READY TO SERVE — Culinary arts instructor Glen Zalenski helps pupils Khloe Sears, Trinity Larrick and Gabe Crawford in the kitchen area at the Jefferson County Joint Vocational School. -- Contributed

BLOOMINGDALE — Culinary arts students are getting some real-life work experience by performing catering services for the Crestview Inn Restaurant.

The eatery, based at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School, re-opened last month and offers dine-in and take-out services, and now instructor Glen Zalenski said his 12 juniors and seniors will work at off-site events. The restaurant is hosting small gatherings for educators at the JVS throughout October but will provide food for 100 people at the PALS adult day program’s annual Thanksgiving activity. Zalenski said his class worked with PALS last year and they were looking forward to helping again.

“In the past, they brought 10-12 people up here and they enjoyed what the students were doing, so they asked us to do their in-house events,” he said.

Zalenski was still planning the menu but expected some holiday fare with turkey and all the fixings.

Students are currently working to complete their ServSafe safety and food preparation credential and will take an exam, then they will have state-required certification to work in the industry. Zalenski said it was the first major sanitation and food safety exam and they will seek more certifications, plus he hopes to enter students in culinary competitions to put their skills to the test.

The newly remodeled restaurant seats 40 people and has entertained school and community groups in the past, while students cater the JVS school board’s annual organizational meetings each January. Zalenski was seeking to plan a possible buffet in early November and said performing the service helps prepare his pupils for working in the real world.

“I’m excited about things they are learning now. They are taking their leadership skills very seriously,” he added, saying his students have been learning skills very quickly.

The restaurant operates Tuesday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and offers a menu of appetizers, salads, dinners, sandwiches and a la carte sides while desserts and specials are available. Crestview comes equipped with a smoker for meats and added a hydroponics tree to grow its own lettuce and herbs, plus it offers fresh-brewed coffee and cappuccino. Students may purchase coffee and cappuccino from 7:30 a.m. to 8 a.m. while the public can enjoy the warm beverages with their lunch. Most recently, students prepared smoked brisket and barbecue ribs, while wings were being added along with seasonal fare. Zalenski said the menu will expand as his student chefs learn to create more meals and they will also learn to make homemade pasta, cakes, pies and sweets.

“We’re still working on the basics and the kids are getting through the first round of rotations. After the second round, we will change positions,” he explained, saying students alter their time between cooking in the kitchen and serving in the restaurant. “It’s always continuous learning. As the students get into making larger meals, the menu will change.”

Diners were pleased with their experience and said it was a win-win for the program and the public.

“I like it for the kids,” said patron Diane Sogan. “It’s a wonderful experience to help with their future careers. It gives them something to be prepared for when they graduate.”

“It also teaches them valuable people skills,” added diner Lindsay Murgatroyd.

Phone orders are being taken but online orders may also be added in the future. Take-out orders can be picked up at the restaurant in the rear of the building, while reservations and orders can be made by calling (740) 264-5545, Ext. 602.