Quaina Grace Reid
Baltimore
Summary
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
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Sous Chef
Compass Group Management
Catonsville
08.2015 - Current
- Prepared variety of foods according to exact instructions and recipe specifications.
- Ensured food preparation and presentation met high standards of quality and sanitation.
- Assisted in menu development and recipe testing.
- Directed kitchen staff in day-to-day operations including food production, sanitation, safety practices, and personnel management.
- Trained new hires in proper cooking techniques and recipes.
- Supervised cooks and other kitchen personnel during meal services.
- Performed weekly inspections of all equipment for safety compliance.
- Complied with all health department regulations regarding proper food handling methods.
- Adjusted recipes as needed to accommodate dietary restrictions or allergies.
- Created a positive work environment by encouraging teamwork among staff members.
- Resolved conflicts between kitchen staff members in an efficient manner.
- Enforced portion control guidelines to minimize costs associated with overproduction.
- Conducted regular performance reviews with line cooks while providing constructive feedback where necessary.
- Supervised kitchen food preparation in demanding, high-volume environments.
- Trained kitchen workers on culinary techniques.
- Plated food according to restaurant artistic guidelines to promote attractive presentation.
- Communicated effectively with wait staff regarding patron food allergies and dietary restrictions.
- Chopped and diced vegetables and fruits to stock fridge ahead of busy periods.
- Prepared workstations with ingredients and tools to increase efficiency.
- Monitored temperatures of prepared food and cold-storage areas.
- Created tasty dishes using popular recipes, delighting patrons and generating return business.
- Observed food safety and sanitation protocols to reduce germ spread.
- Supervised food preparation staff to deliver high-quality results.
- Cleaned and sanitized kitchen equipment, utensils and work stations.
- Trained and supervised line cooks to develop new skills and improve team performance.
- Created diverse cuisines for full restaurant, special event, catering and tasting menus.
Lead Cook
Compass Group USA
Catonsville
08.2015 - Current
- Supervised staff in daily kitchen duties, including prepping ingredients, cooking meals, and cleaning up after service.
- Ensured compliance with health safety regulations while preparing meals and maintaining a sanitary work environment.
- Trained new cooks on proper techniques for preparing dishes according to recipes.
- Monitored quality of all cooked items throughout the day to guarantee high standards were maintained.
- Adjusted recipes as needed to accommodate dietary restrictions or allergies of customers.
- Oversaw food preparation processes to ensure that orders were completed accurately and efficiently.
- Collaborated with management team to develop new recipes and update existing ones in order to improve the overall dining experience.
- Conducted periodic inventories of kitchen equipment, utensils, and supplies to determine restocking needs.
- Evaluated customer feedback regarding taste, presentation, temperature accuracy, speed of service.
- Inspected kitchen areas regularly for cleanliness; instructed staff members on sanitation protocols when necessary.
- Provided guidance during meal rushes in order to maintain an organized workflow within the kitchen area.
- Kept stations stocked and ready for use to maximize productivity.
- Washed, sliced, peeled and cut various foods to prepare for cooking or serving.
- Prepared dishes in fast-paced environment working with teammates to maintain high customer satisfaction rate.
- Completed workstation set up and break down, properly disposing of leftover food.
- Trained new chefs on menu items and kitchen procedures.
- Discussed safe operations of kitchen equipment, regulating temperatures and cooking times.
- Implemented food quality specifications through menu planning, plate presentation, and quality checks.
- Grilled and deep fried various foods from meats to potatoes.
- Observed and tested food to determine whether food was cooked sufficiently and according to recipes.
- Analyzed forecast sheets and production plans to prepare ingredients for daily menu.
- Filled specialized menu orders.
- Assisted Sous Chef with training and development of culinary staff.
- Served as lead cook, guiding and assisting training of less experienced cooks.
- Kept kitchen, cooking utensils and storeroom clean and neat.
- Cleaned and sanitized work stations and equipment, complying with regulatory procedures.
- Communicated with kitchen employees, answered questions and offered insight into food preparations.
- Cut, chopped and sliced meat and produce to prepare for cooking.
- Followed recipes and procedures to prepare, season and cook food products.
- Followed "first in, first out" rule with every food and beverage item, tossing outdated and expired food products.
- Sanitized counters and utensils used for preparation of raw meat, poultry, fish and eggs.
- Operated variety of kitchen equipment to measure and mix ingredients.
- Checked freezer and refrigerator each day to verify proper functioning.
- Trained kitchen workers on culinary techniques.
- Taught kitchen staff about proper nutrition, food allergies and dietary issues.
Catering Cook
Compass Group USA
Catonsville
08.2015 - Current
- Prepared and cooked food items according to recipes and instructions.
- Cleaned, sanitized, and organized kitchen equipment, surfaces, utensils, dishes, and small wares.
- Transported hot and cold foods to catering events in a timely manner.
- Ensured proper food safety and sanitation procedures were followed at all times.
- Assisted with menu planning for special occasions or functions.
- Monitored inventory of ingredients necessary for food preparation.
- Set up buffet-style meals for large groups of people at catered events.
- Maintained accurate records of food items used during catering events.
- Collaborated with chefs to develop creative menus for catering clients.
- Kept track of expiration dates on ingredients stored in the kitchen pantry.
- Adjusted oven temperatures and cooking times as needed throughout meal preparation.
- Organized storage areas to maximize space efficiency while maintaining cleanliness.
- Demonstrated excellent knife skills when cutting vegetables or meats for recipes.
- Worked with chef to complete dishes on schedule and in line with exacting presentation and taste standards.
- Prepared and maintained buffet and salad bar by checking temperatures, restocking food and monitoring potential avenues of contamination.
- Used such cooking processes as charbroiling, sautéing, braising, roasting and par cooking to create delicious dishes.
- Prepared banquet meals according to standard recipes and customer preferences.
- Sanitized workstation at end of shift to minimize risk of salmonella and other food-borne illnesses.
- Maintained clean and orderly appearance throughout kitchen and dining area.
Food Service Worker
Compass Group USA
Catonsville
08.2015 - Current
- Served meals to customers in a friendly and courteous manner.
- Greeted customers upon arrival in the dining area.
- Maintained cleanliness standards for all service areas including dining room, kitchen and storage areas.
- Checked temperatures of freezers, refrigerators and heating equipment to ensure proper functioning.
- Replenished condiments at customer tables as needed.
- Responded promptly to customer inquiries regarding menu items or special requests.
- Followed established cash handling procedures when collecting payment from customers.
- Performed opening and closing duties such as setting up workstations with necessary supplies.
- Organized take-out orders for customers who requested them.
- Operated dishwashing machines safely and efficiently.
- Properly stored all leftover food items after each shift.
- Utilized point-of-sale systems for taking orders from customers.
- Assisted with unloading deliveries from suppliers into storage areas.
- Followed food safety regulations pertaining to sanitation, food handling and storage.
- Operated cash register to process cash, check, and credit card transactions.
- Cleaned and sanitized work areas, equipment, utensils, dishes, and silverware.
- Performed variety of duties related to food service.
- Maintained order and cleanliness of work areas to conform with health codes.
- Maintained professional demeanor during interactions with customers and co-workers.
- Mopped floors and cleaned walk-in refrigerators and storage areas to maintain hygienic, sanitized work area.
- Set up, restocked and cleaned dining areas.
- Monitored inventory to keep adequate stock of food items and supplies.
- Followed recipes and customer requests to prepare meals.
- Prevented spoilage and cross-contamination by storing food in designated containers and storage areas.
- Gathered ingredients and cleaned and cut food items to prep recipes.
- Maintained safe food handling practices to prevent germ spread.
- Welcomed and thanked guests to demonstrate appreciation for patronage.
- Refilled condiments, napkins and server workstations.
- Packaged and bagged cooked food and prepared items.
- Made meals in accordance with company standards and requirements.
- Operated kitchen equipment in alignment with OSHA protocols and manufacturer instructions.
- Prepared workstations with ingredients and tools to increase efficiency.
- Monitored temperatures of prepared food and cold-storage areas.
Shift Leader
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
Baltimore
05.2013 - 05.2015
- Provided exceptional customer service and maintained a positive attitude throughout the shift.
- Ensured staff was properly trained on all aspects of their job duties, including safety protocols.
- Monitored employee performance to ensure compliance with company policies and procedures.
- Assisted in training new employees on shift operations.
- Resolved customer complaints promptly and professionally.
- Maintained an organized work environment by delegating tasks to staff as needed.
- Inspected food preparation areas to ensure proper sanitation standards were met at all times.
- Verified that cash drawers contained correct amounts of money during opening and closing shifts.
- Confirmed accuracy of daily sales reports before submitting them to management for review.
- Adhered to all health code regulations while preparing food items for customers.
- Managed inventory levels by monitoring stock levels, ordering supplies when necessary, and ensuring product quality was up to standard prior to use or sale.
- Supervised the cleaning of dining areas, restrooms, kitchen equipment, floors., in order to maintain a safe and sanitary environment for customers and staff alike.
- Handled customer inquiries in a timely manner while providing accurate information regarding menu items and promotions.
- Enforced safety guidelines among staff members in order to prevent accidents or injuries from occurring on the premises.
- Communicated effectively with other departments within the organization regarding staffing needs or operational issues.
- Counted cash on hand at shift change and closing to determine shortages or overages and prepare bank deposit statements.
- Supervised and led employees to maintain productivity and customer service levels.
- Handled escalated customer concerns and emergencies in absence of manager or supervisor.
- Delegated tasks to employees and monitored activities and task completion.
- Checked orders for quality and completeness.
- Educated customers about offerings, promotions and pricing to boost sales.
- Mentored and coached staff by giving employees suggestions and feedback to improve job performance.
- Upheld company standards and compliance requirements for operations.
- Operated cash registers and balanced cash drawers to ensure accuracy in transactions.
- Design and Created Icecream Cakes Blizzards and other icecream treats
Bartender
Northwood Lounge
Baltimore
07.2012 - 11.2012
- Greeted customers and provided excellent customer service.
- Prepared alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages according to recipe standards.
- Ensured proper sanitation of bar area, glassware, utensils, and equipment.
- Maintained inventory of liquor, beer, wine, and other beverage items.
- Provided drink suggestions to customers based on their preferences.
- Processed payments accurately and efficiently with POS system.
- Assisted in setting up the bar for service shift.
- Kept track of all orders made by customers and communicated them promptly to kitchen staff.
- Stocked ice bins and coolers as needed throughout shift.
- Monitored guests' alcohol consumption levels to prevent over-intoxication or underage drinking.
- Cleansed glasses with sanitizing solution after each use.
- Resolved customer complaints in a professional manner.
- Organized storeroom inventory of supplies such as cups, napkins, straws.
- Performed opening and closing duties including restocking supplies.
- Adhered to state regulations regarding serving alcohol responsibly.
- Followed safety protocols while handling sharp tools or dangerous chemicals.
- Managed cash drawer at the end of each shift ensuring accuracy of funds received.
- Developed good working relationships with fellow employees through effective communication.
- Checked identification cards for proof of age prior to serving alcohol beverages.
- Operated cash register and Point of Sale (POS) system for transactions and made proper change for cash transactions.
- Mixed and served both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks for patrons by following standard recipes and procedures.
- Maintained knowledge of bar and menu options to prepare drinks and make food recommendations.
- Prepared cocktails from bar recipes and served wine, draft and bottled beer.
- Poured wine, beer and cocktails for patrons.
- Recommended food and drinks to patrons based on preference, pairings and special promotions.
- Effectively multitasked within fast-paced environment.
- Greeted guests with friendliness and professionalism.
- Neatly sliced and pitted fruit for garnishing drinks.
Room Service Attendant
Embassy Suites
Hunt Valley
01.2008 - 06.2009
- Greeted guests upon arrival and provided a friendly, accommodating service.
- Assisted in the preparation of room service orders according to hotel standards.
- Delivered food items to guest rooms in a timely manner.
- Inspected all food items for accuracy prior to delivery.
- Responded promptly to customer inquiries and requests for assistance.
- Ensured that all dining areas were properly stocked with necessary supplies such as napkins, condiments, and utensils.
- Verified orders against invoices to ensure accuracy of deliveries.
- Ensured proper handling of all cash transactions while on duty.
- Maintained cleanliness of work area throughout shift including counters and tables.
- Replenished linens, towels and guest amenities in accordance with established standards.
- Provided exceptional customer service by addressing guest needs in a professional manner.
- Followed safety procedures when handling hot plates or trays during delivery process.
- Maintained accurate records of transactions related to room service orders.
- Assisted with the setup of banquet events as needed.
- Performed daily inventory checks of equipment and supplies used for room service operations.
- Checked the condition of all linens, china, silverware and glassware prior to use.
- Complied with all company policies and procedures relating to room service operations.
- Resolved any customer complaints quickly and efficiently in order to maintain high levels of satisfaction.
- Performed cleaning duties and removed trays from hotel rooms.
- Delivered pleasant guest experiences with friendly service and caring demeanor.
- Practiced food safety and sanitation habits and followed compliance requirements.
- Maintained clean, neat and professional uniform to promote positive corporate image.
- Set up, delivered and retrieved food and beverage orders to guest rooms and hospitality suites.
- Took telephone orders, billed items to rooms and communicated orders to kitchen.
- Assessed quality of food and beverage products prior to delivery.
- Followed up with guests regarding order quality to satisfaction.
- Completed many guest orders by phone daily.
- Prepared for busy periods by restocking stations and maintaining clean work areas.
- Filled trays with food, utensils, napkins and condiments to provide diners with meals and accessories.
- Upheld exceptional food, beverage and service standards to surpass customer expectations.
- Stocked server areas with supplies before, during and after shifts.
- Stocked service stations with ice, napkins and straws.
- Removed trays and stacked dishes for return to kitchen after finished meals.
- Used clear communication to relay food and drink orders to kitchen staff.
- Served food and beverages to customers.
- Totaled checks and used cash register to accept payment for services.
Sales Associate
DSW Shoes
Hunt Valley
09.2007 - 12.2007
- Greeted customers and provided exceptional customer service.
- Assisted customers with product selection, sizing and styling.
- Provided accurate information about products, prices and services.
- Processed transactions using a point-of-sale system.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of store merchandise and policies.
- Built relationships with customers to encourage repeat business.
- Organized stockroom shelves according to size, color or style.
- Restocked shelves as needed to ensure sufficient inventory levels.
- Handled customer complaints in a professional manner.
- Developed promotional strategies to increase sales volume.
- Performed cashier duties such as accepting payments, issuing receipts and counting money back change.
- Maintained cleanliness of store environment including floors, windows, displays.
- Helped customers find specific products, answered questions, and offered product advice.
- Answered incoming telephone calls to provide store, products and services information.
- Collected payments and provided accurate change.
- Adhered to company initiatives and achieved established goals.
- Greeted customers to determine wants or needs.
- Cleaned shelves, counters and tables to maintain organized store.
- Organized store by returning merchandise to proper areas and restocked displays.
- Opened and closed cash registers by counting money, separating charge slips and balancing drawers.
Education
High School Diploma -
Doris M.Johnson
2801 St.LO Drive06-2007
Skills
- Portion Control
- Menu Memorization
- Customer Service
- Food Preparation
- Food Safety
- Farm to table
- Foodservice
- Safe Food Handling
- Cooking techniques
- Knife Skills
- Sauce preparation
- Mentoring and Coaching
- Team Leadership
- Safety Management
- Food presentation
- Catering background
- Kitchen Management
Accomplishments
- Employee Of the Month Oct 2015
- Be a Star Employee of the Year 2019
- UMBC Pro Chef Series
Affiliations
- JROTC
- Drama Club
- Tutoring
- Principals List
- Honor Role
- Law Program
- Senior Class Secretary
- First Job at 14 yrs old at Holiday Inner Harbor
References
References available upon request.
Certification
- Serve Safe Certification
Timeline
Sous Chef
Compass Group Management
08.2015 - Current
Lead Cook
Compass Group USA
08.2015 - Current
Catering Cook
Compass Group USA
08.2015 - Current
Food Service Worker
Compass Group USA
08.2015 - Current
Shift Leader
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
05.2013 - 05.2015
Bartender
Northwood Lounge
07.2012 - 11.2012
Room Service Attendant
Embassy Suites
01.2008 - 06.2009
Sales Associate
DSW Shoes
09.2007 - 12.2007
High School Diploma -
Doris M.Johnson