The fast-paced and direct communication style commonly seen in professional kitchens, popularized by reality television shows like Boiling Point and The Bear, has been deemed acceptable by an employment tribunal ruling. The ruling states that omitting polite phrases like “please” in a busy kitchen is not necessarily rude, but rather a practical approach in a high-pressure environment like a high-end restaurant kitchen.
The ruling came about due to a case involving Bridgette Peters, a chef who claimed mistreatment in the kitchen of a London restaurant. Peters alleged that her colleagues’ failure to use “please” when communicating with her and her subsequent dismissal were unjust. She took her case to the employment tribunal after being fired from her position as a chef de partie at L’Eto restaurant in Notting Hill within her first week.
According to the London central employment tribunal, Peters was let go because of concerns about her ability to fit into the team. These concerns arose from her insistence that colleagues say “please” when assigning tasks and her complaints about their perceived rudeness. On her first day, Peters repeatedly asked sous chef Peter Bartczak to use “please” when making requests or assigning tasks. Bartczak explained that his professional, direct communication style was customary in the kitchen.
The tribunal’s summary acknowledged Peters’ preference for polite language but recognized that the restaurant’s kitchens prioritized efficiency, directness, and intensity in communication. The tribunal accepted the restaurant’s argument that this communication style is common in the premium hospitality industry, not specific to L’Eto.
Although Peters experienced frustration with another chef, Nishma Gurung, whom she described as commanding and rude, the tribunal concluded that failing to say “please” did not constitute rudeness in the work environment. Employment Judge Woodhead emphasized that it was a matter of practicality rather than bad manners.
Peters, who is black, also attempted to sue for direct racial discrimination, alleging differential treatment based on her race. However, the tribunal dismissed this claim, stating that her treatment and dismissal were unrelated to race.
Overall, the ruling highlights the unique communication dynamics and practicality that exist in fast-paced professional kitchens, where direct and efficient communication is prioritized over traditional pleasantries.
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