Omaha has a unique and diverse culinary scene that’s gaining more and more national attention, and that’s due in part to the presence of Metropolitan Community College and its Culinary program. Here, students not only get the knowledge and technical skills in the classroom, but get to put their skills to practice serving the public in a real restaurant.
Sage Student Bistro (5730 N 30th St Bldg 22) is located right on Metro’s campus and invites the community to come in and see what its students are learning. The restaurant serves a variety of small plates and sandwiches for lunch before transitioning to a prix fixe menu for dinner. The students not only work on the line in the kitchen, but they run the pass, serve as hosts and waiters, and take turns leading the kitchen and creating specials.
Most culinary schools have students get experience through externships and stages at local restaurants. Metro CC also encourages its students to get experience in the field, but working at Sage Student Bistro not only allows them to work together and create camaraderie, but also get on-the-job correction and instruction from the culinary professors.
Associate Dean Brian O’Malley said it’s crucial for the school’s lessons to be real, not just theoretical. That’s why Metro’s program not only requires that every student takes cooking and baking classes, but also learns about restaurant costing, front of house service, food safety, and more.
The classes allow the students to follow a designated track to help them quickly move through the program if they wish. Start to finish, the program takes about two years to complete, though O’Malley said it’s common for students to take a break or pause if life gets to busy. They’re welcome to return at any time.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in the culinary arts, Metro’s culinary program is a great place to start, and students of all ages are welcome. Or if you want a great meal and want to see the students at work, stop into Sage Student Bistro to enjoy a great meal.
