The New Castle Career Center's (NCCC) Culinary and Graphic Arts programs recently presented the 2025 "Restaurant Wars" in the New Castle High School cafeteria. Restaurant Wars offers a hands-on simulation for students to conceptualize, brand, and launch a restaurant.
This year, eight teams faced off for top awards. The students complete the entire process independently, with minimal instructor involvement, allowing them to experience collaboration with clients and other creatives as they would in a professional setting. This approach teaches essential skills such as cooperation, organization, and communication.
Each team was given a specific region in the United States to explore. Culinary and Graphic Arts students collaborated to develop a restaurant concept. The NCCC Culinary and Graphic Design programs include juniors and seniors from eight local high schools. Together, the students crafted the restaurant's overall concept and style, designing display tables to reflect their vision. Culinary students focused on food research, menu development, and preparing appetizers, while Graphic Design students handled mood boards, brand creation, and bringing the concepts to life through visual designs and printed materials.
“We are so proud of our students and their professionalism during this event,” commented Jessika Feltz, Graphic Design Instructor. “They work very hard in the weeks leading up to the event, and it’s amazing to see the big smiles on their faces when their hard work comes together and they can show it to the community and their families.”
Meet the eight teams that participated in Restaurant Wars:
Team Grey - The Tex-Mex region served street corn and received the People’s Choice Award, determined by attendee votes. Malayla Trennepohl, Cora Bales, Kendall Bever, Lainey Murphy, Zak McDonald, Paige Reeves, and Logan Barnard are members.
Team Pink - The Low Country region presented crab dip, earning the Director’s Choice Award for notable hard work, dedication, and teamwork. Members consist of Abby Eley, Alli Grant, Allison Perdew, Ann Bean, Amaya Cridge, Olivia Aurs, and Dylan Edwards.
Team Red - The Southwest region showcased Radioactive Mac & Cheese, winning the Best Menu Award, which considers taste, presentation, and overall theme. Members include Jon Rosas, John McKee, Eli Taylor, Kingston Smith, Connor Guyer, Damiean McClain, Joey Dickerson, and Rae Loveless.
Team Black - Representing the California region, this team served Tropical Bliss and Berry Blast Smoothies, securing the Best Branding Award, focused on overall branding and table appearance. Members include Sophie Williams, Addison Hart, Landon Hicks, Jasmine Windisch, Carlie Cushing, Ava Gillock, and Cameron Frost.