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LBCC Bistro: Fine dining on a student budget

By Cain Carbajal

Ambient music, waiters dressed in formal attire, and expansive ceilings greeted patrons of The Bistro’s weekly service. At first glance, The Bistro appears just like any other fine dining restaurant, the only difference, it is completely student run by LBCC’s own culinary arts students.

From front to back of the house, students completely run the show. Being open to the public as well, it gives them the opportunity to gain real world experience in the kitchen and service industry, earning college credit right alongside that.

“It’s an eye opener for how a real kitchen will work. Y’know, hit the pedal to the medal,” said Chris Williams who is a second year student and chef at The Bistro.

Every week, The Bistro serves a different cuisine and with options to choose from. At $18 for three courses it offers a great deal for those seeking a different dining experience, especially as LAC continues without an on campus cafeteria.

Christopher Winfield, a chef of The Bistro spoke on his experience working. 

“It’s a great opportunity for students to sharpen their skills and provide services to the school on campus,” said Winfield.

“It’s a really fun new experience. I get to dive more into baking in the culinary industry,” he added.

Shot of expo line with a server walking past as lunch service comes to an end. (Rene Trujillo Jr.)

The weekly menu is a group effort between students and their culinary arts teacher. 

“Head chef Haylee picks the cuisine, we give her suggestions on what she’d like or what we’d like to cook…and what sells,” said Winfield.

This week, the cuisine selected was Latin American inspired, including chicken pozole (a Mexican stew), Brazilian Moqueca (fish stew), and chocoflan as some of their course options. 

The Bistro also offers vegan alternatives to every course, every week, and makes a point to do so. 

As Williams said, “When people ask if we have a vegan or vegetarian option we want to make it a step ahead.” 

The addition of these vegan alternatives makes The Bistro an even more inclusive spot for anyone wanting to experience fine cuisine, regardless of dietary preferences. 

Guests talking while waiting for their plates at the LBCC Bistro. Live footage of the kitchen plays and staff helps guests in the background. (Rene Trujillo Jr.)

“It’s by students and it’ll be for students,” he said.

Service is open to the public every Tuesday and Wednesday, and reservations should be made in advance with an email to bistro@lbcc.edu. Located in building V, it’s a convenient spot for lunch reservations after class.

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