Michael Leonard
Berlin
Summary
Dynamic restaurant manager and chef with proven skills in inventory management, menu development, food preparation, and team leadership. Committed to optimizing kitchen operations and ensuring food safety and deliciousness compliance.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
Work History
Restaurant Manager and Chef
Zack’s Burgers and Shakes
Kensington
07.2024 - Current
- Managed inventory levels and ordered supplies as needed.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of kitchen workspace and cooking equipment.
- Communicated effectively with front-of-house staff regarding special requests or menu changes.
- Trained new kitchen staff on food preparation techniques and safety protocols.
- Supervised daily restaurant operations and staff activities.
- Assisted in resolving customer complaints and inquiries promptly.
Kitchen Manager
Vero Cucino Rustico
Middletown
02.2021 - 01.2023
- Developed weekly menus based on seasonal ingredients and customer preferences.
- Trained new employees on kitchen procedures and best practices.
- Created cost-effective recipes while maintaining high food quality standards.
- Inspected equipment regularly to identify necessary repairs or replacements.
- Motivated kitchen staff by establishing goals to increase productivity and quality.
Chef
Box Bistro
Berlin
03.2018 - 03.2020
- Prepared diverse menu items using fresh ingredients and seasonal produce.
- Developed weekly specials to enhance customer dining experience and promote variety.
Head Chef
75 Center
Southington
08.2017 - 01.2018
Line Cook
Prospect Cafe
West Hartford
04.2017 - 08.2017
Executive Chef
Crystal Bees
Southington
01.2017 - 04.2017
Executive Catering Chef
Avon Prime Meets Catering
East Hartford
2016 - 2016
- Developed innovative catering menus for diverse client events and preferences.
- Collaborated with event planners to customize catering services for unique occasions.
- Created visually appealing food presentations for upscale catering events.
Chef
Rooftop 120
Glastonbury
2016 - 2016
Kitchen Manager
Rooftop 120
Glastonbury
2015 - 2015
Education
Diploma in Culinary Arts - Hospitality
Cromwell Culinary Institute
Cromwell, CTSkills
- Inventory management
- Menu development
- Food safety compliance
- Cost control measures
- Staff training
- Customer relationship management
- Effective communication
- Team leadership
- Conflict resolution
- Kitchen workflow optimization
- Culinary innovation
- Time management
- Stable work history
- Culinary arts education
- Purchasing and cost control
- Dish presentation
- Food preparation
- Culinary creativity
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Restaurant Manager and Chef
Zack’s Burgers and Shakes
07.2024 - Current
Kitchen Manager
Vero Cucino Rustico
02.2021 - 01.2023
Chef
Box Bistro
03.2018 - 03.2020
Head Chef
75 Center
08.2017 - 01.2018
Line Cook
Prospect Cafe
04.2017 - 08.2017
Executive Chef
Crystal Bees
01.2017 - 04.2017
Executive Catering Chef
Avon Prime Meets Catering
2016 - 2016
Chef
Rooftop 120
2016 - 2016
Kitchen Manager
Rooftop 120
2015 - 2015
Diploma in Culinary Arts - Hospitality
Cromwell Culinary Institute