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The Culinary Café is a reservation-only learning laboratory featuring various cuisine themes twice a week. Previously the home of former U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison, was renovated Spring 2022 to preserve the home’s history and elegance while adding a state-of-the-art commercial kitchen.

Seating is limited and sells out fast. In an effort to accommodate more guests, patrons may be seated with another party.

Fall 2026 information

• starting 8 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 15.
  • $15, includes a three-course lunch and a drink.
• First lunch of the semester is Tuesday, Sept. 29.
• Tuesdays and Thursdays
  • Doors open 11:30 a.m.
  • Arrive by 12:15 p.m.

Parking

Patrons may park in Commuter Lot 56 at the corner of E. Starr Ave and N. Fredonia St.

If you have parking questions, contact Parking Services at 936.468.7275.

Student-run café serves up the world

Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ’s student-run Culinary Café gives hospitality administration majors an opportunity to advance their food service and entrepreneurial skills in a real-world, white tablecloth setting.

The Culinary Café is a learning laboratory and collaborative educational effort. Under the culinary direction of Chef Todd Barrios and the service direction of Dr. Mary Olle, students plan menus, prepare meals and serve a usually sold-out crowd.

Open twice a week for lunch during the regular school year, the Culinary Café lets students explore globe-spanning cuisine, from Texas country cooking to Mediterranean specialties. The Culinary Café also hosts special events throughout the year for faculty and other guests.

All hospitality administration majors and some minors are required to participate in the Culinary Café. Students enrolled in Advanced Culinary Preparation Lab and Managing the Guest Experience Lab courses will have the opportunity to be the General Manager and Chef of the Day, helping prepare them for management level careers.