Kitchen Porter of the Month: Marcus Luchmun, Gather and Gather
We feature some of the best chefs in the world on The Staff Canteen but where would they be without their kitchen porter?
We thought it was time to celebrate the unsung heroes of the kitchen in a new monthly feature, KP of the Month, and this month it is Marcus Luchmun who currently works at Gather and Gather in London.
Marcus was nominated by Operations Manager, Lynne Christie-Deutsch who said: "He’s got a great attitude and is a real support to the rest of the team. Nothing is too much trouble, and if there’s something he finds difficult he puts a huge amount of effort in to find a way to get it done."
Career as a KP
How long have you worked at Gather and Gather for?
I started on February 29, 2016.
Why did you want to be a KP?
It’s the kind of job I knew I’d be good at and knew I’ll get the right support to achieve it.
Are you interested in cooking or happy to stay as a KP?
Yes, but I’d prefer front of house. The only thing holding me back is I’m worried about reading and writing. I’d give front or back of house a go, as long as there was no reading and writing involved.
Working at Gather and Gather
What is it like to work at Gather and Gather, and what is Rob like as a boss?
Very good. I get great support and understanding. Lynn Parker, our operations support manager, helped me pass my food hygiene and health and safety certificate; that was brilliant the way she did that with me. Head chef, Rob Frost helps me out and gives great advice. For example: If something happens that makes me behind with my work, Rob will jump in and help wash dishes, or clean the floor. He’s a brilliant boss.
As a KP, what’s the most annoying thing chefs do in the kitchen?
Leaving a mess on the floor. They’re great at cleaning their benches down, but why do they clean the debris on to the floor? I’m not complaining though.
Is there anything chefs could do to make your life easier?
No, cause they’re so good already. We all just help each other out.
And do you get to try the food? That must be a perk!
Yes I get to try the food. We all do. It’s important to know what it’s like, in case a customer asks us our opinion.
Do you have a favourite dish you have tried at the restaurant?
I prefer savoury dishes to sweet. I love the salads we make. The super salad is brilliant.
Would you encourage other chefs to nominate and celebrate their KPs?
Yes. Everybody has their own role and they must all work together. If one link of the team is missing it doesn’t work as well. We all link together to ensure the food is on the counter on time.
If you want us to feature your KP email michael@thestaffcanteen.com
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