The Restaurants at the Top of the CRUC have undergone some major changes that will be of interest to members of the University’s faculty and staff.
Rebranding of the Restaurants. Except for Simple Servings, all the names have changed, and new, more modern, signs identify each location.
International Cuisine is Highlighted. The new Showcase restaurant (formerly Serrano’s) will now feature a variety of global cuisines, which will include Hispanic as well as Chinese, Japanese, Indian, and many other ethnic foods.
“Simple Zone” is new and features packaged gluten-free and vegan breads, bagels, desserts, and other items that are available for self-service from open to close each day. Simple Zone is located at the back side of the new Mix Salad Bar, which has also been enhanced to include more meat proteins, as well as more vegetarian salads and salad dressings.
New Faculty and Staff Price: As part of regularly scheduled price increases, the cost for any meal at the Top of the CRUC for members of the faculty and staff will go up to $7 on February 1st.
Eagle’s Nest Change/Vocelli Pizza: The owner of Vocelli Pizza, who was a valued partner with University Dining for over 15 years, decided it was time to retire, and so Vocelli Pizza closed over the winter break. We do have a new Italian restaurant coming on board, and more details about that concept and menu will be coming soon. If all goes well, it will open in early February.
Major Dining Events for Spring: The calendar of special events is posted on the dining website every month, but here’s a snapshot of some of the more notable celebrations. All events take place at the Top of the CRUC.
Black History Month Events: Several events will be held in February, each highlighting a different cuisine representing various Black cultures. Menus were planned in partnership with the Black Student Association, the African Student Union, the NAACP, and the JFMC. The kick-off event is a Southern Soul Food lunch on Thursday, February 1st, from 11am to 2pm. That’s followed by a Caribbean Dinner on February 8th, a Mardi Gras Creole Lunch on February 13th, and an African Dinner on February 22nd.
Lunar New Year Celebration Week: February 5-9. Popular Asian dishes will be served every day, plus Dragon Dance performances will take place at lunch on February 9th.
Health & Wellness Fair: Providers of goods and services that promote physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual wellness will be on hand with demonstrations, free samples, and lots of information. The Fair will take place on April 3rd in the Chandler Ballroom between 11 am and 3pm. Participation as an exhibitor or vendor is open to anyone, including UMW departments and student groups. Spaces are free. For more information, contact Rose Benedict at rbenedic@UMW.edu.
Farmer’s Market & Craft Fair. This outdoor event will be held on Campus Walk from Lee Hall to Monroe Hall on April 23rd between 11:30 am and 3pm. Local farmers, crafters, artisans, bakers, and other small businesses are invited to participate at no charge. For details contact Rose Benedict at rbenedic@umw.edu.