Career Center reopens student-run restaurant as 518 Bistro

A fresh dining experience is coming to the Wayne County Schools Career Center as the school’s student-run restaurant officially reopens under its new name, 518 Bistro. The rebranded restaurant was launched Sept. 23 and offers the public a new menu, a new format and the same hands-on training opportunity for culinary arts students.

The student-operated restaurant allows culinary arts students to put classroom lessons into practice by planning menus, preparing meals from scratch and serving guests in a professional setting. The experience gives students real-world skills while providing the community with meals.

“I’m really excited,” senior culinary arts student Deacon DuPre said. “I like the new style we’re going for and the new menu we voted on. Everything we learn in class, we're going to put out in the restaurant as a learning experience. I’m most excited for the chicken cordon bleu crepes.”

Community members are invited to dine in and experience the new menu while supporting the next generation of culinary professionals.

“We're giving the kids the opportunity to actually have some real-life industry experience,” instructor Stefanie Tuttle said. “They're developing it. They have a lot more ownership. The rotational menu gives the community a chance to experience what the students are learning in real life as they’re learning it.”

When asked what restaurant-goers should expect, Tuttle said, “Expect some creativity from the students as far as the recipes and menus go, 90% from scratch items, fresh, quick service, and great quality without having to use an entire lunch hour.”

518 Bistro is open Tuesday through Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., serving a rotating buffet menu designed and prepared by students. This fall guests can get a brunch-inspired menu through Oct. 17, all for $9 per person including a drink.

For more information visit www.wcscc.edu.