Vancouver’s Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts Expands Facility

The addition of a bar and lounge area allows PICA to include beverage and wine training.

In 1997, Vancouver’s Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts (PICA) was the first culinary school in Canada with its own onsite training restaurant.

Now, they have just completed renovations that will transform the restaurant and add a full service bar.

“The change looks amazing” said Sue Singer, President and Founder of PICA.

“I think Bistro 101’s stunning new look elevates our guests’ expectations of our service. That will demand an even greater attention to detail from our students to deliver the best dining experience possible.”

Front of the house service has always been a part of the culinary school’s curriculum. But now, the addition of a bar and lounge area allows PICA to include beverage and wine training as well.

“It’s important for us to make sure that our grads have a solid understanding of food service operations beyond the kitchen pass”, said Julian Bond, Executive Chef & Program Director.

“That includes every aspect of both the back- and the front- of the house. Cooks should know where their food is going and how every team member plays a role in making sure a guest’s expectations are exceeded.”

PICA has included the Foundation Level Wine certification from the London-based Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) and a Food & Beverage Operations Management certificate course, as part of both their professional Culinary Arts and Baking & Pastry Program Curriculums.

Schools mentioned: Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts