RESTAURANTS & FOOD/BEVERAGE SERVICES

The food and beverage sector which is professionally known by its initials as F&B is the largest segment of the hospitality industry. It comprises of establishments primarily engaged in preparing meals, snacks, and beverages for immediate consumption on and off the premises. It can symbiotically function as part of other businesses, such as in bowling alleys or movie theaters.

CAREER DETAILS

Description:
Direct and may participate in the preparation, seasoning, and cooking of salads, soups, fish, meats, vegetables, desserts, or other foods. May plan and price menu items, order supplies, and keep records and accounts.

Tasks:

  • Monitor sanitation practices to ensure that employees follow standards and regulations.
  • Check the quality of raw or cooked food products to ensure that standards are met.
  • Estimate amounts and costs of required supplies, such as food and ingredients.
  • Instruct cooks or other workers in the preparation, cooking, garnishing, or presentation of food.
  • Supervise or coordinate activities of cooks or workers engaged in food preparation.

*Additional tasks may be needed for this career.

Average Salary:
$25,940 – $82,620

Description:
Prepare, season, and cook dishes such as soups, meats, vegetables, or desserts in restaurants. May order supplies, keep records and accounts, price items on menu, or plan menu.

Tasks:

  • Inspect and clean food preparation areas, such as equipment and work surfaces, or serving areas to ensure safe and sanitary food-handling practices.
  • Ensure freshness of food and ingredients by checking for quality, keeping track of old and new items, and rotating stock.
  • Ensure food is stored and cooked at correct temperature by regulating temperature of ovens, broilers, grills, and roasters.
  • Season and cook food according to recipes or personal judgment and experience.
  • Turn or stir foods to ensure even cooking.

*Additional tasks may be needed for this career.

Average Salary:
$17,090 – $34,770

Description:
Mix and serve drinks to patrons, directly or through waitstaff.

Tasks:

  • Clean glasses, utensils, and bar equipment.
  • Collect money for drinks served.
  • Balance cash receipts.
  • Check identification of customers to verify age requirements for purchase of alcohol.
  • Clean bars, work areas, and tables.

*Additional tasks may be needed for this career.

Average Salary:
$16,910 – $48,680

VIRGINIA WIZARD

Learn more about the careers above and others in this sector by visiting the Virginia Education Wizard.