Careers in Hospitality & Cookery
Waiters or Waitresses will be busy looking after the needs of diners in restaurants, clubs, hotels and cafes. They will explain the menu, take orders, serve food and drinks and anticipate their client’s needs. Clearing tables, polishing cutlery and assisting in the restocking of food and drinks is also part of the everyday duties.
Preparing, serving and selling fresh food and drinks are the skills of a Food counter assistant. Food counter assistants will also be answering questions from customers about the food on display, checking to ensure food is kept fresh and at a safe temperature, managing the till, weighing, pricing and packing orders, and managing staff and work rosters.
Maitre d' are responsible for the overall smooth running of a restaurant or café. They greet customers as they arrive, organise their seating, introduce them to their waiter, and ensure their dining experience goes without a hitch. They supervise the staff, check bills, order stock, and organise the cleaning and closing of the restaurant each evening.
Chefs prepare and cook food in hotels, restaurants, cafes, and bars. They could also be involved in designing, planning and pricing menus, training and supervising staff, buying food supplies and equipment, keeping records, and keeping work areas clean and tidy.
Caterers manage and co-ordinate the preparation of food for functions or events. They could help cook the food, meet with clients to plan the event, co-ordinate staff, organise seating and any additional equipment needed, packup after the event, and do administrative tasks such as billing.
