On Tuesday 21st October, Colchester Institute’s Balkerne Restaurant proudly celebrated the relaunch of its newly refurbished facilities.
The restaurant, which plays a central role in training Catering and Hospitality students, has undergone a major refurbishment with industry-standard equipment. Alongside the installation of a modernised bar, the dining area has brand new tables, chairs, and industrial-inspired furnishings, creating a vibrant and professional learning environment for students.
This marks the restaurant’s first refurbishment since 2002, and the results have made a significant impact. The updated look was created with the vision of being fresh and timeless. Work took place over the summer holidays, making the transformation a complete surprise for students returning in September.
The Balkerne Restaurant gives students the chance to get hands-on experience in hospitality and food service. Open to the public, guests can enjoy a meal while supporting the next generation of chefs and front-of-house staff. With themed evenings and events, students can build their customer service and event planning skills, while trainee chefs can serve up their dishes to real, paying customers.
Renata East, Head of Hospitality and Salon Studies said: “It’s been amazing seeing the impact of the refurbishment. The new look has attracted more guests, with a visible increase in bookings. The restaurant has a whole new energy, with both staff and students excited and proud of the space. It will create a better experience for our students, who feel inspired and motivated in their learning environment.”
The relaunch event was officially opened by Milsom Hotels & Restaurants and welcomed local chefs and restaurant staff, students, and staff, who gathered to enjoy the restaurant’s facilities.
The Balkerne Restaurant is open for lunch during term-time only from Wednesday to Friday.
It is open for dinner on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Booking enquiries can be made online at dishcult.com/restaurant/balkernerestaurant.
Alternatively, you can email balkerne.restaurant@colchester.ac.uk or call 01206 587511.
