Back to school never tasted so sweet. Today, Red River College opened the doors to the Paterson GlobalFoods Institute for diners looking to experience the hospitality and culinary skills students have to offer.

Located in the heart of the Exchange District, Jane’s restaurant and the Culinary Exchange are officially open for business again. Students are excited to apply their learning, and offer guests the chance to taste the latest and greatest in upscale, urban cuisine.

With the fall academic term underway, these openings offer more than just a spot to enjoy fabulous food — they’re an important part of the learning process for Hospitality and Culinary Arts students as they practice and refine their skills.

“Red River College has always been a cornerstone in Winnipeg’s hospitality and culinary industry,” says Kirk Johnson, Dean, Hospitality and Culinary Arts. “We’re excited to be open for business again, and provide a range of delicious dining and meal options for our community.”

Both Jane’s and the Culinary Exchange closed their doors in March at the onset of COVID-19. Since then, the College has followed public health guidelines to implement a number of measures so guests can again enjoy the mouth-watering options students are serving up.

“Our renowned chefs and culinary students are busy cooking up a storm in these kitchens,” says Karen McDonald, Chair, School of Hospitality and Culinary Arts. “In addition, our hospitality students are ready and eager to welcome guests back inside these elegant and vibrant locations.”

While guests can expect the same top-notch cuisine, some things will look a little different in the wake of the pandemic. Anyone who visits one of these locations will be required to wear a non-medical face mask (except while eating), sanitize their hands upon entry, and follow all physical distancing or other guidelines that have been put in place.

“We’ve taken many steps to ensure our guests can enjoy their dining experiences safely,” says McDonald. “Students rely on these restaurants to be busy to hone their skills and enhance their learning. Using state-of-the-art equipment in the kitchen, students are guided by chef instructors to get the hands-on experience they need to succeed in industry after graduation.”

Jane’s is now accepting reservations online, with lunch service re-opening today and dinner service re-opening on Sept. 24. The Culinary Exchange is a public food court that offers many breakfast and lunch items prepared by students, and is now open with no reservation required.

The College resumed its fall academic term on Aug. 31, welcoming back students both online and on campus for essential hands-on training. Jane’s and the Culinary Exchange are the only areas of the Paterson GlobalFoods Institute that are currently open to the public.