Low-cost dining option gives Halifax residents something to chew on

CITYnews halifax/ By Steve Gow

A Halifax university is giving the public a chance to enjoy a dining experience that most people can afford.

Vincent’s is a seasonal restaurant that is run by students in the Tourism & Hospitality Management program at Mount Saint Vincent University.

Established in 1987, the teaching restaurant opens for two months beginning in February to provide students with hands-on experience running and managing an eatery.

However, it also provides dozens of diners with an option for a less-expensive night out.

“It is held in kind of a classroom (but) we really try to recreate the dining room atmosphere,” says MSVU lab instructor Deanna Struthers, adding there is music, table linens and adjusted lighting. “It is a two-hour service, and it’s exactly like going out to dine in a restaurant. You are greeted at the door, and we go through all the steps of service.”

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With a set menu and the mains all under $12, Struthers says the temporary restaurant does offer a more affordable dining option as the high cost of living sees fewer people taking advantage of the restaurant experience.

According to a recent study by Restaurants Canada, three in four Canadians are dining out less often, due partly to rising food costs.

Struthers says Vincent’s is an excellent option for people pinching their pennies, but with the teaching restaurant only open on certain dates until March 27, people are encouraged to make reservations.

“I just posted that we were open for business this term and the last two days I spent time making reservations,” she says. “So we are filling up fast.”