Careers 101: Restaurant Jobs in Houston

Published on 2008-06-17

Schools:

Restaurant & Food Service is the industry of choice for young or inexperienced workers looking for a first job. About 20% of all Texas restaurant jobs are held by teens between the ages of 16 and 19. These workers are concentrated in service-based occupations such as waiter/waitress, dishwasher, and food server. Food preparation and restaurant management jobs generally require at least a year or two of experience and possibly a degree or relevant certification. Would-be chefs and cooks in Houston could attend The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of Houston or the Culinary Institute Alain & Marie LeNotre. The Conrad N. Hilton College at the University of Houston is regarded as one of the best hospitality schools in the world. It offers both undergraduate and graduate degree programs in hospitality and restaurant management.

Employers:

Houston is one of the best cities in the U.S. in which to search for restaurant jobs. According to the 2007 Zagat survey, Houston residents eat out 4.2 times a week, a number that exceeds the national average by 30%. A far-from-exhaustive list of the best places to find restaurant jobs in Houston (or, you know, eat) would include Brennan's of Houston, Pizzitola's Bar-B-Cue, Tony's, Da Marco, The Oceanaire Seafood Room, Benjy's Restaurant, Vargo's Restaurant, Vic & Anthony's Steakhouse, Mark's American Cuisine, Indika, Cafe Annie, Chez Nous, Quattro, etc.