From Food Preparation to Table Service: My Internship in a Spanish Restaurant
Stepping into the busy kitchen of a renowned Spanish restaurant, I embarked on an internship that would immerse me in the art of culinary excellence and the intricate world of table service. As an aspiring chef, I wanted to learn every aspect of the restaurant industry, from food preparation to the seamless delivery of exquisite dishes to organizing diners.
The beginning of my internship
In the early days of my internship, I found myself in the heart of the kitchen, surrounded by the sizzling sounds and aromatic scents that defined the culinary experience. I quickly realized that precision, organization, and a deep passion for gastronomy were the keys to success in this high-pressure environment. Under the guidance of skilled chefs, I improved my knife skills, learned the importance of ingredient selection, and embraced the art of food preparation. From chopping vegetables to mastering complex cooking techniques, every task in the kitchen demanded attention to detail. I quickly learned that excellence was not just about the final dish, but also about the process. The kitchen taught me discipline, patience, and the importance of working collaboratively with a team to ensure the seamless execution of each dish. Here you can find some tasks that are often performed by interns in the kitchen.
During my Internship
As my internship progressed, I transitioned from the kitchen to the front of the house, where I discovered the intricate dance of table service. The restaurant’s elegant dining room became my stage, and I was entrusted with creating memorable experiences for the guests. I learned that table service was not just about serving food; it was about creating an atmosphere of hospitality, where guests felt welcomed, attended to, and pampered. I quickly realized that genuine hospitality extended far beyond the act of placing plates on tables. It required impeccable communication skills, an ability to anticipate guests’ needs, and a genuine passion for creating exceptional dining experiences. I became well-versed in the art of recommending dishes, explaining menu options, and providing wine pairings that enhanced the flavors of the cuisine. Through attentive observation, I learned to read guests’ cues, adapting my service style to suit their preferences and ensuring that their dining experience exceeded their expectations. Language played a significant role in my ability to connect with guests. Being fluent in several languages allowed me to communicate effectively with diners from different backgrounds, enhancing their comfort and understanding. I embraced the opportunity to engage in conversations about the cuisine, sharing stories about the restaurant’s history and the culinary inspirations behind each dish. These interactions not only enriched the guests’ experience but also deepened my appreciation for the cultural nuances of gastronomy. My internship in a Spanish restaurant had shaped me as both a culinary professional and a hospitality enthusiast. I had experienced the thrill of pushing culinary boundaries, mastering the art of food preparation, and engaging in the theater of table service. I had learned that the true essence of a restaurant was not just the flavors on the plate, but also the passion, dedication, and genuine care that went into every aspect of the dining experience.
Internship with Animafest
Animafest offers internships in Spain. The internships are distributed between different hospitality sectors. All of the positions offered are full time positions. Monthly compensation, meals and accommodation are provided. The language proficiency requirement is B1 in Spanish and B2 in English. You might be eligible for the Erasmus Plus grant, however this needs to be clarified with your school. If you would like to find out more about our internships, please visit our website. Please do not hesitate to contact us through WhatsApp today!
