Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Languages
Certification
Timeline
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MICHAEL SOUTH

Miami

Summary

I'm a dynamic culinary professional with extensive experience as Executive Chef at Left Bank Bistro, excelling in training and development while enhancing kitchen productivity. I've proven my ability to negotiate with vendors and implement effective communication strategies, resulting in high-quality food preparation and satisfied customers. I'm also skilled in event catering and culinary techniques. Creative and passionate chef with experience in leading kitchen operations, menu development, and team management. Skilled in crafting innovative dishes that cater to diverse palates while ensuring high standards of food safety and quality. Demonstrated ability to improve kitchen efficiency and enhance dining experiences through effective leadership and culinary skills. Successfully elevated guest satisfaction by consistently delivering exceptional meals and fostering a positive working environment for the culinary team.

Overview

24
24
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Line Chef (saute)

Ponte Modern American
Tampa
02.2023 - 03.2024
  • Cleaned and sanitized kitchen equipment, utensils and work stations.
  • Regularly checked temperature of freezers and refrigerators to ensure food safety requirements were being met.
  • Liaised with vendors to purchase optimal recipe ingredients at cost-effective rates.
  • Trained kitchen workers on culinary techniques.
  • Demonstrated and modeled positive and professional communication with customers and team members, resulting in engaged co-workers and satisfied and loyal customers.

Executive Chef

Left Bank Bistro
St Pete
01.2020 - 01.2023
  • Supervised dramatic changes to kitchens, adhered to health department standards and handled customer requests for healthier food options.
  • Supervised specialty dish preparation to satisfy customer requests and cater to various dietary needs.
  • Monitored inventory levels of all food items to ensure adequate supplies are available at all times.
  • Communicated effectively with wait staff regarding patron food allergies and dietary restrictions.
  • Directed kitchen staff in food preparation and presentation to ensure high quality standards were met.

Chef Owner

Kasper’s Grill
Charlotte
01.2009 - 01.2015
  • Ran all restaurant operations

Deli manager

Kress market & deli
Long beach
01.2007 - 01.2012
  • Ran market and deli, I hired and trained new staff
  • Purchased wine and vegan products
  • Reported to owners of daily productions

Executive Sous Chef

Wolf Gang Puck Brasserie
Los Angeles
01.2000 - 01.2007
  • Supervised 18 cooks
  • Oversaw back of house operations
  • Performed purchasing function for this upscale establishment in American Continental Cuisine

Education

Associate of Arts - Culiuary Arts

New York Restaurant School
New York
09-1992

Skills

  • Training and development
  • Teaching
  • Kitchen productivity
  • Staff performance
  • Event catering
  • Culinary techniques
  • Time management
  • Vendor negotiation
  • Effective communication
  • Recordkeeping and documentation

Languages

English
Professional
Spanish
Limited

Certification

  • Food Handlers Certification

Timeline

Line Chef (saute)

Ponte Modern American
02.2023 - 03.2024

Executive Chef

Left Bank Bistro
01.2020 - 01.2023

Chef Owner

Kasper’s Grill
01.2009 - 01.2015

Deli manager

Kress market & deli
01.2007 - 01.2012

Executive Sous Chef

Wolf Gang Puck Brasserie
01.2000 - 01.2007

Associate of Arts - Culiuary Arts

New York Restaurant School
MICHAEL SOUTH