Whet your appetite! November will begin with a highly anticipated reopening at NC.
Back by popular demand, Benchmark will reopen to the public for lunch service three days per week, starting November 1, from Wednesday to Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Lunch service will be open for reservations only to start and reservations may be made via Open Table.
Benchmark reopens with celebrated Chef Justin Downes at the helm. Chef Downes brings a brings a wealth of experience from an impressive career spanning over two decades. Prior to his long tenure of teaching part-time in the School of Culinary Arts, Downes was formerly at Vineland Estates Winery. Here at NC, Downes has become a beloved figure among students and continues to demonstrate a deep commitment to nurturing the next generation of culinary talents. View announcement here.
‘Front of house’ will be managed by Victor Oliveira. Oliveira begun his role as manager of Catering and Special Events at NC in September. Oliveira has worked at renowned institutions including Scaramouche, Sotto Sotto, Pizzeria Libretto, Backhouse, and Leaning Post Wines throughout his career. View announcement here.
More experience is on the menu for students, as a result of Benchmark’s reopening. Benchmark will employ NC students, from culinary and hospitality programs, to work back- and front-of-house, respectively.
Located at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Benchmark had an established reputation far beyond campus boundaries, as a popular, award-winning Niagara dining establishment. Its regular restaurant operations ceased in December 2019 and, since 2022, it has been devoted to academic initiatives from the Culinary, Tourism and Beverage Studies division – including pop-ups, final exam lunches and dinners and more.
Academic offerings from the School of Culinary Arts will continue at Benchmark, as part of the Culinary, Tourism and Beverage Studies division. For information about upcoming events, visit Benchmark on Facebook at www.facebook.com/benchmarkatnc (must be logged into Facebook to view).
The menu will focus on a three-course experience. Watch for more details during the weeks ahead!
