The Cornerstone Dining Room at Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) is more than a place to enjoy a delicious meal. It's an immersive learning environment where RDP Culinary Arts Diploma students bring their classroom training to life, gaining the confidence and technical skills needed to thrive in professional settings.
Located on RDP's main campus in Room 1500, Cornerstone Dining welcomes guests to experience the creativity and dedication of emerging culinary talent while directly supporting their education and training.
"Cornerstone Dining gives our students authentic industry experience where they can apply their skills with purpose," says David Pye, Dean, School of Trades and Technology, Red Deer Polytechnic. "These hands-on learning opportunities give students real insight into professional expectations and help them build on fundamental techniques that will support their success well into their careers."
Students in the Culinary Arts program step into a fully functioning commercial dining room that mirrors the pace and expectations of the industry. Here, they practice core techniques classical cooking methods, multitasking, efficiency, pride in craftsmanship and clean station habits while progressing into more advanced skills. Each service gives them the chance to rotate through essential roles, from line cook to pastry chef to front-of-house leadership, helping them understand the teamwork required in a professional kitchen.
"In the Cornerstone Dining Room, students aren't just following recipes, they're mastering the core skills that define professional culinary practices," says Garnett Schoettler, Culinary instructor, Red Deer Polytechnic. "From precise knife work and proper seasoning to timing, plating and coordinating a full service, they learn how to execute at an industry level."
Cornerstone Dining also strengthens students' connections to the local food community. By working with regional producers and suppliers, students learn the importance of sourcing high-quality ingredients. These partnerships not only elevate the dishes served but also help students build valuable industry relationships.
RDP's Culinary Arts program has been collaborating with vendors Troubled Monk, Sylvan Star Cheesemakers and The Grizzly Paw Brewing Company, showcasing the expertise of Alberta producers and the power of collaboration. Troubled Monk has created a Yes, Chef! Lager, designed specifically to serve patrons in the Cornerstone Dining Room.
Beginning February 12, Cornerstone Dining will be open to the public Thursdays and Fridays for lunch from 11:30 am to 1 pm and for dinner from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Guests can enjoy a traditional table-service experience with a fresh weekly menu. March will feature special tasting events with unique menus and collaborations, offering an elevated dining experience that showcases the full range of student talent. The dining room will close on March 27 and reopen in October.
Parking is convenient for visitors. During the day, Lot 22, just north of the Arts Centre, is the closest option to the Cornerstone Dining Room, with paid parking in effect. After 4 pm, guests receive complimentary parking in Lot 20, located nearby.
As part of the Polytechnic's culinary programming, Red Deer Polytechnic also offers a Cook Apprenticeship.
For more information about the Cornerstone Dining Room, including to reserve a table, please visit: rdpolytech.ca/cornerstone-dining.
