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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Service Included summary
Phoebe Damrosch
Brief summary
Service Included by Phoebe Damrosch is a captivating memoir that takes you behind the scenes of New York's renowned restaurant, Per Se. It offers a glimpse into the demanding world of fine dining and the author's personal journey within it.
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Service Included
Summary of key ideas
The Journey to Fine Dining
In Service Included, Phoebe Damrosch recounts her journey from a small town in Washington to her prestigious position as the only female captain at Per Se, a four-star New York City restaurant. Her tale begins with her move to New York City, where she takes up a job as a waitress at a small Italian restaurant, not knowing that this would be the start of her love affair with the world of fine dining.
Her passion for food and its presentation piques her interest in Per Se, a new restaurant that was creating quite a buzz in the city. She secures a job there and soon becomes an integral part of the team, managing the restaurant's front of house operations with finesse and dedication.
The Rigorous World of Fine Dining
As Damrosch delves deeper into her role at Per Se, she reveals the intense and meticulous nature of the restaurant's service. She gives us a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world of fine dining, where every detail, from the arrangement of the table settings to the precise timing of each course, is meticulously planned and executed. We learn about the restaurant's exacting standards, where even the smallest mistake can have significant consequences.
Despite the high pressure and long hours, Damrosch finds joy in her work. She develops a deep appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into creating a memorable dining experience. She also forms close bonds with her colleagues, who share her passion and dedication.
Life and Love in the Restaurant
While Service Included primarily focuses on Damrosch's professional life, it also touches upon her personal relationships, particularly her romance with a sommelier at Per Se. She describes how their shared love for food and wine deepens their connection, and how they navigate the challenges of maintaining a relationship in the demanding world of fine dining.
As the book progresses, we see Damrosch's growth, both professionally and personally. She becomes more confident in her role, earning the respect of her colleagues and the restaurant's esteemed guests. She also gains a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics at play in the restaurant industry.
Reflections on the Restaurant Industry
In the latter part of the book, Damrosch offers insightful observations on the restaurant industry as a whole. She discusses the power dynamics between the front and back of the house, the challenges faced by women in the industry, and the evolving trends in fine dining. She also reflects on the emotional toll that the demanding nature of the job takes on restaurant workers.
Ultimately, Service Included is a captivating insider's look at the world of fine dining. Damrosch's narrative is filled with vivid descriptions of sumptuous dishes, memorable encounters with guests, and the intricate choreography of a high-end restaurant. It's a testament to the passion and dedication of those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to create extraordinary dining experiences.
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What is Service Included about?
Service Included is a memoir by Phoebe Damrosch that takes readers behind the scenes of the renowned New York City restaurant, Per Se. Damrosch shares her experiences working as a waitress and the demanding, often chaotic world of fine dining. From the intense training to the intricate details of each dish, the book provides a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of a high-end restaurant.
Service Included Review
Service Included by Phoebe Damrosch (2007) chronicles the author's journey as a waitress in a renowned New York City restaurant. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- Offers a detailed behind-the-scenes look into the world of fine dining, revealing the intricacies of service in a high-end establishment.
- Explores the challenges and rewards of working in the hospitality industry, giving insight into the dedication required for exceptional customer service.
- With its engaging narratives and vivid descriptions, it paints a vibrant picture of the restaurant culture, ensuring it is far from a dull read.
Who should read Service Included?
People who are curious about the behind-the-scenes workings of high-end restaurants
Aspiring chefs and hospitality professionals looking for insights into the industry
Diners who want to better understand the dynamics of restaurant service and the art of creating memorable dining experiences
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Service Included FAQs
What is the main message of Service Included?
The main message of Service Included is the behind-the-scenes look at the world of fine dining through the eyes of a professional sommelier.
How long does it take to read Service Included?
Reading Service Included takes a few hours to dive into the full experience. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Service Included a good book? Is it worth reading?
Service Included is a captivating read for those curious about the intricacies of high-end dining service. It offers a unique perspective and valuable insights.
Who is the author of Service Included?
The author of Service Included is Phoebe Damrosch.
What to read after Service Included?
If you're wondering what to read next after Service Included, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer
- Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser
- Why We Get Fat by Gary Taubes
- The Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan
- Savor by Thich Nhat Hanh and Lilian Cheung
- Eat to Live by Joel Fuhrman
- Nutrition and Physical Degeneration by Weston A. Price
- Salt Sugar Fat by Michael Moss
- Mindless Eating by Brian Wansink
- The Twenty-four Hour Mind by Rosalind D. Cartwright