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The Court House

A Day in the Life…

The Court Reporter met up with the busy Court House Restaurant Manager Sarah Jane Marshall to find out just exactly what being Restaurant Manager involves.

TCR
So, what do you do all day?

SJM
Ha! Everything! We have around 25 staff here at The Court House and I’m responsible for ensuring everyone knows what they are doing and when. Whether that’s work schedules, training, Health & Safety meetings or menu tasting, I arrange all of that to help to make the restaurant run smoothly and ensure all the staff are happy and know what their responsibilities are and that the customers get the best experience possible.

TCR
So in terms of staff, what would a typical day involve?

SJM
Well, I’d already have done the rotas for front of house and will make sure that all staff are aware of any menu changes and specials. We’ll go through the bookings and check that the tables are set up for the right number of guests at the right times and make any changes we need to during the course of the day.
Aside from that, I occasionally get to hide upstairs in my office – a former jail cell! – and could be printing up menus with the info I’ve received from Chef Derek, paying wages or suppliers, dealing with HR or organising new menu or wine tastings for the staff.

TCR
So when you have time to catch your breath, what’s the best thing about your job?

SJM
Two things really; interacting with the customers and seeing them enjoying themselves and the food and atmosphere we work so hard to create.

We are committed to employing local young people and giving them skills and opportunities to grow. This tends to keep our staff average age low, around 19. Watching them come on board at first, nervous about their role and then seeing them blossom and thrive is something that makes me feel great about what we do.

TCR
And the worst?

SJM
Well, that’s trickier. Every day is different and although some are better than others, for the most part it’s all really positive. I suppose if pushed, I’d say the long days on my feet and the late nights.

TCR
What is your favourite thing on the current menu?

SJM
The Flat Iron steak. I haven’t eaten red meat for a long time but Chef Derek has without question converted me with this dish!

TCR
Dessert or starter?

SJM
Dessert every time! Especially the Court House Sticky Toffee Pudding. It isn’t always on the menu so currently I’m having to make do with the delicious Sundae instead. It’s a tough choice though!

TCR
The Court House is becoming popular as a live music venue, what would be your top way to spend a night enjoying a band at the restaurant?

SJM
I love live music and as long as I have good friends, a Court House Pizza and a glass (or two) of the Simonsig Kaapse Vonkel I’ll be happy.