Fork ‘n Film guests served food from the movie
Ever wonder what the food in a movie actually tastes like?
For guests at the first-ever Fork ‘n Film fundraiser at the Dan Dipert Career + Technical Center (CTC), there was no need to wonder. Arlington ISD’s culinary and hospitality students made sure of that, bringing the flavors of “The Princess and the Frog” straight from the screen to the table.
The event earlier this week was cooked up by hospitality and tourism instructor Emily Barron, who envisioned it as both a unique experience and a fundraiser. Then Arlington ISD culinary and hospitality students led the event, cooked all the food and served all the guests.
“It’s really exciting,” Barron said. “It’s an eight-course meal Chef Sanchez and I worked on together. We’re going to be having gumbo and beignets. It’s very immersive and we’re very excited.”
The night opened with the viewing of “The Princess and the Frog” while delicious dishes like jambalaya, gumbo and king cake were served. When beignets appeared in the film, student servers rushed across the room to serve warm beignets, making the cinematic dining experience memorable.
Arlington ISD culinary arts teacher Nelly Sanchez saw the excitement brewing in the kitchen firsthand.
“I know the students were excited, especially the hospitality side being able to practice serving,” Sanchez said. “For my culinary kids, they were excited to create a menu and be more involved in cooking.”
For culinary student Julie Richardson, seeing the ideas come to fruition was the most rewarding part.
“I think it’s really exciting being able to work hard and put together something like this,” Richardson said.
Barron felt the same way.
“To finally put their skills to use is amazing,” she said. “It takes a lot of positivity, hard work and determination, and it takes a team to make your vision come to life.”
By the time culinary and hospitality students finish their program at the CTC, they will be equipped with the skills and knowledge to continue their culinary education or land a job.
“The most important thing is that these kids are getting real-life experience,” said culinary arts teacher Anai Arzola. “I think that puts them a step ahead of the game. They can put on their resume that they have experience in hospitability and culinary.”
With the success of the first Fork ‘n Film event, the students have set the bar high for future culinary experiences at the CTC. And the journey doesn’t stop here. Plans for the next Fork ‘n Film event are already in motion, promising another night of great food, a great movie and hands-on learning opportunities.
Proceeds from the event will support the culinary and hospitality programs, helping students gain valuable hands-on experience. Learn more about the Arlington ISD hospitality and tourism career cluster here.