KITCHEN UPGRADES

New state-of-the-art culinary facilities at Conestoga College’s Waterloo campus feature four teaching kitchens, with another two coming online congruent with enrolment and funding.

Particularly noteworthy, the design of the two main teaching kitchens features a retractable glass wall, allowing space for up to 48 individuals to participate in competitions, team-building and professional development. That space and a new student-run restaurant face University Avenue, bringing the college closer to the street, allowing the public to see in as they pass this prominent landmark. The new culinary facilities and associated event space are tailored to Waterloo Region’s historical roots and proximity to farms. For instance, an emphasis on butchery, charcuterie and artisanal cheese will reflect KitchenerWaterloo’s rich German history.

Other features include a dedicated lab for baking and pastry; space for mixology and wine tasting; and two new demonstration theatres with raked seating for 55 and 100 respectively, overlooking full-on kitchens. A new research kitchen, building on the college’s existing strengths in food processing, supply-chain management, nutrition management and seniors’ care, has a goal of supporting local industry. — Alex Bielak