Working the Kitchen at My Local Bar in Lisbon

I have a favorite pub in Lisbon, a cozy spot just around the corner from my place. The owners are an American (from Chicago) and a Brazilian couple. They’re both entrepreneurs passionate about the food they serve.

This pub has become a community hub, attracting both locals and expats. It’s a great place to chill. And everyone is welcoming and accepting.

Recently, the owners asked for my help during a party night, and I gladly volunteered. I didn’t take any compensation (except for free beer) because I wanted to learn. My duties included prepping plates and general kitchen tasks like sweeping, loading and unloading the dishwasher, and some prep activities.

This wasn’t my first time in the kitchen. In fact, my first job was working as a caterer for a senior living home. Yes, back then I was slinging packaged mash potatoes and boxed wine (anyone remember Franzia?).

In truth, I wasn’t much of a hard worker back then. I enjoyed messing around more than doing a good job.

But I’ve always loved serving and preparing food. In the years that followed, I cooked bbq and crafted sausages from scratch for an annual Oktoberfest in Dayton, Ohio. I learned from books and other trained chefs.

Now as my current business reaches a new stage of maturity, I find myself drawn to the idea of starting a food venture. I even bought a sausage grinder and stuffer. The owner of this kitchen has encouraged me to use it to try out new food products.

So would I get back in the kitchen again? Absolutely.

And the better question is - are you all ready for hot dogs by Jordan?