The University of Toledo is rolling out a number of improvements to its on-campus dining experience this fall as part of a new partnership with Chartwells Higher Education.
New to campus will be mobile ordering with contactless pickup, two new food concepts in the Thompson Student Union, and refreshed residential dining options that have a chef-driven focus on fresh, scratch-made dishes that meet a variety of diverse dining needs. Later in the semester, more pickup locations and delivery points will be added across campus.
Chartwells Higher Education is a national leader in contract food service management, hospitality and award-winning guest service, serving more than 300 campuses in the United States. In partnership with UToledo, Chartwells aims to create a premier food service program that emphasizes quality, made-to-order food, menu customization, variety, value, student success and education, and forward-thinking innovations.
As part of the University’s Rocket Restart plan to prepare for a safe return to campus, a number of changes have been implemented for on-campus dining, including the installation of clear barriers at all points of sale, enhanced cleaning procedures and social distancing measures.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the public dining experience. As we return to campus, we’re following all state and local guidelines and taking the necessary precautionary steps. Things are going to look a little different, but it’s imperative we do what we can to keep our community safe,” said Michael Dennis, associate vice president for finance and treasurer. “At the same time, we’re excited to be partnering with Chartwells and bringing new food offerings and services such as contactless pickup to campus. As we sought a new dining partner, we were impressed with their reputation for quality food, innovative technology and commitment to safety.”
Through the BOOST mobile app, students will be able to place orders from many on-campus restaurants and skip the line for easy pickup. The app also features an interactive campus map, menus with nutritional information and integration with Apple HealthKit, in-app messaging, manager information, and a feedback platform. Additionally, a student choice concept will be introduced in the spring where guests are able to vote for adding the dining concept of their choice at the newly renamed Parks Tower Fooderie each semester.
“We are incredibly thrilled to be part of The University of Toledo campus and community. Our program is built to set students up for success, using dining as an engagement and educational tool across campus — whether it is introducing a new cultural dish, educating students on cooking practices and culinary skills through our Teaching Kitchen platform, or creating unique experiences through legacy events,” said Nadeem Zafar, division president of Chartwells Higher Education. “This fall, guests can rest assured that we will continue with this dynamic approach to dining with added safety measures to keep our students and associates safe and healthy.”
New dining options in the Thompson Student Union include Ace Sushi Boba and Bowls, an Asian-fusion concept serving sushi dishes and bubble tea, and Wild Pie, a counter service pizzeria that sells pizza by the inch. Those new locations will replace Magic Wok and Oath Pizza. UToledo’s existing national brands, including Starbucks, Subway, Chick-fil-A and Steak ‘n Shake, will return this fall.
In partnership with Chartwells, the University is looking ahead to renovations for both the Thompson Student Union and Ottawa East Dining Hall and bringing in new national brands and food options to the College of Engineering.
