The menu might have had a hint of Italian but the kitchen was overrun by Greek chefs at the Methodist Ladies College’s hospitality trade training Terrace restaurant. Over 60 people enjoyed a menu that featured Italian delights such as scallop saltimbocca and a ricotta and marscapone stuffed chicken brast with pumpkin and mustard fruit ravioli main.

Vasilios Dounodis, executive chef at Mama Baba, was the guest chef as students of Methodist Ladies College looked on and received technical skills and learnt about fresh produce while serving hungry diners in their restaurant. As part of the hospitality program the college offers, they have an onsite training restaurant for the students and guest chefs come in and compliment what we do, they keep us in touch with current industry trends.

Vicky Manos, Hospitality Team Leader, Methodist Ladies’ College, told Neos Kosmos that this is a good opportunity for students to learn about the trade they would like to get into. And, with the help of guests chefs – the college has hosted Shane Delia from St Katherine’s and the legendary Guy Grossi from Grossi Fiorentino – the students are able to make solid contacts in the industry.

“It helps the students to get a job in the industry if they know the chefs and have worked with them before,” said Manos. “It also gives them very specific technical skills keeps them in touch with what’s currently happening in restaurants.”