welcome to OUR world

You know it doesn't matter what your position is, your gonna be tested when you are the f.n.g.
When I began this job 3 months ago, I was sure I wouldn't be here today; yet I am. This place was a fucking mess. The chef before me decided he wouldn't talk to the owner, lie to the cooks, and wall off the front of the house. Then he began sleeping with the pastry chef. Eventually, for reasons I'm not really sure of, the fired him and found me. I was given no guide lines, except do what you can.
I know what to do, but in the first weeks here, my confidence was shaken. There were ordering sheets that had not been updated, I was ordering obsolete product. There lay my first task. Then there was the failed inspection because of an outdated certificate. Then the equipment was lacking or completely FUBAR. Cooks who thought they were chefs, but couldn't tell me why you need vinegar in water to poach eggs. Drunk cooks, lazy cooks, un-informed managers afraid to ask the chef questions. Why stay?

I think I stayed because I really believe that you end up in places for a reason. It was a fated thing to find this abused and neglected kitchen. So fuck it, you can fix it or leave. If I left, I am sure I could find company in another kitchen, this is nyc after all. But what about the cooks; could I leave them wallowing in shit and wish them luck without another thought? Many would, I think.
So I took my hits. I cleaned house, created a recepie book, handed out prep sheets, gave raises to those who were forgotten, guided the blind into light, argued, and tried to make better food. Did I mention the 38% food cost? In the first two months I dropped it four points. After the sweat, the threats, retraining, and tenacity, I got my kitchen. Rather, the ground work for my kitchen.
What it came down to was comprimise. It was their boat, but nobody was steering it. The first time I looked up I saw the iceberg.
With alot of help, we slalomed through it though, into somewhat peaceful and slightly predictable waters. People talk now. I know when, how, and where, thanks to communication, faith, and a bit of trust. Just remember, you shouldn't take shit from anyone, and you shouldn't give it either. If there is an asshole in your way, kill them and move on. Don't leave holes in your staff or explanations, and mostly believe in yourself!