Lakeridge students in the Level 3 Culinary and Entrepreneurship class hosted the annual Food Cart Frenzy, a student-run event that turned the school cafeteria into a packed food market filled with long lines, sold out menus and nonstop activity on May 14.
The college-level class spent the entire semester building their own food-related businesses, planning budgets, finding sponsorships from local restaurants and preparing to open to the public for one night only. This year’s event featured nine different food carts run by 36 students serving foods such as crepes, smash burgers, pho, chicken fried rice, pretzel bites and milkshakes.
The event also served as a fundraiser, with all proceeds going directly back into the culinary program. According to culinary teacher Jennifer Jillions, this year’s turnout exceeded expectations.
“We doubled our profits. I’m so proud of my kids. Thank you to everyone who showed up this year,” said Jillions.
Many students described the event as stressful but rewarding because of the large crowds and constant rush of orders. Henry Lindekugel, who worked at the chicken fried rice cart and has participated in the Food Cart Frenzy for two years, said the experience pushed students to work under pressure.
“Very fun, challenging but rewarding,” said Lindekugel.
The pretzel bites and milkshake cart quickly became one of the busiest stations of the night. Blake Malozi said the experience was hectic but worth it.
“It was stressful. But it was pretty fun and rewarding,” said Malozi.
Kevin Kelleher, who also worked at the milkshake stand, said the crowds grew rapidly throughout the evening.
“It started off kinda slow but then suddenly lots of people showed up,” said Kelleher. “We always had a chocolate milkshake shortage. I had to chase down a kid across the cafeteria because he forgot his strawberry milkshake.”
Students and visitors alike described the night as exciting and chaotic. Junior Brandon Salem, who attended the event, said the atmosphere reflected how successful the evening had become.
“There were huge lines. Fun with little hints of stress!” said Salem.
