Dundalk IT students turn campus into luxury pop-up restaurant

Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT’s) Culinary Arts, Event Management, and Hospitality Management Year 3 students came together to deliver another DkITchen Pop-Up Restaurant & Event experience from March 3rd to 6th. 

Throughout the week, students took full control of the institute’s hospitality training restaurant, bar, and production kitchen, transforming them into a fully operational commercial dining experience. Guests enjoyed a variety of morning coffees, lunches, brunch and afternoon tea.

The dining experiences included; two 7-course tasting dinners, with standout themes such as Oscars Night and Red Velvet, and a Bridgerton Afternoon Tea. The decor, generously sponsored by WOW Weddings, added to the immersive dining experience. 

This hands-on project gave students the opportunity to plan, manage, and execute every aspect of running a restaurant and events, from menu planning and budgeting to marketing, decor and operations. With guidance from lecturers Lorraine Dunne, Glenn McCormack, Maria Roddy Freyne, Alan McCabe, Derick Englishby and Rose Leonard, the students gained valuable industry experience and showcased their exceptional skills. 

Read Next: Louth secures green light for new domestic violence refuge

A spokesperson said: "The DkITchen Pop-Up is a fantastic example of innovation in education, bringing together three third-year class groups and multiple lecturers from Hospitality, Event Management, and Culinary Arts. This collaborative approach not only provided students with real-world experience but also fostered teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving skills. By integrating diverse perspectives and expertise, team teaching enriched the learning experience, allowing students to benefit from multiple teaching styles, industry insights, and hands-on application in a dynamic, cross-disciplinary environment. 

"The event was met with widespread acclaim from staff, students, and restaurant visitors from the community, reinforcing its reputation as a fantastic initiative in hospitality, event and culinary education."