales through taste-testing.
  • Exceeded customer expectations by going above and beyond to accommodate unique requests or last-minute changes to orders.
  • Boosted sales by actively promoting seasonal items, weekly specials, and bundled deals to customers at the deli counter.
  • Listened to customer requests and suggested additional menu items as appropriate to upsell products.
  • Learned other teammates' work tasks to train as backup.
  • Streamlined order fulfillment processes for quicker turnaround times and increased customer satisfaction.
  • Consistently met or exceeded daily sales targets through upselling techniques and outstanding customer service skills.
  • Supported store success through participation in inventory audits and suggesting improvements for deli department operations.
  • Kept kitchen, counter and dining areas cleaned and sanitized.
  • Properly labeled and stored food and fresh ingredients in cooler or freezer to optimize freshness.
  • Prepared salads, soups and sandwiches for customers.
  • Performed serving, cleaning and stocking to high standards and provided excellent customer satisfaction.
  • Prepared recipe ingredients by washing, peeling, cutting, and measuring.
  • Replenished serving stations with fresh food and cleaned up spills.
  • Replenished condiments, beverages, and supplies while maintaining cleanliness of service areas.
  • Filled out daily shift log to record amount of food prepared, used and leftover.
  • Readied customers' take-out orders in secure bags with appropriate amounts of condiments, silverware and napkins.
  • Delivered exceptional service as illustrated through multiple positive Yelp reviews.
  • Observed customer purchases in line and differentiated between standard portions.
  • Backed up servers by setting up trays and completing some food deliveries.
  • Brewed coffee and tea and changed out drink station syrups.

Education

None - Culinary Arts

Monroe College
New Rochelle, NY

Academic -

Middletown Highschool
Middletown, NY
06.2006

Skills

  • Team Management
  • Food allergy understanding
  • Knife Skills
  • Food presentation
  • Proper food handling
  • Garnishing Techniques
  • Stock making
  • Plating and presentation
  • Sauce preparation
  • Grilling Techniques
  • Hospitality
  • Frying techniques
  • Roasting methods
  • Sanitation Practices
  • Portion standards
  • Nutrition Principles
  • Special Diets Knowledge
  • Pizza making
  • Allergen awareness
  • Appetizer Creation
  • Entree Preparation
  • Recruiting and training
  • Vegetable cookery
  • Pasta Making
  • Food spoilage prevention
  • Inventory Oversight
  • Ingredient Sourcing
  • Special Events
  • Counter sanitization
  • Meat Cookery
  • Fish cookery
  • Dessert creation
  • Poultry Cookery
  • Pastry Techniques
  • Potato cookery
  • Rice cookery
  • Braising Techniques
  • Steaming methods
  • Safe Food Handling
  • Food Safety
  • Food Preparation
  • Cooking techniques
  • Portion Control
  • Kitchen Organization
  • Safe handling
  • Kitchen leadership
  • Kitchen Equipment Operation
  • Staff Training
  • Ordering and Requisitions
  • Garnishing and Plating
  • Staff Motivation
  • Kitchen Management
  • Safety Management
  • Customer Service
  • Catering background
  • Equipment usage
  • Plating
  • Inventory Management
  • Foodservice
  • Order delivery practices
  • Mentoring and Coaching
  • Recipes and menu planning
  • Supervising Food Prep
  • Line Inspections
  • Compliance
  • Menu Memorization
  • Employee Scheduling
  • Performance Improvement
  • Menu Planning
  • Special diets
  • Team Leadership
  • Culinary Trends
  • Sanitation Procedures
  • Seafood Preparation
  • Detail Oriented
  • Heavy Lifting
  • Workflow Optimization
  • Team Collaboration
  • Food Preparing, Plating, and Presentation
  • Quality Control
  • Kitchen Staff Management
  • Food Stock and Supply Management
  • Portion and cost control
  • Cleaning and sanitation

Certification

Servsafe certified

Timeline

Chef De Partie

Quinnz Pinz
12.2023 - 06.2024

Line Cook

Olive Garden
04.2022 - 08.2023

Shift Manager/Key Holder

Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
05.2021 - 09.2023

Kitchen Manager

Chipotle Restaurant
05.2021 - 05.2022

Deli Clerk

ShopRite
04.2007 - 07.2012

None - Culinary Arts

Monroe College

Academic -

Middletown Highschool

Similar Profiles

CREATE PROFILE
DOLCE LOFTON