Tell us about a time when you had to come up with a creative solution to a problem in the kitchen.

Sample answer to the question

One time, we had a shortage of fresh lemons in the kitchen just before a big event. We needed the lemons to make a popular dish, so we couldn't just substitute it with something else. I had to think quickly and come up with a creative solution. I remembered that we had some preserved lemons in the pantry that were leftover from a previous menu. I decided to use them as a substitute. I made a few adjustments to the dish, incorporating the preserved lemons into the recipe. The end result was a delicious and unique version of the dish that our guests loved. It was a great lesson in thinking outside the box and making the most of the resources available.

A more solid answer

I faced a challenging situation in the kitchen when we ran out of a key ingredient, fresh lemons, right before a big event. This ingredient was crucial for a popular dish on our menu, and substituting it was not an option. To find a solution, I quickly assessed our inventory and remembered that we had some preserved lemons leftover from a previous menu. I decided to use them as a substitute and adjusted the recipe accordingly. The result was a unique and delicious dish that our guests loved. Not only did this creative solution save the day, but it also showcased our ability to adapt and innovate in the face of unexpected challenges.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides more specific details about the situation and the candidate's actions. It also highlights the impact of the creative solution, showcasing the candidate's ability to think on their feet and come up with innovative ideas.

An exceptional answer

In the fast-paced environment of a busy kitchen, unexpected challenges are bound to arise. One such instance was when we realized that our delivery of fresh lemons, a key ingredient for a popular dish, was delayed and we were running out of time to prepare for a high-profile event. Understanding the importance of this dish and the need for a creative solution, I quickly assessed our inventory and realized we had some preserved lemons from a previous menu. I decided to experiment and use them in the recipe. I adjusted the dish by incorporating the preserved lemons and adding complementary ingredients to enhance the flavor profile. The end result was a remarkable success. The preserved lemons imparted a unique tanginess to the dish, elevating it to a whole new level. This creative solution not only showcased our ability to think outside the box but also demonstrated our commitment to delivering exceptional culinary experiences to our guests, even in challenging circumstances.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer provides even more specific details and paints a vivid picture of the challenging situation in the kitchen. It highlights the candidate's ability to assess the situation, take calculated risks, and create an exceptional outcome. The answer also emphasizes the impact of the creative solution on the overall guest experience.

How to prepare for this question

Reflect on past experiences in the kitchen where you had to come up with creative solutions to problems. Think about situations that required you to think outside the box and adapt quickly.
Consider the specific skills and qualities mentioned in the job description, such as exceptional cooking skills and ability to experiment. Reflect on how these skills can be applied to problem-solving in the kitchen.
Research different techniques and methods used in culinary innovation and experimentation. Familiarize yourself with current food trends and best practices.
Practice storytelling and articulating your experiences effectively. Prepare specific examples and anecdotes that showcase your creativity and problem-solving skills in the kitchen. Practice delivering these stories in a concise and engaging manner.

What interviewers are evaluating

Creative thinking and problem-solving skills