Discovering the Culinary Gem: 1856 – Culinary Residence at Auburn University

In the heart of Alabama, the 1856 – Culinary Residence offers a unique dining experience that blends fine dining with educational exploration. Set on the campus of Auburn University, this exceptional restaurant has taken its place in the esteemed MICHELIN Guide, marking a milestone as the first teaching restaurant in the U.S. to earn such recognition.

A Dining Experience Like No Other

Walking into 1856 feels like entering one of the finest dining establishments in the country. Guests are enveloped in an atmosphere accentuated by a stunning double-height wine room and delicate glassware. The tasting menus offered, featuring French-inspired regional dishes, showcase the creativity and passion of the students involved in every aspect of service.

Service here is not just about satisfying hunger; it’s a learning ground where students aged 18 to 22 gain hands-on experience in both the kitchen and the dining area. This innovative approach allows them to apply their culinary skills while receiving guidance from seasoned professionals.

Culinary Mentorship

Joël Antunes, an accomplished French chef, oversees the kitchen as Chef in Residence. His impressive background includes stints at the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, where his restaurant received three MICHELIN Keys, and his acclaimed establishment in London that earned a star before closing. Transitioning to a teaching role has been an interesting challenge for Antunes, who initially found it difficult to adapt to the pace and style of a training kitchen. “At the beginning, it was hard; fine dining demands perfection,” he shares. However, over time, he has developed a refreshing perspective, noting that he now learns from his students just as they learn from him.

Hands-On Learning for Students

The culinary program at Auburn is designed to immerse students in every facet of the dining experience. As sophomores, they begin with à la carte lunch service, gaining essential skills as they advance to full-scale dinner operations by their senior year. This structured progression allows students to engage with every role in the restaurant—from sommelier to bartender to chef—ensuring a well-rounded education.

Antunes emphasizes the importance of foundational skills: “The most crucial part is to teach them the basics of cooking, like preparing vegetables or sauces, before they plate dishes during service.” This hands-on instruction is invaluable, as each student learns the intricacies of fine dining in real-time.

Collaborative Menu Development

One of the most exciting aspects of 1856 is student involvement in menu planning. Each month, the tasting menus undergo a transformation, incorporating seasonal produce from both local purveyors and the university’s rooftop garden. Antunes engages his students three weeks prior to the menu change, encouraging their input and fostering their creativity.

“Sometimes they bring very good ideas,” he remarks, acknowledging the enthusiasm of young culinary minds. However, he also teaches them to refine their creativity, guiding them away from overly experimental combinations that may not work.

Celebrating Local Connections

Alongside its academic ambitions, 1856 has become a destination for diners across Alabama and beyond. The restaurant is particularly proud when students bring their families to share in their culinary achievements. “It’s a big moment for them,” notes Hans van der Reijden, one of the restaurant’s founders. The pride and excitement that students express during these visits highlight the strong community ties and personal investments in their culinary journeys.

A Broader Recognition

In the inaugural selection of the MICHELIN Guide to the American South, 15 Alabama establishments were honored, positioning 1856 among the top culinary spots in the state. The Michelin recognition is not just a badge of honor; it elevates the culinary landscape, drawing attention to the rich and diverse offerings across Alabama, from Birmingham to Mobile.

Whether you’re a local or a traveler passing through Alabama, the 1856 – Culinary Residence represents more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to witness the next generation of culinary talent in action while indulging in exquisite cuisine that celebrates the flavors of the American South.