The Pines Café, operated by Worcester Technical High School’s Culinary and Pastry Arts program, is a unique teaching café located at the TidalHealth Ocean Pines Campus. The initiative provides students with hands-on experience in food service, preparation, and business management, while offering high-quality meals to the public.

Purpose and Educational Focus

The café serves as a practical extension of the culinary program, allowing students to learn skills such as:

• Knife techniques, cooking methods, and food safety practices.
• Menu planning, customer service, and inventory management.
• Culinary math, basic bookkeeping, and adaptability in a professional environment.

The program aligns with Worcester County’s efforts to prepare students for careers in hospitality and culinary services, with participants also earning industry-recognized certifications.

Menu and Offerings

The menu, curated by Chef Phil Cropper and the students, includes:

• Breakfast items like Southwest wraps and croissant sandwiches.
• Lunch options such as grilled paninis and Mediterranean salads.
• Baked goods, including jumbo muffins, tarts, and scones.

Items are available for dine-in, takeout, or pre-order through their online system, making it convenient for both casual diners and working professionals in the area.

Community and Economic Impact

The café bridges the gap between education and community engagement by:

• Reinforcing the local workforce with skilled graduates.
• Providing a social hub and quality meals for the Ocean Pines area.
• Supporting the culinary program through café profits, reinvesting in education and resources.

The Pines Café exemplifies a win-win model: equipping students with real-world skills while serving the community with delicious, freshly prepared meals. It’s open weekdays, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., and continues to be a testament to the potential of experiential learning in education. For more details, visit their official site or stop by the café to experience it firsthand.