ServSafe Q&A
I didn’t receive my book in the mail, but I registered for the full-day class with a study guide.
The study guide and book are separate. The study guide was emailed to you as part of your confirmation email when you registered.
When will I receive my results after taking a class?
Results are typically available within two weeks. As a courtesy, we will email your results to the email address provided at registration.
I took a class a few months or years ago and need a copy of my certificate.
To retrieve your certificate, please contact ServSafe customer care at 1-(800)-765–2122.
Can I use my book during the exam?
No, books, notes, scratch paper or other study materials are not allowed during the exam.
Can my business be invoiced for the class?
Yes, invoicing is available for select clients. Please submit your request to info@culinarycultivations.org for approval.
How will I know if I passed my exam?
Your results will be sent to the email address you provided during registration.
Can I pay at the class?
No, payment must be completed prior to class. Instructors cannot accept payments on the day of the class.
Do I need to take the full-day class?
The full-day class is required only in Ohio if you need credits for a Person In Charge certificate from the Ohio Department of Health. This requirement does not apply in other states.
Do I need to create or log into my ServSafe account to make changes to my class registration?
No, all registration changes must be made by calling our office at 1-(616)-808-1006.
I had a family, medical, or vehicle emergency on my way to class. How can I request a reschedule without paying the reschedule fee?
You can email info@culinarycultivations.org to request a reschedule exception form. Supporting documentation, such as a doctor’s note or tow receipt, is required for approval.
How do I register for a public in person class or exam?
You can register online via our website at https://www.culinarycultivations.org/schedule/ or over the phone by calling the office at 1-(616)-808-1006.
How do I pass the ServSafe manager exam?
The highest passing rate consists of studying using the latest edition of the ServSafe manager textbook, provided digital study guide and diagnostic test. Also attending the all-day class presentation.
What’s the difference in the ServSafe food handler and ServSafe manager certification?
The ServSafe Food Handler Certificate verifies basic food safety knowledge and is for individuals in food handler employee-level positions. Upon successful completion of the accredited Food Handler course and 40-question exam, the employee will receive a Certificate of Achievement from the National Restaurant Association that can be printed from a secure section of the website.
The ServSafe Manager Certification verifies that a manager or person-in-charge has sufficient food safety knowledge to protect the public from foodborne illness. Individuals that successfully pass the 90-question, multiple-choice exam will receive a ServSafe Manager Certification. The ServSafe Manager Certification is accredited by the American National Accreditation Board (ANAB) under the Conference for Food Protection Standards and is what you need for the health department.
What languages do you offer the ServSafe exam in?
We offer in person English language and Spanish language lead classes.
With a minimum of 2 weeks' notice of scheduled exam date we offer the exam in Korean/English, Chinese/English, French Canadian/English, Japanese/English, and Large Print.
How long is my ServSafe certificate good for?
The ServSafe manager certification is good for 5 years.
ServSafe Alcohol, ServSafe Allergens and ServSafe Food Handler Certificates are good for 3 years.
However, state or employer requirements can vary.
What does the exam consist of?
The exam consists of 90 multiple choice questions that you have 2 hours to complete. However, 10 are survey research questions and do not count towards your score. You must score at least 70% or higher to obtain your ServSafe manager certificate.
What is the difference between your classes, or the exam options you offer?
All-day Class No Book:
- Includes an in-person class led by an industry professional, lasting all day.
- You receive digital study materials via registration confirmation email (including a study guide and diagnostic test with answers).
- The option includes a proctored exam at the end of the class (you will be provided with the exam booklet, answer sheet, and pencil).
All-day Class with Book:
- This option also includes the all-day in-person class with an industry professional and a proctored exam.
- You will receive the same digital study materials as the first option (study guide, diagnostic test with answers).
- Additionally, you will receive a physical copy of the latest edition of the ServSafe manager textbook, which is shipped to you ahead of time - if you choose the All-day Class with Book option, it must be ordered at least six days before the class date. This ensures there is enough time to ship the textbook to you so you can study it before the class begins.
Exam Only:
- This option is for individuals who want to take the exam without attending the class or for retesting.
- The exam will be proctored in person, and you will be provided with the exam booklet, answer sheet, and pencil.
Consulting Q&A
What types of food service consulting do you offer?
We provide comprehensive support in the following areas:
- Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Development of clear, efficient workflows for kitchen operations, service, and compliance.
- Recipe Design & Costing: Creation of menu items with detailed costing to maximize profitability.
- Kitchen Design & Layout: Planning efficient kitchen spaces for new builds or remodels.
- Training Materials & Programs: Custom staff training guides, onboarding materials, and operational manuals.
- Food Safety & Compliance: ServSafe training, HACCP plan development, and health department compliance.
- Food Licensing & Permitting: Assistance with obtaining food service licenses and regulatory approvals.
Who can benefit from your consulting services?
Our services are ideal for:
- New restaurant owners and food entrepreneurs
- Established food service businesses looking to improve operations
- Catering companies and commissary kitchens
- Hotels, event venues, and corporate dining facilities
- Food manufacturers and processors
How do you customize consulting services for my business?
We begin with a detailed consultation to understand your business needs, challenges, and goals. From there, we tailor solutions that fit your specific operation, whether it’s optimizing workflows, reducing costs, or ensuring regulatory compliance.
Can you help with food licensing and health department approvals?
Yes, we guide businesses through the licensing and inspection process, ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
Do you provide hands-on training for my team?
Absolutely! We offer on-site and virtual training for kitchen staff, managers, and front-of-house teams, covering food safety, operational best practices, and customer service.
What is the process for developing SOPs and training materials?
We assess your current processes, identify areas for improvement, and create detailed SOPs and training materials designed to streamline operations and maintain consistency.
Can you assist with menu development and cost analysis?
Yes, we design recipes, conduct ingredient cost analysis, and help price menu items for maximum profitability while maintaining quality and consistency.
How long does the consulting process take?
Timelines vary based on the scope of the project. Some services, such as food safety training, can be completed in a day, while larger projects, like kitchen design or full SOP development, may take weeks or months.
How do I get started with your consulting services?
Contact us at info@culinarycultivations.org or call (616) 808-1006 to schedule a consultation. We’ll discuss your needs and develop a customized plan to support your business.
Staffing Q&A
Can you provide staff for my wedding or private event?
Absolutely! We offer servers, bartenders, buffet attendants, and line cooks to assist with setup, food service, and cleanup for your event.
Are you a catering company?
No, we are a staffing agency specializing in food service professionals. However, we provide experienced cooks, prep cooks, and executive chefs who can handle food preparation and service at your event.
How do I request staffing support?
Email us at staffing@culinarycultivations.org or call (616) 808-1006, and a member of our team will assist you.
How far in advance should I book staff?
We recommend booking at least two weeks in advance for guaranteed coverage. However, we do our best to accommodate last-minute requests during business hours.
Do you provide staffing outside of Grand Rapids?
We primarily serve West Michigan, including the Lakeshore, but can accommodate staffing needs beyond this region upon request.
What are the qualifications of your staff?
Our team consists of experienced hospitality professionals, many with ServSafe certifications, formal culinary training, and extensive industry experience.
What should I expect from Culinary Cultivations staff at my event?
Our staff arrive on time, in proper uniform, and ready to work. They are professional, knowledgeable, and committed to providing exceptional service.
Will staff bring their own equipment?
Staff arrive in the appropriate uniform. Any specialty equipment must be provided by the client unless otherwise arranged.
How do you handle last-minute staffing changes?
We maintain a large pool of on-call professionals and make every effort to replace any unavailable staff member. We communicate promptly if unexpected changes arise.
How is staffing priced?
Pricing depends on the type of staff needed, event duration, and any special requirements. Contact us for a customized quote.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellations made within a certain timeframe may incur a fee. Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to adjust your staffing request.
How do I pay for services?
We accept various payment methods, including credit cards and invoices. Payment terms will be outlined in your contract.
Can your bartenders provide alcohol for my event?
Our certified bartenders can serve alcohol, but clients must provide all beverages. If you need a full service bar service, we recommend our preferred partner, The Bar & Tender.
Do you offer full-service catering?
No, but we can connect you with catering partners or assist with culinary operations.