Hull College launches refurbished training restaurant

OPEN FOR BUSINESS: Rob Lawson OBE, chair of governors at Hull College, launching Bilocca

By Rick Lyon, Co-Editor

Hull College has celebrated the opening of its newly refurbished training restaurant with two successful launch events.

The college’s chair of governors, Rob Lawson OBE, officially cut the ribbon for each event at Bilocca, welcoming community supporters, industry leaders and business partners, along with current and former staff.

The two evenings showcased the college’s talented Catering and Hospitality students, who rose to the occasion by preparing and serving a five-course tasting menu.

Attendees were treated to an array of delectable dishes, each expertly crafted and presented by the students, who demonstrated both skill and dedication in delivering exceptional service.

Rob said: “This is a proud moment for Hull College, seeing our talented students rise to the challenge and deliver a truly memorable dining experience.

WELL DONE!: Guests at Bilocca giving students and staff a round of applause

“Bilocca is much more than a restaurant - it’s a space for our students to develop their craft, innovate and build their confidence and industry skills in a setting that honours Hull’s values of hard work, courage and resilience.

“It forms part of our ongoing commitment to provide our students with inspirational learning environments, ensuring they leave us with the skills they need to be ready for their future careers.”

Jo Tills, general manager at Bilocca and Catering and Hospitality lecturer at the college, said: “The launch nights were a fantastic success.

“Our students poured their passion and skills into every dish, creating what was an unforgettable experience for our guests.

“I couldn’t be prouder of their hard work, dedication and commitment, and the way in which they represented the college across both events.

“The restaurant looked absolutely fantastic and feedback on the facilities, the standard of food and the performance of all of students - both in the kitchen and front of house - was that they were all excellent.

“We just can’t wait to open our doors to the public now!”

Bilocca will serve as a training ground for students from the college’s Catering and Hospitality courses, offering them a unique opportunity to gain real-world industry experience under the guidance of tutors.

Located in the college’s Horncastle Building on George Street, Hull city centre, the fully-licensed restaurant is now open for bookings every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, 12pm-2pm, as well as for an evening dinner service on Thursdays between 7pm-9pm.

The restaurant is named in honour of Lillian Bilocca and the Headscarf Revolutionaries, who fought to improve the safety of Hull’s fishermen in the 1960s.

• For more information about Bilocca, visit www.hull-college.ac.uk/bilocca.