51 - Sous Chef - Michael Gibney

I really, really enjoyed this book. It’s written in the in second person narrative which puts you right in the thick of it and makes you feel like you’re right there in the kitchen. The story starts when the restaurant begins for the day, taking in deliveries and beginning the prep list for the shift. 

It’s all very exciting and fast-paced. I’ve worked in restaurants (well pubs with kitchens) and have some experience in the industry but I’ve never worked with a professional kitchen where there are numerous chefs, specialising in different areas and a Head Chef who creates specials each day. I found so many aspects of the book interesting.

And one bit which stood out was the fact that, even at the end of a long and stressful shift, all the chefs go out for drinks, which is all too close to home! 

This book might not be overly interesting if you’re not into food or the hospitality industry, but if you are then I totally recommended it but be prepared to read things about the process that you’re not entirely going to like - life in the kitchen can be rough and its not an easy job.