Of course, there were moments of doubt, sleepless nights and resignation. But most of the time accompanied me an indescribable joy that fueled me every day to work. For a few months, my life was divided into work and sleep, and scraps of free time spent talking with family and friends without whose support it would be definitely harder. What have I learned? More importantly, what I’ve become? I am more confident, better organized and put together. I definitely feel humble and respect toward my and others work. As I mentioned in Noma much depends on you, if you find your way in this incredible machine. When you catch up what is going on, then you have a chance to learn a lot. Some people don’t see it this way, they think, that weeks spent on peeling thyme and cleaning moss are a waste of time. I think, from the beginning I knew my place in line and slowly I gained more and more skills. I used most of the equipment in the restaurant for the first time and the same way I learned new techniques.
Noma is not a big restaurant. It has a few tables, up to 60 people in times of lunches and dinners. Now that I know this place from inside, I admire the people who created it. A few hours of preparing components of dishes is really impressive. First of all, what matters is the guest, not as a client, but as a person who comes to eat in the best restaurant in the world. There’s no way anyone would be ignored or treated worse, so no matter if you are allergic to gluten, nuts and garlic, or you’re vegan. Your food will not be worse from the one served to others. It captivated me the most and I think, I will leave with this approach.
I’m a little sad that it’s over because this place really absorbed me. On the other hand, new things are ahead of me and it definitely opened some doors. I’m still eager for knowledge. I tried my hand with pleasure in a new location. It’s a great start. In the meantime there is a prize ahead of me, Saturday lunch in Noma. I can’t wait, and I take full report next week!
Text and photos: Maria Przybyszewska
The sponsor of Maria Przybyszewska’s report from the stay in Noma is HERMES, a manufacturer of functional water taste. www.hermes-amita.com.pl
NOMA: ALMOST THE END!
