Kelsea McGrath
Westminster
Summary
Accomplished and dedicated chef with 18 years of experience in the food and beverage industry, specializing in high-volume, fine-dining environments. Proven expertise in managing food and bar operations, leading diverse teams, and delivering exceptional dining experiences. Adept at overseeing menu development, budgeting, cost control, and maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety. Passionate about innovative food and beverage concepts, training staff, and fostering a positive team environment.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Lead Line Cook
Frasca Food & Wine
03.2023 - Current
- Worked with Chef Ian Palazzola daily & was part of obtaining a Michelin star.
- Worked under guest Chefs Thomas Keller, Marc Vetri, Gregory Gourdet, Michael Tusk & Suzanne Gresham.
- Trained staff and showcased the companies core values.
- Maintained food, labor and operating expenses.
- Maintained and counted inventory while making sure all prep levels remained at par.
- Cultivated a positive working atmosphere among kitchen staff, fostering camaraderie and a strong sense of teamwork.
- Produced high volume covers per day and maintained near-perfect customer satisfaction scores.
- Trained junior cooks on proper cooking techniques, safety protocols, and kitchen etiquette, promoting a positive work environment.
- Maintained high-quality food standards by ensuring consistent execution of recipes and presentation techniques.
Line Cook
Mercantile Dining & Provision
11.2022 - 05.2023
- 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.
Veterinary Technician
Foothills Animal Hospital
06.2020 - 02.2022
- Cleaned and disinfected exam areas, surgical equipment and kennels to prevent diseases.
- Administered medications to animals in treatment.
- Responsible for pharmacy inventory and ordering.
- Recorded symptoms and documented medical observations to inform treatment decisions.
- Collected patient biopsies and blood samples for laboratory analysis and assisted in surgery.
Bar Manager
Tag Restaurant Group
08.2016 - 02.2019
- Successfully assisted in opening two new franchises within the company and training all staff.
- Improved bar layout for better customer flow and comfort, increasing seating capacity and satisfaction.
- Managed inventory to reduce wastage, ensuring optimal stock levels for daily operations.
- Handled customer complaints professionally, resolving issues promptly and effectively.
- Purchased inventory and cultivated strong vendor relationships.
Server/Bartender/Line Cook
Cucina Colore
06.2016 - 07.2017
- Displayed enthusiasm and promoted excellent service to customers, successfully increasing referrals, and walk-in business.
- Maintained order efficiency and accuracy through clear communication with kitchen staff, earning numerous recommendations from satisfied customers.
- Mentored and trained staff members to ensure exceptional customer service standards.
- Handled conflict resolution among staff members promptly and professionally, maintaining a positive work environment.
- Streamlined inventory management for optimal stock levels and reduced waste.
Server/Bartender/Line Cook
Mellow Mushroom
02.2013 - 05.2016
- Contributed to a positive work environment through effective teamwork and communication with colleagues.
- Developed loyal clientele by consistently delivering outstanding service and engaging in friendly conversation.
- Improved kitchen efficiency by streamlining prep tasks and effectively organizing workstations.
- 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.
Server/Bartender
Brule Bistro
06.2011 - 02.2013
- Implemented effective communication strategies between front-of-house and back-of-house staff for streamlined operations.
- Consistently met or exceeded performance goals related to sales targets, customer satisfaction ratings, and order accuracy.
- Contributed to inventory management by monitoring stock levels.
- Trained new staff on menu knowledge and service protocols, raising team's overall performance.
- Built rapport with guests to enhance their dining experience and encourage return visits.
Server/Lead Line Cook
Wave 3000
05.2011 - 01.2012
- Addressed customer complaints or concerns professionally, ensuring swift resolution and maintaining positive relationships.
- Assisted in training new hires, providing guidance on restaurant standards and best practices.
- Maintained clean and organized dining areas to uphold restaurant hygiene standards.
- Supported colleagues during peak hours, fostering a collaborative work environment that enhanced overall productivity levels.
Server
Millers Ale House Bar and Grill
05.2010 - 05.2011
- Cultivated warm relationships with regular customers.
- Performed opening and closing duties, ensuring the dining area was prepared for seamless service transitions.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by promptly attending to their needs and providing personalized service.
- Maintained a clean and orderly dining area for an enjoyable guest experience.
Server/Line Cook
Marco Movies
08.2006 - 05.2010
- Demonstrated strong multitasking skills by managing multiple tables simultaneously without compromising service quality.
- Served food and beverages promptly with focused attention to customer needs.
- Worked with POS system to place orders, manage bills, and handle complimentary items.
- Collaborated with team members during busy shifts for efficient workflow and excellent guest experiences.
Education
Associate of Arts - Culinary and Management
Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts
Boulder, CO01.2023
Skills
- Supply Ordering and Restocking
- Forecast Preparation
- Safety and Sanitation Standards
- Food Allergen Safety
- Recipe Scaling
- Scheduling
- Training management
- Quality control
- Menu development
- Food cost analysis
Certification
- ServeSafe, 01/25
- Allergen training
Stages
Aquerello
Atelier Crenn
Elske
Timeline
Lead Line Cook
Frasca Food & Wine
03.2023 - Current
Line Cook
Mercantile Dining & Provision
11.2022 - 05.2023
Veterinary Technician
Foothills Animal Hospital
06.2020 - 02.2022
Bar Manager
Tag Restaurant Group
08.2016 - 02.2019
Server/Bartender/Line Cook
Cucina Colore
06.2016 - 07.2017
Server/Bartender/Line Cook
Mellow Mushroom
02.2013 - 05.2016
Server/Bartender
Brule Bistro
06.2011 - 02.2013
Server/Lead Line Cook
Wave 3000
05.2011 - 01.2012
Server
Millers Ale House Bar and Grill
05.2010 - 05.2011
Server/Line Cook
Marco Movies
08.2006 - 05.2010
Associate of Arts - Culinary and Management
Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts
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