Thomas Miller
Norfolk
Summary
Adept Sous Chef with a proven track record at TULU Seaside Bar and Grill, showcasing exceptional culinary techniques and kitchen management. Elevates food quality and team productivity through innovative meal preparation and effective team leadership. Mastered kitchen organization and food safety (serve safe certified), significantly enhancing dining experiences and operational efficiency.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Sous Chef
Tulu Seaside Bar and Grille
01.2025 - Current
- Managed food preparation tasks during high-volume service periods, ensuring all orders were executed in a timely manner without sacrificing quality or presentation standards.
- Trained kitchen staff to perform various preparation tasks under pressure.
- Planned and directed high-volume food preparation in fast-paced environment.
- Managed inventory levels effectively, resulting in reduced food waste and cost savings for the establishment.
- Collaborated with executive chef to develop innovative menu items, leading to increased guest return rates and positive reviews.
- Mentored junior kitchen staff, fostering a collaborative work environment that improved overall team performance.
- Implemented proper cleaning procedures, ensuring a safe and sanitary kitchen workspace compliant with health department regulations.
- Increased kitchen productivity by optimizing workflow processes and delegating tasks appropriately within the team.
- Collaborated closely with head chef to develop recipes that significantly increased customer satisfaction.
- Monitored food production to verify quality and consistency.
- Trained and mentored new staff members in kitchen safety, sanitation and cooking techniques.
- Evaluated food products to verify freshness and quality.
- Modified recipes to accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies.
- Developed new recipes and flavor combinations to enhance customer dining experience.
Lead Cook
TULU Seaside Bar and Grill
03.2023 - 01.2025
- Efficiently handled high-volume orders while maintaining superior food quality through precise execution of cooking methods.
- Maintained a high standard of food quality by consistently reviewing dishes for taste, presentation, and adherence to established guidelines.
- Took over line positions in event of emergency.
- Enhanced kitchen efficiency by streamlining cooking processes and implementing time-saving techniques.
- Ensure that the fish ordering and bulk prep list are completed.
- Ensure the jolt is completed.
- Maintain positive energy and high morale throughout the team during service.
- Assist in training new members on the team and evaluating their skill set to maximize production.
- Collaborate with the chef on new specials ideas while keeping within the restaurant's guidelines.
Line Cook
Vintage Tavern ~ Seasonally Southern
05.2022 - 02.2023
- Adapted quickly to new recipes and techniques, demonstrating versatility and eagerness to learn from colleagues.
- Prepared and cooked full course meals based on restaurant recipes and specifications.
- Prepared food items such as meats, poultry, and fish for frying purposes.
- Upheld strict sanitation standards while preparing meals, maintaining a clean workspace free of cross-contamination risks.
- Checked food temperature regularly to verify proper cooking and safety.
- Expedited service during peak hours by coordinating with fellow line cooks on timing of dish completion.
- Maintained well-stocked stations with supplies and spices for maximum productivity.
- Maintained consistent portion control, ensuring uniformity in presentation and reducing food waste.
- Assisted in inventory management by accurately tracking supplies and placing orders as needed.
- Mastered various cooking techniques, broadening menu offerings and introducing innovative dishes.
- Improved team morale and productivity through effective communication and collaboration.
Line Cook
Surry Seafood
06.2021 - 06.2022
- Maintained a clean workspace and assisted other team members with cleaning.
- Provided quick and efficient work in the kitchen to ensure smooth service.
- Adapted quickly to new recipes and techniques, demonstrating versatility and eagerness to learn from colleagues.
- Plated and presented all dishes to match established restaurant standards.
- Demonstrated proficiency in using various kitchen equipment safely for efficient food preparation.
- Improved team morale and productivity through effective communication and collaboration.
Line Cook
Smithfield Station
03.2020 - 03.2022
- 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.
- Prepared and cooked full course meals based on restaurant recipes and specifications.
- Plated and presented all dishes to match established restaurant standards.
- Boosted employee morale through positive attitude, willingness to assist others when needed.
Marine Infantryman
Military
06.2014 - 03.2020
- Collaborated effectively with interdisciplinary teams to achieve desired outcomes in complex problem-solving scenarios.
- Enabled rapid response capabilities by coordinating logistics support for deployment readiness exercises and real-world contingencies.
- Streamlined communication processes for increased efficiency during high-stress operations.
- Demonstrated resilience under pressure by consistently performing at a high level despite challenging conditions or unforeseen obstacles.
- Participated in humanitarian assistance missions, delivering critical aid supplies to disaster-stricken communities.
- Established strong working relationships with local authorities for improved coordination during joint operations.
- Developed junior Marines into future leaders through consistent mentorship and professional development opportunities.
Education
Indian River High
Chesapeake, VA06.2014
Skills
- Meal preparation
- Kitchen management
- Food safety
- Kitchen organization
- Culinary techniques
- Team leadership
- Decision-making
- Attention to detail
- Creative thinking
- Kitchen leadership
- Inventory management
- Safe food handling
- Allergen awareness
- Cooking techniques
- Knife skills
- Menu development
- Butchery skills
- Cost control
- Employee scheduling
- Plating
- Recipe creation
Certification
serve safe
Timeline
Sous Chef
Tulu Seaside Bar and Grille
01.2025 - Current
Lead Cook
TULU Seaside Bar and Grill
03.2023 - 01.2025
Line Cook
Vintage Tavern ~ Seasonally Southern
05.2022 - 02.2023
Line Cook
Surry Seafood
06.2021 - 06.2022
Line Cook
Smithfield Station
03.2020 - 03.2022
Marine Infantryman
Military
06.2014 - 03.2020
Indian River High
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