With the new academic year fast approaching, campus food service venues are preparing to welcome students back to campus with new menu options.
“We received great feedback from students last year on the kinds of things they like and the items they’d like to see added,” says Lindsey Leisinger, food service director for Willamette’s Food Services operation. “In response, we cooked up some exciting new menu concepts and offerings.”
A few items to note:
- Goudy will have a bowls station where Chef Hopeton will create quick, colorful and nutrition-packed bowls.
- A grill station at Goudy will feature burgers ground in house and weekly special variations.
- Goudy’s grab-and-go menu is getting a facelift, gaining many new options while keeping popular classics.
- Kaneko will add spam, chicken or vegetable musubi; halo halo and boba teas; Asian burgers; and bahn mi sandwiches. Fan favorites sushi and katsu will still be offered on select days.
- All food service venues will have more grab-and-go options, including a greater selection at the Montag Store for students on the east side of campus and at Rick’s Cafe for those on the west side.
Check Willamette Cafe Bon Appetit’s website for hours and more information about menu items. Leisinger also notes that community members are welcome to provide feedback and suggestions to her or a member of the Dining Services Team. Or, offer suggestions and feedback on Willamette Cafe Bon Appetit’s website — select “Contact Us.”
Another change this academic year is the transition of the Cat Cavern in the University Center to an event-only venue. In previous years, on- and off-campus groups could only reserve the Cat Cavern for late afternoon and evening events after breakfast and lunch service. Plus, even during peak meal times, the Cat’s dining area was often underutilized. The space will now be available to schedule any time of the day and will offer an enhanced option for events, including those that require catering.
“Based on the expected number of students living on campus holding meal plans, Goudy Commons, Kaneko Cafe, the Montag Store, Rick’s Cafe and the student-run Bistro, are able to meet current demand,” says Jim Bauer, vice president for planning and external affairs.
Dining services staff will continue to monitor traffic flows at all food service venues, as well as the number of students purchasing meal plans, and make adjustments as needed.
“With its ideal location, we look forward to making the Cat available for more community activities, more catered events, and study space when not scheduled,” Bauer says.