New Dining Delights at the University of Minnesota: Are Students Ready for the Change?

The University of Minnesota has revamped its dining scene, debuting exciting new options that aim to cater to diverse student preferences. As of early September, students have been introduced to a vibrant array of flavors and concepts that replace familiar favorites. This shift has sparked curiosity and conversation across campus.

Fresh Faces in Dining: What’s New?

• King’s Hawaiian Grill: A burger and fry haven that has replaced Chick-fil-A in Coffman Union.
• Global Kitchen: A multi-cuisine concept that also takes over the former Chick-fil-A spot, offering a fusion of flavors.
• Tiny Footprint Coffee: A local alternative to Starbucks, focusing on sustainability and unique beverage options.

What Inspired the Change?

Chris Elrod, Senior Director of Marketing and Communications for M Food Co., shared insights into the motivations behind these new dining options. A dining satisfaction survey conducted in Fall 2023 revealed that:

• 29% of students expressed a desire for bubble tea.
• 13% favored Indian cuisine.
• 11% requested Mediterranean options.

In response, the Global Kitchen concept was created to encompass multiple cuisines, aiming to reduce food waste and enhance resource efficiency. Elrod noted, “It’s a way to utilize space, resources, labor, and ingredients in a more efficient and effective way.”

What’s on the Menu?

The Global Kitchen will feature:

• Mediterranean dishes
• Indian-inspired meals
• Comfort foods like mac and cheese

Additionally, both halal and vegan options are available to cater to the dietary needs of all students, according to Executive Chef Chuck Gibbons.

The Unique Offerings of King’s Hawaiian Grill

King’s Hawaiian Grill, a rare gem with only a few locations worldwide, aims to satisfy cravings for classic burgers and fries. Gibbons explained, “We needed a burger and fry place on campus. So we decided to go with a smashburger concept.” The menu includes:

• Traditional smash burgers
• Impossible smash burgers
• Fries with cheese sauce
• Milkshakes in chocolate and vanilla

A Shift Towards Sustainability

With the switch to Tiny Footprint Coffee, the University is embracing a more sustainable model. Elrod highlighted that this local coffee brand is carbon-negative, planting more trees to offset its carbon footprint. This aligns with a growing trend among students who prioritize eco-friendly choices.

Student Reactions: What Are They Saying?

While some students are excited about the new offerings, others express nostalgia for the familiar. Fourth-year student Lydia Liljenquist voiced concerns that the absence of Chick-fil-A may deter foot traffic. “I think a lot of people really enjoyed the fact that there was a Chick-fil-A there,” she said, suggesting that students might prefer the convenience of familiar fast-food options.

Amy Keran, the director of Contract Administration at the University, acknowledged the challenges of keeping up with brand requirements while also meeting student demands. “We’re always looking for new brands to keep things fresh and ensure diverse options,” she stated.

Looking Ahead

As the University of Minnesota continues to evolve its dining options, the focus remains on student satisfaction and dietary diversity. Elrod expressed optimism about the new concepts and the potential for future additions, ensuring that students feel represented in the dining options available on campus.

What do you think?

• Will the new dining options attract students, or will they stick to familiar favorites?
• Do you believe sustainability should be prioritized over convenience in campus dining?
• How do you feel about removing popular chains like Chick-fil-A from campus?
• What other types of cuisine would you like to see offered at the University?
• Is it important for the University to offer more local food options?