Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Ben Derringer

Ben Derringer

Paso Robles

Summary

A seasoned culinary professional, I elevated Calcareous Vineyard's menu with innovative dishes, enhancing customer satisfaction and repeat business. Skilled in menu development and kitchen operations management, I excel in creating memorable dining experiences through meticulous attention to detail and effective team leadership. My expertise in special diets and food presentation ensures diverse and appealing culinary creations.

Overview

15
15
years of professional experience

Work History

Contract Chef

Oak & Vine Catering Co.
04.2020 - Current


  • Prepared meals from scratch using authentic, popular recipes to generate repeat business.
  • Maintained well-organized mise en place to keep work consistent.
  • Oversaw grill, stove, and oven, and cleaned equipment after every shift.
  • Monitored line processes to maintain consistency in quality, quantity, and presentation.
  • Responded to dietary concerns and food allergies, creating dishes to meet customer needs and palates.
  • Trained and mentored new staff members in kitchen safety, sanitation and cooking techniques.
  • Participated in food tastings and taste tests.
  • Worked closely with front-of-house staff to facilitate excellent customer service.

Executive Chef Manager

Calcareous Vineyard
12.2023 - 10.2024
  • Placed food orders with suppliers on a daily basis, taking into account kitchen budget and expected demands.
  • Developed kitchen staff through training, disciplinary action, and performance reviews.
  • Maintained high food quality standards by checking delivery contents to verify product quality and quantity.
  • Recruited and hired employees to build an effective culinary team for $500,000 annual revenue-producing restaurant.
  • Created and executed menus for 300+ individuals
  • Changed and created an entire new menu every quarter

Executive Sous Chef

Cass Winery
06.2010 - 08.2017
  • Inventoried food, ingredient, and supply stock to prepare and plan vendor orders.
  • Delivered excellent food quality and maximized customer satisfaction by preparing meals according to customer requests.
  • Maintained high food quality standards by checking delivery contents to verify product quality and quantity.
  • Oversaw business operations, inventory control, and customer service for restaurant.

Education

High School Diploma -

San Luis Obispo High School
San Luis Obispo, CA
06-2003

Skills

  • Menu development
  • Cooking techniques
  • Special diets
  • Food presentation
  • Verbal and written communication
  • Food and beverage pairing
  • Knife skills
  • Signature dish creation
  • Fine-dining expertise
  • Kitchen operations management
  • Purchasing
  • Attention to detail

Timeline

Executive Chef Manager

Calcareous Vineyard
12.2023 - 10.2024

Contract Chef

Oak & Vine Catering Co.
04.2020 - Current

Executive Sous Chef

Cass Winery
06.2010 - 08.2017

High School Diploma -

San Luis Obispo High School
Ben Derringer