At the Olive Tree, our team is the heart of our restaurant. Of all the independent places to eat in Bath, we are resolute in our approach to highlighting the skills and contribution of our staff as much as possible. With such a great team, it makes sense to shout about it.
For this latest blog, we ventured down into the kitchen and waited for a free moment so we could catch up with commis chef Jake, hot off the heels of a busy breakfast service…
Good afternoon Jake, thanks for taking the time to talk to us after your breakfast service. Can you tell us a little bit about your role, and what you do day to day?
Sure, I am a commis chef here at the Olive Tree. I get to experience all different sections of the kitchen and at the moment, that’s garnish. I work with a chef de partie in order to learn the ins and outs of everything – I have been here for 1 year and 4 months and each day is completely different. As our menus change seasonally, the only thing that stays the same is that I get up for work, start my prep for the day and then depending on the menu I will make various purées, different pasta like macaroni and tagliatelle – my focus is on garnish preparation throughout the day.
What was the journey that led you to working in the Olive Tree?
I actually started as an apprentice here before I became a Commis Chef, but I used to work as a Kitchen Porter when I was 13 in Bristol. The style of food at the Olive Tree really appealed to me – not forgetting the passion that Chef has. We have the best ingredients and at the time I was apprenticing we were pushing for a Michelin Star – since I have been here we achieved the star which has been fantastic. It’s amazing that I was able to work up from apprentice to Commis Chef in such an exciting environment.
It’s fantastic that you have been able to further your skills due to an apprenticeship. What aspect of your job do you love the most now?
Making everything from fresh, definitely. And learning with Chef to make everything the best it can possibly be.
If you can, please describe the restaurant in only 3 words…
Fun, creative and rewarding
And finally – what’s your favourite dish?
That’s easy – Tagliatelle with white truffle!
Thanks Jake! And with that, he disappeared back into the kitchen. We look forward to being able to introduce you to even more members of our team over the coming months. Be sure to check back regularly to learn more about all of the different teams we have working at both the Olive Tree restaurant and Queensberry Hotel.
To dine at one of the most exciting places to eat in Bath, call or reserve your table online today.
