Mise en Place

Welcome to my blog on Brian Coffey Catering! After decades working in professional kitchens, one phrase has continually shaped my work, my mindset, and even my daily life: Mise en Place. When it comes to cooking mise en place is like the first step to getting ready. It is how a chef’s mindset creates order and is an essential part of professional kitchens. In commercial kitchens we simply call it “mise,” and it’s one of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned throughout my career.

A Life Built in the Kitchen

I’ve spent my entire life in kitchens — it’s the only profession I’ve ever had. Over the years I’ve discovered countless techniques, habits, and traditions that keep me organized, safe, efficient, and always learning. Even after decades in the industry, my passion for cooking never fades. In fact, it grows.

To learn more about my background and culinary journey, feel free to visit my About Page.

What keeps me inspired is the simple truth that no one can ever know everything about food. New cuisines, emerging trends, global ingredients, and evolving techniques make this craft endlessly exciting. Every day brings an opportunity to learn something new.

A Chef’s Curiosity Never Ends

Because of this, I’ve become a lifelong student of food. I love exploring where ingredients come from, how cultures influence each other, and how migrations across the world gave rise to the blended cuisines we cook today. Additionally, experimenting, tasting, and testing new ideas keeps my creativity alive.

If you’re curious about the types of cuisine and events I work with, explore our catering services to see what we offer.

What Mise en Place Really Means

Mise en place is a French term meaning “everything in its place.” It is just of many terms you learn in the kitchen. “Mise” (in kitchen lingo) is the practice of preparing and organizing all ingredients, tools, and equipment before cooking begins. This includes:

• Washing, peeling, slicing, chopping, and measuring ingredients
• Gathering all tools, bowls, pots, pans, and utensils
• Reviewing the recipe so you know what must be prepared in advance
• Setting up your workspace clearly and logically

If you’d like to see examples of dishes created through this process, check out the food gallery.

Mise en Place as a Way of Life

Beyond the kitchen, mise en place has become a philosophy for me. Mise en place is a way of life both in and out of the kitchen. Each day I try to keep my life organized and simple — even when things get hectic. Focusing on the small details keeps me grounded and helps me stay calm.

I consider myself blessed to love what I do. Being a chef hasn’t always been easy, but the challenges have shaped me. I’ve learned just as much from my failures as from my successes, and mise en place has guided me through it all.

The Joy of Gathering Ingredients

Part of the magic of cooking begins before the first chop. I love sourcing the freshest, highest-quality ingredients. Whether I’m preparing dinner for my family or catering a large event, finding excellent ingredients is always my top priority.

Furthermore, like any craftsman who values their tools, I take pride in having the right equipment. A sharp knife, solid pans, and a well-organized toolbox allow creativity to flow effortlessly.

Curious about the kinds of dishes I prepare? You can browse some of my sample menus for inspiration.

Why Mise en Place Matters

Mise en place has many benefits that impact every cooking experience. Here’s why it matters:

Increased Efficiency

With everything ready ahead of time, cooking becomes smoother and faster, allowing you to stay focused on technique rather than scrambling for ingredients.

Fewer Mistakes

Since everything is prepared beforehand, you’re far less likely to forget an ingredient, repeat a step, or rush through critical moments.

Better Organization & Less Stress

An organized setup keeps you mentally calm and prevents multitasking overload. As a result, cooking becomes more enjoyable and far more consistent.

Bringing Mise en Place Into Your Own Kitchen

Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just getting started, I hope mise en place helps you enjoy the cooking process as much as I do. A little preparation goes a long way — and can transform the way you approach food.

To see what others have said about my cooking and catering services, visit the Reviews Page.

If you’d ever like to reach out, collaborate, or book an event, feel free to contact me today.

As Julia Child always said: “Bon Appétit!”

— Chef Brian