In a showcase of their carefully honed skills, culinary arts students Maddie Gukenisen, Autumn Vang and Tatum Juskie brought their talents to the Kirkwood Cafe on the first floor of Iowa Hall earlier this month.
Presenting a menu including mushroom wontons, chicken and rice bowls, and coconut ice cream, students and staff could be heard raving about their delicious dining experience. Thoughtful planning was apparent in the way the flavors complimented one another, making a cohesive and delectable three-course meal conveniently available at an affordable price.
The annual event allows students in the Culinary Arts program to not only showcase their world class skills as chefs-in-the-making but also gain insight into what to expect from the demands of a rush in a high-traffic restaurant.
Offering samples to curious consumers, praise echoed through the cafe and was frequently indulged in by the delighted diners. For many, the gourmet meal allowed them a window into fine dining despite being inconspicuously packaged in disposable takeout boxes.
Digital arts student Skye Brown was quick to endorse the experience. When asked about their takeaways from the meal, Brown was one of many praising the fine quality of the food. Readily offering their opinion on their gustatory encounter, they said, “I tried everything that they have. It was all really good, but the entree really hit it out of the park, as did the dessert. I loved the citrus glaze on the coconut ice cream. It was delicious.”
Students in Kirkwood’s culinary arts program can count on a world class education.
According to its page on Kirkwood’s website, the “program is accredited by the American Culinary Federation as an ‘Exemplary’ program which symbolizes the highest educational standards recognized by the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation Accrediting Commission (ACFEFAC), and was awarded one of the 50 Best Programs by Best Choice Schools to offer quality programs which can help students be successful in the field of culinary arts.”
In addition to their talents and skills developed in Kirkwood’s state-of-the-art kitchen labs in the Hotel at Kirkwood Center students can expect to gain real-world experience through both serving gourmet meals at The Class Act in the Kirkwood Hotel or during internships. Students have taken their talents throughout the nation and abroad during their internship, showcasing their skills on a domestic and international level.
If the tasteful and tasty takeover piqued your interest in culinary arts, the program’s webpage offers insight into the expectations, requirements and course plan for this major offered by Kirkwood’s Hospitality Arts. Find out more at kirkwood.edu/culinary-arts or by reaching out at 319-848-8770 or by email at hospitalityarts@kirkwood.edu.
Categories: Opinion
