Gourmet: From a Stall in Northern Europe-Chapter 107 - 103: Seafood Market, Oyster Paradise

A few minutes before nine on Monday morning, at the front desk of God's Kiss Restaurant, Chef Raphael gathered ten employees to announce the news.

Besides the front desk manager, barista, and bartender, there were seven waitstaff present, though usually only five were needed on duty.

"Caroline, Elsa, congratulations to you both. According to the envelope Lin left behind, you've been selected to be his assistants. You can now set off for Dieppe, and we wish you a safe journey."

Dais Caroline clasped her hands in front of her chest, exhaling a long sigh. Her eyes sparkled, and gratitude for Lin Chen overflowed in her heart.

Elsa, a newcomer who had been on the job for less than three months and hadn't even finished her training period, unable to independently serve guests, stared in disbelief, pointing at herself with wide, clear eyes.

"Me? Ah? Chef, is there some mistake?"

She had thought she was called in to cover a shift, as everyone knew today was the announcement of the selection, and a rookie like her had no chance of being picked.

"Yes, it's you, Elsa. Be confident."

Chef Raphael probably guessed Lin Chen's intention and nodded in satisfaction, turning the letter around for everyone to see.

"Although you're not yet fully transferred, we've seen your hard work over the past three months, coming earlier than this guy and leaving the latest. I think that's probably why Lin chose you, right?"

"Actually, I'm not really sure of the reason either, haha. You'll have to ask him personally when you get there."

The other waitstaff, though disgruntled, had no choice but to accept it.

Instead of engaging in fruitless arguments, it's better to focus on work. Those who can stay and work are the smart ones.

"Elsa, we'll be colleagues for a while now. Where do you live? Do you have a car? If you don't mind, you can take my car."

Dais pulled Elsa along as they walked out of the restaurant. As the most experienced person, she knew what to do in moments like these.

"I've been to Dieppe often, so I'm familiar with the place. Try to pack light; you can buy whatever you need there. It's much cooler there than here~"

Elsa wasn't very talkative, and Dais kept the conversation lively the whole time.

By the time they packed their luggage and arrived in Dieppe, it was just noon.

With the possibility of taking the highway, the hundred kilometers or so only took about an hour, not very far.

When Chef Raphael sent the message, Lin Chen was strolling on the beach. Calculating the time, he went to the hotel entrance to welcome the two ladies in advance.

"Welcome, both of you. Let's check in first and drop off your luggage, then I'll take you to visit the restaurant."

"Oh my gosh, a free hotel stay!!"

The sudden surprise left the two ladies speechless, and even as they followed Lin Chen out of the hotel, they hadn't fully recovered from this windfall.

Especially Elsa, who felt as if she were dreaming.

"Here's our restaurant. I've already taken a quick look around. The environment is great, filled with greenery inside. There's an outdoor area where you can sit on the beach, enjoy the sea view, and taste delicious food."

The restaurant has two levels, with the second floor offering more privacy and a balcony area, ideal for couples.

Seeing that there was no one else around, Elsa couldn't help but express her curiosity.

"Chef Lin, may I ask why you chose me? I'm still an intern and haven't served guests on my own yet..."

"Does that matter?"

Lin Chen leaned on the glass railing of the second floor, a slight smile on his lips.

"Lack of experience isn't a big deal; you can learn gradually. Moreover, it's easier to mold newcomers than older employees. The most important thing is your attitude. I see a reflection of my younger self in you."

He turned his head, his gaze falling on the girl's face.

"Elsa, do you have Asian heritage? You don't quite look Caucasian."

Dais nodded in agreement, "Indeed, I've always thought you and Chef Lin share a similar aura. But I've never heard you speak your language; is your family an immigrant?"

"Me? I am indeed of mixed heritage."

Elsa smiled shyly, "My full name is Elsa von Ichi. Elsa is the English name my grandfather gave me, Von is my father's last name, and Ichi is the name my mother gave me."

"...?"

Lin Chen's expression turned peculiar.

Ichi?

Masaka...

Recalling how this girl exuded warmth and friendliness when she worked, he suddenly had a realization.

If she has some "little day" heritage, then it would make sense.

"My father is a Chinese-French mix, and he met my mother while traveling, so strictly speaking, I'm a blend of three countries. As for Chinese, my father doesn't really speak it, so he never taught me. I do understand and speak a bit of Japanese, but I can't write it."

"No wonder, I didn't expect you to know so many languages. I suppose you're comfortable with English, French, and Japanese?"

Dais raised her hand with a smile, "I've learned German and can manage simple conversations in English. With Chef Lin's Chinese, our group can at least cater to most international travelers, definitely better than the other group!"

"Haha, it seems I didn't choose wrong. Congratulations on a great start for us!"

The three chatted briefly, exchanged contact information with Lin Chen, and set up a group chat specifically for work.

"By the way, does anyone know when the people sent from Paris will arrive?"