Hi everyone. Last November I commited occupational suicide by moving from NY to Massachusetts. I lost my job at a Bed-Stuy bar in September, worked briefly for a couple of dodgy and questionable establishments, left those establishments then had a five alarm freak-out. That's when I moved to Boston-with the delusion of finding affordable housing and a job easily. That never happened. What's frustrating is that when I arrived in Boston I started getting emails and phone calls from NYC restaurants for interviews. Don't get me wrong; I absolutely love NYC. If I worked it out with my landlord (who was flexible and understanding) and I exercised a bit of patience I would definitely still be there.
Anyways, I need to cut my losses here in Mass. and move back to NY. My only concern is a repeat of my last experience in NYC. Here was my NYC culinary experience: First time restaurant owners with NO culinary experience and a giant cocaine habit who are unable to commit to their financial obligations (vendors, employees etc.), management that are unable to retain their chefs and thereby transferring chef duties to cooks when the chef leaves (inventory, ordering etc.); and if a cook forgets or refuses the extra duties they are terminated; chefs that tell you at then end of your second shift that you are still trailing and he hasn't made any decisions yet. How do I avoid these establishments? What are the signs of an inexperienced owner/manager? I have been a line cook and prep cook since 1994 and my background is mostly bar/comfort food. I would like to upgrade to bistro style dining. I don't have NYC fine dining experience or formal training but have been told what I lack in technique, I make up for in work ethics. Besides when I trailed at Tribeca Grill last year the chef suggested I avoid fine dining establishments because they are either dead or dying. I'am willing to commit to even an entry-level position as long as it's a good, stable company that I can grow and advance within. Any advice would be greatly, greatly appreciated! Thank you.
