Top 38 Slang For Cook – Meaning & Usage

Cooking is an art form that involves a unique language of its own. From culinary terms to kitchen slang, it can sometimes feel like a whole new world. But fear not, because we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ve gathered the top slang words and phrases used by seasoned cooks and chefs. Whether you’re a home cook or aspiring chef, this list will not only expand your culinary vocabulary, but also give you an inside look into the fascinating world of cooking. So put on your apron and get ready to spice up your culinary knowledge!

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1. Chef

A chef is the person in charge of a kitchen and is responsible for planning and executing menus, supervising staff, and ensuring the quality of the food. The term “chef” is often used to refer to a professional cook with advanced culinary skills.

For example, a restaurant might advertise, “Come and taste the creations of our renowned chef.”
In a cooking competition, a judge might comment, “This dish is a testament to the chef’s expertise.”
A food critic might write, “The chef’s innovative approach to flavors sets this restaurant apart.”

2. Line cook

A line cook is a cook who works on a specific station or line in a kitchen, such as the grill or sauté station. They are responsible for preparing and cooking specific dishes according to the chef’s instructions.

For instance, a restaurant might have a line cook dedicated to grilling steaks and another line cook responsible for preparing pasta dishes.
In a busy kitchen, a chef might yell, “Line cook, we need two more orders of fries!”
A line cook might say, “I love working the sauté station because it keeps me busy and challenged.”

3. Sous chef

A sous chef is the second-in-command in a kitchen and assists the head chef in managing the kitchen operations. They oversee the kitchen staff, help with menu planning, and ensure the quality and consistency of the food.

For example, a restaurant might have a sous chef responsible for coordinating the preparation of appetizers and another sous chef in charge of desserts.
In a high-pressure situation, a head chef might say, “Sous chef, we need you to expedite the orders.”
A sous chef might comment, “Working as a sous chef is a great opportunity to learn and grow in the culinary industry.”

4. Prep cook

A prep cook is a cook who is responsible for preparing ingredients, such as chopping vegetables, marinating meats, and measuring ingredients. They assist other cooks in the kitchen by ensuring that all necessary ingredients are ready for cooking.

For instance, a prep cook might spend their shift peeling and cutting potatoes for fries.
In a busy kitchen, a line cook might ask, “Can the prep cook bring me more diced onions?”
A prep cook might say, “I enjoy the precision and organization required in my role as a prep cook.”

5. Grillardin

A grillardin is a cook who specializes in grilling and roasting meats. They are responsible for cooking meats to the desired level of doneness, ensuring they are flavorful and juicy.

For example, a restaurant might have a grillardin dedicated to cooking steaks and another cook responsible for grilling seafood.
In a steakhouse, a customer might ask, “Can you recommend the grillardin’s special?”
A grillardin might comment, “Grilling meats requires attention to detail and a good understanding of heat control.”

6. Saucier

A saucier is a cook who specializes in making sauces. They are responsible for creating and perfecting the various sauces used in a restaurant’s dishes.

For example, a saucier might be in charge of making a rich and flavorful béarnaise sauce to accompany a steak.
In a professional kitchen, a saucier might be called upon to create a velvety smooth hollandaise sauce for eggs benedict.
A chef might say, “Our saucier is a master at creating complex and delicious sauces.”

7. Fry cook

A fry cook is a cook who specializes in cooking food by deep frying it. They are skilled in maintaining the right temperature and timing to achieve perfectly crispy and delicious fried dishes.

For instance, a fry cook might be responsible for cooking french fries, onion rings, and fried chicken in a restaurant.
In a fast food establishment, a fry cook might work in a dedicated fry station, ensuring that all fried items are cooked to perfection.
A customer might compliment a fry cook by saying, “These fries are amazing! You must have a talented fry cook in the kitchen.”

8. Short order cook

A short order cook is a cook who specializes in preparing and cooking food quickly. They are skilled in multitasking and can handle multiple orders at once, ensuring that each dish is prepared and served in a timely manner.

For example, a short order cook might work in a diner, where they are responsible for cooking breakfast items like eggs, pancakes, and bacon.
In a busy restaurant, a short order cook might be in charge of preparing sandwiches, burgers, and other quick meals.
A chef might say, “Our short order cook is a master at keeping up with the fast pace of a busy kitchen.”

9. Pastry chef

A pastry chef is a cook who specializes in creating baked goods and desserts. They are skilled in working with dough, pastry, and various sweet ingredients to create beautiful and delicious treats.

For instance, a pastry chef might be responsible for making cakes, pastries, and breads in a bakery.
In a fine dining restaurant, a pastry chef might create intricate and elegant desserts to complement the main courses.
A customer might say, “The desserts at this restaurant are incredible. They must have a talented pastry chef.”

10. Garde manger

A garde manger is a cook who specializes in preparing and presenting cold dishes, such as salads, charcuterie, and cold appetizers. They are skilled in arranging and garnishing food to create visually appealing and appetizing dishes.

For example, a garde manger might be responsible for assembling a beautiful and fresh salad with a variety of ingredients and dressings.
In a banquet or catering setting, a garde manger might create elaborate displays of cold dishes for guests to enjoy.
A chef might say, “Our garde manger is a true artist when it comes to creating stunning and delicious cold dishes.”

11. Expediter

An expediter is a person who coordinates the flow of orders in a restaurant kitchen. They ensure that each dish is prepared and plated correctly before being sent out to the customers.

For example, a chef might say, “We need an expediter to keep things organized during the dinner rush.”
In a busy kitchen, the expediter might call out, “Two steaks, medium-rare, one chicken, and a vegetarian pasta, all to go!”
A cook might ask the expediter, “Are the fish and chips ready to be served?”

12. Dishwasher

A dishwasher is a person responsible for cleaning dishes and kitchen utensils in a restaurant. This term is often used in professional kitchens.

For instance, a chef might say, “We need to hire a new dishwasher to keep up with the dirty dishes.”
In a busy restaurant, the dishwasher might say, “I’ll have these plates washed and ready for the next course.”
A server might ask the dishwasher, “Can you make sure these glasses are spotless before we set them on the tables?”

13. Kitchen manager

A kitchen manager is the person in charge of overseeing the operations of a restaurant kitchen. They are responsible for managing the staff, ensuring food safety, and maintaining efficiency in the kitchen.

For example, a sous chef might say, “The kitchen manager needs to approve the new menu items.”
In a busy kitchen, the kitchen manager might give instructions like, “Make sure all the stations are stocked and ready for service.”
A line cook might ask the kitchen manager, “Do you need any help with the prep work?”

14. Cook’s tour

A cook’s tour is a quick tour or brief overview of a place or facility, often used in the context of a restaurant kitchen. It can also refer to a rushed or haphazard cooking process.

For instance, a chef might say, “Let me give you a cook’s tour of our new kitchen layout.”
In a busy restaurant, a line cook might say, “I just did a cook’s tour of the walk-in fridge to find the ingredients.”
A server might ask a cook, “Can you give me a cook’s tour of the menu specials?”

15. Cook up a storm

To cook up a storm means to make a large quantity of delicious food, often with great skill and enthusiasm.

For example, a chef might say, “I’m going to cook up a storm for tonight’s special event.”
In a busy kitchen, a cook might say, “I need to cook up a storm to keep up with the orders.”
A customer might compliment the cook by saying, “You really cooked up a storm with this meal!”

16. Chef de Partie

This term refers to a chef who is in charge of a specific section or station in a professional kitchen. They are responsible for preparing and cooking specific types of food, such as meats, vegetables, or desserts.

For example, a chef might say, “I’m the Chef de Partie for the grill station.”
In a restaurant, a customer might ask, “Can I speak to the Chef de Partie? I have a special dietary request.”
A chef might instruct their team, “Make sure the Chef de Partie for appetizers knows we have a large reservation tonight.”

17. Commis

A commis is a junior chef who is still in the early stages of their culinary career. They work under the supervision of more experienced chefs and assist with various tasks in the kitchen.

For instance, a chef might say, “The commis will be responsible for prepping the vegetables.”
In a professional kitchen, a commis might be assigned to clean and organize equipment.
A chef might give feedback to a commis, saying, “You’re doing well, but remember to work on your knife skills.”

18. Expo

The expo is the person who coordinates the flow of food from the kitchen to the dining area. They communicate with the kitchen staff, servers, and sometimes even the customers to ensure that orders are prepared and delivered correctly.

For example, a server might say, “I need to check with the expo to see if the order is ready.”
In a busy restaurant, the expo might call out orders to the kitchen staff, saying, “Two steaks, medium-rare, and one vegetarian lasagna.”
A chef might ask the expo, “Can you let me know when the appetizers are ready to be picked up?”

19. Back of the House

This term refers to the area of a restaurant where food is prepared and cooked. It includes the kitchen itself as well as any storage areas, dishwashing stations, and other workspaces that are not visible to the customers.

For instance, a chef might say, “I’ll meet you in the back of the house to discuss the menu.”
A server might ask a colleague, “Can you grab me a clean glass from the back of the house?”
A chef might instruct their team, “Make sure everything is organized and clean in the back of the house before service starts.”

20. All day

In a professional kitchen, “all day” is a term used to refer to the total number of orders that need to be prepared and cooked. It helps the kitchen staff keep track of the workload and prioritize tasks.

For example, a chef might say, “We have 10 steaks and 5 salads all day.”
In a busy restaurant, a server might inform the kitchen, “We just got a large table with 15 orders all day.”
A chef might delegate tasks based on the number of orders, saying, “I need someone to handle the appetizers, we have 8 all day.”

21. Gourmet guru

A term used to describe someone who is highly skilled and knowledgeable in gourmet cooking. A gourmet guru is someone who excels in creating and presenting high-quality, sophisticated dishes.

For example, a food critic might write, “This restaurant is a must-visit for all gourmet gurus.”
A cooking enthusiast might say, “I aspire to become a gourmet guru one day.”
A chef might refer to a colleague as a “gourmet guru” for their exceptional culinary skills.

22. Iron chef

Originally a Japanese cooking show, “Iron Chef” has become a term used to describe a chef who is extremely skilled and talented in the kitchen. Iron chefs are known for their ability to create innovative and delicious dishes under pressure.

For instance, a cooking competition might feature chefs competing to earn the title of “iron chef.”
A foodie might say, “I love watching ‘Iron Chef’ and seeing the chefs’ creative dishes.”
A restaurant might advertise a special event with the headline, “Experience the skills of an iron chef at our exclusive dinner.”

23. Culinary connoisseur

A term used to describe someone who has extensive knowledge and appreciation for fine food and cooking techniques. A culinary connoisseur is someone who can discern the quality and flavors of different dishes and ingredients.

For example, a culinary connoisseur might be able to identify the subtle flavors in a complex dish.
A food blogger might describe themselves as a “culinary connoisseur” in their bio.
A cooking class might advertise, “Learn from culinary connoisseurs and elevate your cooking skills.”

24. Baker

A baker is someone who specializes in baking bread, pastries, and other baked goods. They are skilled in creating delicious and visually appealing desserts and treats.

For instance, a bakery might have a sign that says, “Freshly baked by our talented bakers.”
A baking competition might feature contestants showcasing their skills as bakers.
A dessert lover might say, “I have a sweet tooth, so I appreciate the artistry of bakers.”

25. Grill sergeant

A term used to describe someone who is highly skilled and authoritative when it comes to grilling and barbecuing. A grill sergeant is someone who takes charge of the grill and ensures that the food is cooked to perfection.

For example, at a backyard barbecue, someone might say, “Our grill sergeant is in charge of cooking the steaks.”
A grill enthusiast might proudly declare themselves a “grill sergeant.”
A cooking show might feature a segment with a grill sergeant sharing their grilling tips and techniques.

26. Spice master

This term refers to someone who is highly skilled at using spices and seasonings to enhance the flavors of their dishes. A spice master knows how to create a perfect balance of flavors and can transform a simple dish into something extraordinary.

For example, a food blogger might write, “This recipe was created by a spice master who knows how to bring out the best flavors.”
A restaurant reviewer might say, “The chef at this restaurant is a true spice master, every dish is bursting with flavor.”
A cooking enthusiast might comment, “I aspire to become a spice master one day, it’s all about experimenting with different spices and finding the perfect combinations.”

27. Wok star

A wok star is someone who excels at cooking stir-fry dishes using a wok. This term is often used to describe someone who can effortlessly toss ingredients in a wok, creating delicious and flavorful stir-fry dishes with ease.

For instance, a cooking show host might introduce a guest chef as a wok star, saying, “Our next guest is a wok star who will show us how to make the perfect stir-fry.”
A food blogger might write, “This recipe was developed by a wok star, it’s a must-try for stir-fry lovers.”
A cooking enthusiast might say, “I’ve been practicing my stir-fry skills, hoping to become a wok star one day.”

28. BBQ aficionado

A BBQ aficionado is someone who is extremely knowledgeable and passionate about barbecuing. They have mastered the art of grilling and are skilled in techniques such as smoking, slow-cooking, and creating delicious BBQ sauces and rubs.

For example, a BBQ competition judge might describe a contestant as a BBQ aficionado, saying, “This competitor is a true grill master, they know how to create the perfect smoky flavor.”
A food critic might write, “This restaurant is a must-visit for BBQ aficionados, their ribs are tender and flavorful.”
A BBQ enthusiast might say, “I’ve been honing my grilling skills for years, aiming to become a BBQ aficionado like my dad.”

29. Kitchen magician

A kitchen magician is someone who can create culinary magic in the kitchen. They have a deep understanding of flavors, techniques, and ingredients, and can turn ordinary ingredients into extraordinary dishes.

For instance, a cooking show host might introduce a chef as a kitchen magician, saying, “Our guest today is a culinary sorcerer who will wow us with their innovative dishes.”
A food blogger might write, “This recipe was developed by a kitchen magician, it’s a true culinary masterpiece.”
A cooking enthusiast might say, “I’m always amazed by the skills of kitchen magicians, they can create delicious dishes out of seemingly nothing.”

30. Food ninja

A food ninja is someone who is extremely skilled, quick, and precise in the kitchen. They can chop, slice, and dice ingredients with speed and accuracy, and can navigate their way around the kitchen with ease.

For example, a cooking show host might describe a contestant as a food ninja, saying, “This chef is a culinary ninja, watch how fast they can chop those vegetables.”
A food blogger might write, “This recipe was created by a food ninja, it’s a quick and easy dish that can be prepared in minutes.”
A cooking enthusiast might say, “I’ve been practicing my knife skills, hoping to become a food ninja in the kitchen.”

31. Grill master

A grill master is someone who is highly skilled and knowledgeable in the art of grilling food. They are able to cook meat, vegetables, and other ingredients to perfection on a grill.

For example, “John is the grill master at our family barbecues. His steaks are always perfectly charred on the outside and juicy on the inside.”
A friend might say, “I’m having a barbecue this weekend. Can you come over and be the grill master?”
At a cookout, someone might compliment the grill master by saying, “You have a real talent for grilling. This chicken is amazing!”

32. Food whisperer

A food whisperer is someone who has a natural talent for understanding and working with different ingredients. They are able to create delicious dishes by instinctively knowing how to combine flavors and textures.

For instance, “Sarah has a reputation as a food whisperer. She can take a few simple ingredients and turn them into a gourmet meal.”
A cooking show host might introduce a guest chef as a food whisperer, saying, “Our next guest is a renowned food whisperer who will be sharing some of their culinary secrets.”
When someone tastes a dish and is impressed, they might ask the cook, “Are you a food whisperer? This is incredible!”

33. Spice wizard

A spice wizard is someone who has extensive knowledge and expertise in using spices to enhance the flavors of their dishes. They are skilled at selecting and combining spices to create unique and delicious flavor profiles.

For example, “Julia is a spice wizard. Her curries are always bursting with complex flavors.”
A friend might ask for cooking advice, saying, “I want to make my dishes more flavorful. Can you teach me some spice wizardry?”
When someone tastes a dish and is impressed by the spices, they might exclaim, “You’re a spice wizard! How did you make this taste so good?”

34. Kitchen ninja

A kitchen ninja is someone who is highly skilled in the kitchen and able to prepare meals quickly and efficiently. They are able to move around the kitchen with speed and precision, like a ninja.

For instance, “Alex is a kitchen ninja. They can whip up a three-course meal in under an hour.”
A friend might compliment a cook by saying, “You’re a real kitchen ninja. You make cooking look so easy!”
When someone sees a cook effortlessly multitasking in the kitchen, they might say, “Wow, you’re a kitchen ninja. How do you do it all at once?”

35. Flavor alchemist

A flavor alchemist is someone who has a deep understanding of flavors and is able to create unique and harmonious combinations in their dishes. They have a talent for transforming ordinary ingredients into extraordinary culinary experiences.

For example, “Mark is a flavor alchemist. His desserts are like works of art, with flavors that dance on the palate.”
A restaurant critic might describe a chef as a flavor alchemist, saying, “The chef at this restaurant is a true flavor alchemist, creating dishes that are both innovative and delicious.”
When someone tastes a dish and is amazed by the flavors, they might exclaim, “You’re a flavor alchemist! How did you come up with this combination?”

36. Baker extraordinaire

This term is used to describe a highly skilled baker who excels in their craft. A baker extraordinaire is someone who consistently produces outstanding baked goods and has a deep understanding of baking techniques and ingredients.

For example, “Mary is known as the baker extraordinaire in our town. Her pastries are always delicious and beautifully presented.”
In a baking competition, a judge might comment, “This cake was made by a true baker extraordinaire. The flavors are perfectly balanced and the texture is flawless.”
A baking enthusiast might say, “I aspire to become a baker extraordinaire one day. I’m constantly experimenting with new recipes and techniques to improve my skills.”

37. Kitchen maestro

A kitchen maestro is a skilled cook who possesses exceptional expertise and creativity in the culinary arts. This term is often used to describe someone who can effortlessly create delicious and visually stunning dishes.

For instance, “Chef John is a true kitchen maestro. His ability to combine flavors and textures is unmatched.”
In a restaurant review, a critic might write, “The dishes prepared by the kitchen maestro at this establishment are a work of art.”
A food blogger might say, “I had the privilege of dining at a restaurant helmed by a kitchen maestro. The experience was nothing short of extraordinary.”

38. Food artist

A food artist is a cook who approaches their craft with a creative and artistic mindset. They not only focus on the taste of the food but also on its presentation, turning each dish into a visual masterpiece.

For example, “Sarah is a true food artist. Her plating skills are incredible, and every dish looks like a work of art.”
In a cooking competition, a judge might comment, “This dish was prepared by a talented food artist. The presentation is stunning and the flavors are harmonious.”
A food enthusiast might say, “I follow several food artists on Instagram. Their creations are not only delicious but also visually captivating.”