Gonzalo Castillo
Chicago,IL
Summary
Dynamic Executive Chef with a proven track record at Kayao, excelling in menu innovation and cost control. Expert in kitchen operations and staff training, I enhance customer satisfaction through creative cuisine and efficient inventory management. Passionate about delivering exceptional dining experiences while maintaining food safety standards.
Overview
2
2
Languages
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Executive Chef
Kayao
Chicago, Illinois
05.2024 - Current
- Managed kitchen operations to ensure food quality and safety standards.
- Created new menu items, managed food expenses, and supervised quality to ensure adherence to standards.
- Developed innovative menus to enhance customer dining experiences.
- Trained and supervised kitchen staff for optimal performance.
- Monitored kitchen area and staff to maintain overall safety and establish proper food handling techniques.
- Oversaw inventory management to minimize waste and maximize freshness.
- Conducted regular kitchen inspections to maintain cleanliness and organization standards.
- Established strong relationships with front-of-house staff for seamless service coordination.
- Focused on customer satisfaction, creating delicious cuisine to impress diners.
- Performed financial analysis and recommended effective methods to cut costs.
- Controlled labor costs through effective use of staff scheduling techniques.
Sous Chef
Ballyhoo
Chicago, Illinois
06.2023 - 05.2024
- DeNucci's and Gemini
- Collaborated with Executive Chef to create innovative dishes for special events.
- Collaborated with the head chef to create seasonal menus and innovative dishes.
- Directed kitchen staff in day-to-day operations including food production, sanitation, safety practices, and personnel management.
- Assisted in managing kitchen staff, scheduling shifts, and delegating tasks effectively.
- Trained new kitchen staff on procedures, food preparation techniques, and safety protocols.
- Monitored food safety practices to ensure compliance with health regulations and standards.
- Managed inventory levels, placing orders for necessary ingredients and supplies promptly.
Lead Line Cook
Armitage Ale House
Chicago, IL
01.2021 - 01.2023
- Directed kitchen staff to optimize food preparation and service flow for improved customer satisfaction.
- Oversaw daily kitchen activities to maintain efficiency and quality.
- Supported head chef in meal preparation and streamlined kitchen operations to enhance service delivery.
- Facilitated team collaboration to achieve operational goals.
- Oversaw inventory purchasing for kitchen supplies and ingredients to ensure timely availability.
- Kept stations stocked and ready for use to maximize productivity.
- Maintained cleanliness in the kitchen area by adhering to health and safety regulations.
- Led crew in safely executing electrical distribution projects and repairs.
Brunch Fry Cook
Tzuco
Chicago, IL
01.2020 - 01.2021
- Prepared and cooked menu items according to restaurant recipes and standards.
- Sauteed vegetables to support timely meal preparation in fast-paced kitchen.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of kitchen workstations and equipment.
- Monitored inventory levels and reported needs for food supplies to management.
- Performed monthly inventory checks to maintain accurate stock levels and minimize waste.
Cook
Tanta
Chicago, IL
01.2016 - 01.2020
- Prepared food for lunch and dinner service, ensuring quality and timely delivery
- Grilled food items using proper techniques, enhancing flavor and presentation
- Sanitized work area to maintain cleanliness and readiness for tasks
Education
Skills
- Kitchen operations
- Food safety
- Menu design
- Menu planning
- Menu innovation
- Ingredient procurement
- Cost control
- Cost analysis
- Inventory management
- Staff recruitment and training
Languages
Spanish
Native/ Bilingual
English
Native/ Bilingual
Timeline
Executive Chef
Kayao
05.2024 - Current
Sous Chef
Ballyhoo
06.2023 - 05.2024
Lead Line Cook
Armitage Ale House
01.2021 - 01.2023
Brunch Fry Cook
Tzuco
01.2020 - 01.2021
Cook
Tanta
01.2016 - 01.2020