The Grill Authority Rule
THE RULE
The man cooking controls the grill; nobody touches the heat, food, or tongs without being asked.
WHAT THIS MEANS
A grill has one captain. Advice may be offered once, but grabbing the tongs is a backyard coup.
WHEN IT DOES NOT APPLY
- The cook formally hands over grill duty
- Flames create an immediate safety problem
- The cook leaves and clearly names a replacement
EXAMPLES
- VIOLATION: You lift every burger to inspect it after the cook says they are not ready.
- NO VIOLATION: The grill master asks you to watch the chicken while he gets a fresh tray.