As many of us in the Piedmont know, Tuscarora Mill (aka Tuskie’s) is a wonderful fine dining restaurant, casual cafe, and bakery located in Loudoun County.  They use local products and enjoy their connection with the local farmers and growers in the region.  But there’s another exciting project going on at Tuskie’s that many aren’t aware of. 

Monroe Tech Intern, Hayley Tew, is enjoying the learning experience and working with the kitchen crew at Tuskie’s.  Hayley has always had a passion for cooking and thought of becoming a chef at a fairly  young age.  Hayley is enrolled in the Culinary Arts Program at Monroe Tech, taught by Joy Anderson.  “It is a unique opportunity to work in a fine dining restaurant and be able to learn so many different things” says Hayley. 

Hayley gets the opportunity to do pre work, such as cutting and dicing, working on the pantry line, sauteing foods and much more in the Tuskie’s kitchen.  Even Executive Chef Patrick Dinh see’s her potential — “She is a quick learner and we are happy to have her here as an intern.  It gives her a close look at the inside of a fine dining restaurant, and an opportunity to learn many of the skills she will need in any restaurant, and it provides us with students who are motivated to learn and do well.” says Dinh.      

It’s clear to us, at the Piedmont Virginian, that Hayley is happy to be working close with Tuskie’s fantastic chefs.  Hayley enjoys the possibilties of recipes and bringing all of the ingredients together, and seeing how people react to them.  She’s not yet decided which aspect of the culinary arts she will focus on, but she’s enjoying all of the new knowledge she’s receiving. 

Keep smiling Hayley — we know you’ll do well, no matter what path you decide to take!  You have great teachers at Tuskies, and we look forward to enjoying the delicious meals you’ve prepared.