Chef Kristin Nemeth has just been named Specialty Restaurant Chef for Tbones, a Tuscan Steakhouse at the Bridgewater Marriott Hotel. Chef Nemeth was previously the kitchen supervisor. In her new role Chef Nemeth is responsible for managing the kitchen staff to ensure proper techniques for the preparation and service of dishes, and to familiarize the cooks and servers on each day’s menu items with “raw to cooked” sessions. Chef Nemeth also provides input on menu changes for all of the food and beverage outlets at the hotel and works closely with the director of restaurant operations on banquet, catering and food services.
It’s no surprise that Chef Nemeth chose a career in the kitchen, because that’s where her happiest childhood memories took place. Chef Nemeth’s love for food began with her great-grandparents. From a young age, she always enjoyed being in the kitchen helping make traditional Italian and Hungarian dishes with her family. She also spent time working at her uncle’s pizzeria on the Jersey Shore.
But it was a vacation to Italy and dinners in Tuscan vineyards that opened her eyes and palate to the many flavors of Italian gastronomy—and, more importantly, created a lifelong passion for food. Upon her return home she began to replicate the dishes she experienced for her family and friends.
Chef Nemeth enrolled in the Hotel, Restaurant & Institute Management program at Middlesex County College and graduated with honors. After getting her degree, Chef Nemeth trained in various kitchens in New Jersey. She was a line cook and saucier at a Tuscan-style restaurant and a sous chef at a bed and breakfast.
Chef Nemeth joined the team at this Marriott Hotel’s Bridgewater restaurant in 2008 as a banquet captain. Executing social and corporate events gave her great front of the house experience, but made her realize that her true craft and love was cooking. She returned to the kitchen under the tutelage of Executive Chef Kevin Goodchild. Chef Nemeth quickly learned all the stations at Tbones, as well as assisted in the banquet kitchen. It wasn’t long until this restaurant in Bridgewater promoted her to kitchen supervisor/purchaser. In that position, she learned restaurant operations from a quality and cost control perspective and established herself as a true leader.
Chef Nemeth believes that having a well-rounded background in all aspects of culinary arts allows her a “holistic” view of the dining experience. The entire restaurant process—from the procurement of the freshest ingredients, supporting local farmers, using organic and natural products, to the creation of fine cuisine and friendly caring service tableside—contributes to a memorable guest experience.
Chef Nemeth’s passion for the culinary arts is undeniable, from the heart, and recognizable. Her talent has made Bridgewater dining even more enjoyable at Tbones Restaurant.
Tbones at the Bridgewater Marriott offers an upscale dining experience that meshes authentic Tuscan cuisine with classic American ambiance. The seasonal menu focuses on local, sustainable products — each dish comes at its freshest and most flavorful best.
