A little note before you read this: Part of the joy of this job goes beyond tasting—it’s seeing food service training in action. Programs like On Your Mark were making an impact back when I ran American Grill on Forest Avenue—24 years ago!—and it’s remarkable to see them thrive today. Stories like this truly touch me. Generally speaking, we need more initiatives like this across the industry, because structured training doesn’t just build skills—it shapes a workforce with care, manners, and attention to detail.

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. —Pumpkin pancakes stacked high, chocolate-stuffed French toast drizzled with ganache, and an Apple Pie Smoothie that tastes like autumn in a glass—On Your Mark Café in West Brighton serves fall on a plate. But behind the seasonal flavors is a story that makes

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