First Chinese BBQ

In the summer of 2024, I started my first full-time job at First Chinese BBQ, a bustling, family-run restaurant known for its hearty meals and loyal customer base. Working 12-hour days was tough, but the experience was worth every minute. The restaurant was run by a mother-son duo—a blunt, no-nonsense older woman and her charismatic son—and my coworkers were a lively group from all walks of life. Despite being hired as a cashier, my role quickly expanded to encompass much more, as it often does in small, tightly knit businesses.

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As the cashier at a cash-only establishment, I handled more money than I ever imagined. Every transaction—whether in person, to-go, or online—passed through my hands. Beyond managing payments, I took charge of organizing and packaging orders, ensuring they were accurate and delivered to the right person. I also managed the deli section, occasionally slicing and packaging items when the cooks were swamped. On particularly hectic days, I greeted and seated guests, helped take orders, and even pitched in with cleaning when needed.

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The most unexpected part of my job was my role as an unofficial translator and problem solver. As the only fluent English speaker on the team, I was the go-to person for answering customer questions, handling complaints, and resolving disputes. My boss, recognizing this, often designated me as the acting manager when things got heated. These moments of responsibility were challenging but gave me invaluable customer service and HR skills I never anticipated developing.

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What made this job truly special was the sense of family within the restaurant. The chefs, servers, and I all bonded during slower moments, sharing stories and laughs. We became a tight-knit group, supporting one another through long shifts and busy weekends.