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JUNIOR LEVEL

Can you provide an example of a dish you created or a menu you designed? What made it innovative and creative?

Head Chef Interview Questions
Can you provide an example of a dish you created or a menu you designed? What made it innovative and creative?

Sample answer to the question

Yes, I can definitely provide an example of a dish I created. One of my most innovative and creative dishes is a deconstructed apple pie. I took the traditional flavors of apple pie and reimagined it in a modern way. Instead of a traditional crust, I made a crispy phyllo dough nest and filled it with a spiced apple compote and a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream. To add a touch of elegance, I drizzled caramel sauce and sprinkled cinnamon sugar on top. The dish was a hit with customers as it captured the essence of apple pie but in a unique and visually appealing presentation.

A more solid answer

Absolutely! I would love to share an example of a dish I recently created that truly showcased my innovative and creative approach to menu design. It was a dish called 'Salmon Three Ways'. I took a fresh salmon fillet and prepared it three different ways to create a multi-dimensional flavor experience. Firstly, I pan-seared a portion of the salmon and served it with a tangy lemon and dill sauce, complemented by a bed of roasted asparagus. The second portion was cured with a blend of spices and herbs, resulting in a delicate gravlax. I paired the gravlax with a light mustard and honey vinaigrette and a side of pickled cucumber. Lastly, I smoked a portion of the salmon using applewood chips, giving it a rich and smoky flavor. I served the smoked salmon on a bed of creamy dill-infused mashed potatoes. The dish not only showcased my technical culinary skills but also demonstrated my ability to think outside the box and create unique flavor combinations that surprise and delight the diner.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides a specific example of a dish created by the candidate and explains in detail how it was innovative and creative. The answer includes specific techniques used, flavor combinations, and the impact on the overall dining experience. However, it can be further improved by providing more information on the presentation and visual appeal of the dish.

An exceptional answer

Certainly! Let me tell you about a menu I recently designed for a special event. The theme was 'Around the World' and I wanted to create a menu that showcased flavors and ingredients from different cuisines. One of the standout dishes was a fusion of Mexican and Japanese flavors called 'Sushirito'. It was a sushi roll made with a tortilla instead of traditional seaweed. I filled it with tempura-battered shrimp, avocado, cucumber, and a spicy chipotle mayo. To add a Japanese touch, I topped it with a drizzle of soy glaze and toasted sesame seeds. The dish was not only visually stunning but also a unique blend of flavors and textures that surprised and impressed the guests. The combination of Mexican and Japanese cuisines in a single dish was truly innovative and creative.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes above and beyond by providing a detailed example of a menu the candidate designed for a special event. It showcases the candidate's ability to think outside the box and combine flavors and ingredients from different cuisines. The answer highlights the visual appeal, unique concept, and overall impact on the dining experience. It demonstrates the candidate's exceptional level of innovation and creativity.

How to prepare for this question

  • Research different cuisines and ingredients to expand your knowledge and inspire new menu ideas.
  • Experiment with flavor combinations and cooking techniques to develop your own signature dishes.
  • Stay up to date with culinary trends and incorporate them into your menu designs.
  • Practice presenting your dishes in an aesthetically pleasing way to enhance the overall dining experience.
  • Seek feedback from colleagues and patrons to continuously improve and refine your menu creations.

What interviewers are evaluating

  • Innovative and creative in menu design and dish development

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Can you provide an example of a dish you created or a menu you designed? What made it innovative and creative?
Describe a time when you had to adjust your menu or dishes to meet customer demand or preferences. How did you gather feedback and make the necessary changes?
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Tell us about a time when you had to handle a conflict or disagreement among kitchen staff. How did you resolve it?
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