FoodHawk Review:
It's a restaurant and a classroom. That's right, all the chefs, servers, and host staff at the fine dining restaurant, Ventana, are students in the Associate of Applied Science in Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Arts Program at Texas Culinary Academy. With brisk and friendly service, and a menu rooted in French culinary technique, it is easy to forget that you are witnessing the training of men and women to become leaders in the hospitality industry. Vast windows dominate the decor, and are both warm and inviting for those looking into the dining room and picturesque for those already inside. For  lunch choose from items such as the rich Croque Madame, a French version of a ham and cheese sandwich with a fried egg and velvety Mornay sauce, or feel the comfort from classic Beef Bourguignon. At  dinner, highlights include Tuna Bearnaise with the crisp pomme frites, or the beautiful and exciting Dijon and horseradish crusted salmon with the lush red wine butter sauce and lentils. The wine list  has many excellent yet simple choices which makes it easy for the diner to make a perfect pairing. Plan to try one of the delicious desserts, like the espresso creme brulee with one of the dessert wines to close the curtains to the show. Remember, the best tip you can leave is a word of encouragement to the hard working students.