By Akenda Steward
CCC Journalism Program
BLACKWOOD – The Blackwood Bistro, a gourmet restaurant that operated one night a week each semester since spring 2014 in Kevin G. Halpern Hall, will not open this semester and may not return, the director of the college’s culinary program said Tuesday.
“The Blackwood Bistro returning is somewhat up in the air at the moment,” said Program Director Kaina Hanna. “We aren’t sure if we are going to relocate or just not return. However, if we do, it will be around the fall semester of 2016.”
Each Thursday evening in the last three semesters, a space in Halpern Hall was transformed into an upscale restaurant with low lighting and fine linens. Culinary program students, along with their instructors, Chefs Lou Caruso and Bill Warshart, prepared a five-course, sit-down dinner for employees, students and families.
Kiera Hunter, a Camden County College student who was in the culinary program for high school students at Camden County Technical School, said working alongside chefs would interest her. “That would be a pretty cool experience, especially being able to create five-course meals. I would definitely want to look into that programs, perhaps in another year, but that would be a really great accomplishment for me personally.”
If the Blackwood Bistro returns, it will be open at 7 p.m. Thursdays, the cost to dine there will be $30 per person and reservations will be encouraged a week in advance by calling 856-347-4910.
Halpern Hall has a newly renovated café. By Akenda Steward, CCC Journalism Program