The Monroe College Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management launched a Culinary Arts minor at MacMenamin’s Grill in New Rochelle on Friday, January 10. Taught by Visiting Distinguished Professor Brian MacMenamin, the course teaches the basic skills, terminology, recipes, and procedures necessary for careers in the food service industry.

“It’s a natural extension of our Hospitality and Tourism Management Division,” said Monroe Associate Academic Dean Carol Genese. “We’re going to open up the world of culinary arts and all the opportunities that course of study can bring to Monroe students. Whether they want to pursue culinary or management employment, this new minor will provide a comprehensive introduction to a key component of the industry.”

The 21 students who started in the program were dressed in distinguished white chef hats and aprons as they began learning techniques in poaching, boiling, steaming, simmering, blanching, roasting, and braising. There will also be instruction in the proper application and use of utensils, as well as kitchen management and organization, timing, menu and recipe structure, seasoning in the preparation of stocks, soups, sauces, and the proper handling of fruits and vegetables, starches, poultry, fish, and meats. There will also be an emphasis on proper sanitation and safety methods.

“Professionals in the food-service industry have an obligation to make training accessible to everyone,” said Professor MacMenamin, the restaurant’s executive chef. “The Monroe Culinary Arts minor will give students what they need to get a head start on their careers.” The Monroe College Culinary Arts minor debuted its first course on January 10. Additional courses will be introduced shortly. The Culinary Arts minor is open to Monroe students in either the Bronx or New Rochelle campuses. Free transportation is provided between campuses. For information about Culinary Arts, Hospitality and Tourism Management, or any of Monroe’s other programs contact the Monroe Admissions Department at 718-933-6700.

McMenamin’s Grill is located in a regal turn-of-the century warehouse building at 115 Cedar Street, in New Rochelle, NY. It’s an upscale retro-American steakhouse with a variety of specialties, including stove-oven duck confit, pizzas, foiegras, pastas, and seafood.