Just realized that a quick chat before service stops most kitchen fights

I saw cooks arguing over station duties every night during the rush. So, I made a rule where we all meet for two minutes before the doors open. We say what we need help with and who is covering what. Like, if someone is swamped with sauté, another person knows to step in. This tiny talk has cut down on yelling and wasted time. Now, our crew feels more like a unit, and service goes smoother.

3 comments

3 Comments

patriciabaker3mo ago

Do you ever find that two minutes isn't quite enough time for that talk? I've seen similar things work, but sometimes you need a few extra minutes, especially if there's a new special or someone called out sick. How do you handle it on those more complicated nights?

johnh823mo ago

Honestly, my two minute talk usually goes off the rails if we're down a person. Last time I totally blanked and just pointed at the specials board like it was rocket science.

abbyr963mo ago

I mean when you need "a few extra minutes" on those nights, maybe a full five. Idk my talk just turns into pointing at things and hoping someone gets it.