Moto

[RAS1187]

Greetings to all the Chefs out there,

I recently inquired about positions at Moto restaurant, Exective Chef Homaro Cantu. I am sure that someone here is familiar with Chef Cantu's work and the cuisine at Moto.

He replied to my application, inviting me for a 2-day stage. I have to wonder what exactly a 2-day stage is. I can imagine I would be expected to cook, what would I make for a chef that cooks with liquid nitrogen and a surgical grade laser?

Anything useful that I can use would be greatly appreciated, thank you all!

[cheflayne]

If you are asked to prepare something to show your knowledge and skill level, I would stick to what you are most comfortable with. In a situation such as this, it is probably not so much about what you prepare, as it is about how you prepare it. I would imagine he will be looking for many things, but I don't think creativity will be one of them or at least not high on the priority list.

[RAS1187]

I was thinking the same thing... I did not apply for anything that I felt was over my head. I asked if he needed any help with introductory prep/line work, and he replied the next day asking me to join him for 2 days. Other then cooking, what else would I have to expect on a "2-day stage"?

I want to show him that I have a good handle of the basic cooking methods that eventually translate into all the complicated and innovative methods that he uses in the kitchen.

[cheflayne]

I would imagine you will shadow someone in their station. It is like your first day of work, except you haven't been hired.
Be early.
Ask for copy of menu.
Take notes.
Ask questions, not just about dishes, but also about philosophy of food and work.
Keep all talk, work related.
Watch and listen, and not just in the station that you are in, take in big picture.
Hustle, work as quickly as safety allows.
Stay busy.
Clean as you go.
When no specific tasks, clean.
Don't offer advice.
Be humble and respectful.
At end of day thank coworkers and chef.

[ChefRon]

Send a Thank You card to the chef for the opportunity he provided at the conclusion of your stage. That's impressive. In fact, I do that at the conclusion of any job interview.

-Ron