Malika Paton
South Orange,NJ
Summary
Dynamic culinary professional with extensive experience at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, excelling in high-volume food production and therapeutic diet preparation. Proven track record in menu development and team leadership, ensuring exceptional service and compliance with food safety standards. Recognized for creativity and commitment to customer satisfaction in diverse culinary environments.
Overview
1
1
Certification
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Cook
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
05.2025 - Current
- Prepare and cook regular and therapeutic meals, including diabetic, low-sodium, low-protein, gluten-free, and modified-consistency diets.
- Frequently serve as the sole morning cook responsible for preparing breakfast service for approximately 300 veterans.
- Coordinate high-volume meal production while ensuring compliance with food safety, sanitation, and dietary standards.
- Utilize a variety of cooking methods including grilling, roasting, baking, frying, steaming, braising, and sautéing.
- Develop creative menus during winter storms and supply shortages using available inventory to ensure uninterrupted meal service.
- Create scratch-made specialty items including pecan bread pudding, fried rice, baked spaghetti, fresh juices, cookies, and desserts.
- Operate, maintain, and sanitize commercial kitchen equipment while maintaining a safe work environment.
Owner & Executive Chef
Luxe Affair Catering
01.2023 - Current
- Founded and manage a successful catering company specializing in weddings, corporate events, private parties, and special occasions.
- Create customized menus tailored to client preferences, dietary restrictions, and event themes.
- Lead kitchen and service staff to ensure flawless event execution and exceptional food presentation.
- Manage budgeting, purchasing, inventory, vendor relations, and event logistics.
- Coordinate multiple events simultaneously while maintaining quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
Assistant Sous Chef
Sophiscated Palate
03.2020 - Current
- Train and mentor kitchen staff on food preparation techniques, sanitation standards, and kitchen operations.
- Coordinate food production using established dietary guidelines, production sheets, and recipes.
- Assist with menu development, inventory management, and catering execution.
- Lead event teams to ensure efficient service and customer satisfaction.
Advanced Medical Support Assistant
Department of Veterans Affairs
10.2018 - 05.2025
- Coordinated patient scheduling, appointment management, and administrative operations for veterans receiving healthcare services.
- Served as a primary point of contact for veterans, providing exceptional customer service and resolving patient concerns.
- Maintained accurate electronic medical records and ensured compliance with VA policies and procedures.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary healthcare teams to support patient care and clinic efficiency.
- Assisted providers and leadership with workload management, patient communication, and operational support.
- Recognized for professionalism, organizational skills, and commitment to veteran-centered service.
Education
Associate of Science - Culinary Arts AAS
Hudson County Community College
Jersey City, NJ05.2023
Skills
- High-Volume Food Production
- Therapeutic Diet Preparation
- Healthcare Food Service
- Catering & Event Management
- Menu Development
- Team Leadership & Training
- Customer Service
- Food Safety & Sanitation
- Inventory & Cost Control
- Commercial Kitchen Operations
- Scheduling & Administrative Support
Certification
- ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification
- Food Safety & Sanitation Compliance
- Therapeutic & Modified Diet Preparation
Timeline
Cook
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
05.2025 - Current
Owner & Executive Chef
Luxe Affair Catering
01.2023 - Current
Assistant Sous Chef
Sophiscated Palate
03.2020 - Current
Advanced Medical Support Assistant
Department of Veterans Affairs
10.2018 - 05.2025
Associate of Science - Culinary Arts AAS
Hudson County Community College