*Stew Cues
Stew Cues: The Continental divide at the dining table is drawn on a ‘zigzag’
Stew Cues: by Alene Keenan When I have had the pleasure of having a meal with the crew while training on board a yacht, I often find non-U.S. crew staring…
Stew Cues: Silver service protocol depends on preferences
Stew Cues: by Alene Keenan Stews frequently ask what is the correct way to perform silver service. There is more than one proper way to serve, whether from the left…
Stew Cues: Brand legacies provide clue to service standard
Stew Cues: by Alene Keenan Thinking of luxury conjures words like “quality” and “price.” Luxury involves craftsmanship and intricate work. It is refined and opulent, often handmade and tailored for…
Stew Cues: Purity, traditional processing key to good tequila
Stew Cues: by Alene Keenan In my wine and spirits classes, discussing tequila usually elicits strong responses, both good and bad. Younger, inexperienced students may say that it tastes gross,…
Stew Cues: Handling costly, fragile crystal can be terrifying
Stew Cues: by Alene Keenan I recently helped outfit a yacht with glassware. The owners found a beautiful set of antique cobalt blue Baccarat glasses. Service for 12 included 84…
Stew Cues: Serving cigars takes some know-how
Stew Cues: by Alene Keenan As a nonsmoker, cigar service onboard seemed intimidating to me at first. I’ve found crumbly, dried up cigars in some humidors, while other boats have…
Stew Cues: Wood finishes need special care
Stew Cues: by Alene Keenan Wooden boats have been around for thousands of years, and the characteristics of traditional woods have stood the test of time. Teak, oak, cherry, walnut,…
R-E-S-P-E-C-T: No crew can succeed without it
Stew Cues: by Alene Keenan Yachting is a microcosm of society with an interesting twist. Catering to some of the richest and most powerful people in the world, crew are…
Stew Cues: Whiskey has style, and exciting heritage to match
Stew Cues: by Alene Keenan Basic knowledge of spirit classifications is important for drink service. When a guest orders a whiskey drink, we need to establish whether they want an…
Stew Cues: Proper care of leather shoes, bags pays off with longer wear
Stew Cues: by Alene Keenan The cool spell we’ve been having makes me nostalgic for fall clothing and boots, and the smell of leather polish. I love that smell. I collected…
