Staffed by students and run by experienced college tutors, Darlington College’s Glass House restaurant provides many students with their first rung on the ladder towards a career in hospitality. Karl Simmonds and Ian Hamilton were invited to find out more

Tucked alongside the college’s Haughton Road campus, the Glasshouse Restaurant is almost hidden from view.

Many don’t realise it’s here – including the two trainee journalists who were offered a two course taster session during Australia themed week.

The college offers eight themes across the academic year with dishes based on the culinary heritage of a chosen country.

On arrival, during a busy lunchtime service, we were greeted by Learning Support Assistant, Jerry Byerley. Jerry is on hand to help students work within what is a professional restaurant environment.

We were then met by Professional Tutor, Alison Warburton who teaches the NVQ level 1 food preparation and service course. As part of their curriculum, students are required to work at the Glass House Restaurant every Thursday.

After choosing from a menu full of Australian delights we were given the opportunity to observe catering students working in the kitchen.

The restaurant offers two courses for six pounds.

We chose crab cakes with a lemon crumb fraiche and tempura button mushrooms to start. Both were delicate, light and beautifully presented.

For our main course we had grilled mackerel with mango salsa and barbeque chicken. The addition of chorizo oil to the mackerel provided a subtle, spicy edge to a perfectly grilled fish. The barbeque chicken was sweet, tangy and served alongside well-seasoned hassel-back potatoes.

Throughout, the restaurant service was professionally delivered. For example, Saskia, our waitress, who also works at Clervaux on Coniscliffe Road, Darlington, was both cheerful and welcoming.

Don’t be fooled. The Glass House restaurant provides students with an opportunity to work in a professional environment while producing excellent, good-value food from around the world.

The restaurant is open Monday to Friday 10am ‘til 2pm.