A personal Thanksgiving reflection from me—along with the chef-approved prep tips and mise en place habits that help me make the holiday easier, calmer, and a little more joyful.

Working in a restaurant is stressful. Let’s face it, where else does a customer go and expect a plate of food to be in front of them in no more than fifteen minutes. If you are getting your tires rotated or seeing the doctor, you are prepared for the hour-long wait time.