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 Nico Rachiteanu who currently works at Beach House Restaurant in Wales.
Nico was nominated by Hywel Griffith, head chef, Beach House Restaurant, who said: "Nico has been a part of the Beach House family since day one and is an important member of the team. I wanted to nominate him for KP of the month just to show him how appreciated he is! It’s brilliant for him to get recognition like this."
Hywel Griffith and
Nico Rachiteanu
Career as a KP
How long have you worked at Beach House Restaurant for?
Since it opened, so one year and four months.
Why did you want to be a KP?
I moved closer to the area and needed a job, the opportunity came up and I took it.
Are you interested in cooking or happy to stay as a KP?
I’m happy as KP for now, but I am interested in the cooking side. We are a really small team so I’m exposed to a lot in the kitchen which I enjoy.
Working at Beach House Restaurant
What is it like to work at Beach House Restaurant, and what is Hywel like as a boss?
The Beach House is a unique place. I get to look at the sea every day which can’t be bad. Hywel is a great leader and we are all looked after. Very good!
As a KP, what’s the most annoying thing chefs do in the kitchen?
There honestly isn’t really anything that bothers me.
Is there anything chefs could do to make your life easier?
Have more plates so I’m not under pressure to get them cleaned!
KP Heaven and Hell
Heaven
The tips are really good!
Hell
Polishing cutlery
And do you get to try the food? That must be a perk!
We try every dish that goes on the menu which I love. Our restaurant won Restaurant of the Year for Wales at the recent AA awards and I got to go to the awards ceremony in London, which was a real perk!
Do you have a favourite dish you have tried at the restaurant?
Ty Siriol Pork belly. I also like a lot of the fish dishes.
Would you encourage other chefs to nominate and celebrate their KPs?
Yes, I’m honoured that our chef nominated me. It's Very kind.
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