Plate the Moment: Your Guide to Dining Like a Luxe Lite

As summer winds down and the new school year begins, our team at Campus Dining by Thompson Hospitality wants to help make your transition as smooth as possible. The first few weeks on campus can feel overwhelming, like you're out of your element, searching for your rhythm and trying to fit in. Learning to navigate your dining program sets the tone for energizing your long class and study days, exploring new flavors, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. 

Regardless of the size of your school, walking into the dining hall for the first time can be a bit intimidating, figuring out what’s on the menu, finding new friends, and figuring out what to taste first. Here is your guide to help you navigate dining like a pro:

Know Your Meal Plan

Each school offers various meal plan options to align with your needs for the year. The application process can be strenuous, and as you get started on campus, you may need to revisit your meal plan and understand what you have to work with. You can find a comprehensive breakdow

n of your meal plan on your dining website to see what is available. With a clearer understanding, each day can be an easy dining experience. 

Know Your Dining Hours 

To help you keep up with the busyness of the day, fueling your body is an important part of the equation. Not eating throughout the day or missing meals can cause your blood sugar to drop, slow your metabolism, and affect your ability to focus. To avoid missing the dining hall and your favorite retail locations, note their hours of operation, visit your dining website, and bookmark them on your devices for reference throughout the day. 

Know Your Meal Options

Once you have the dining hours down, it is time to understand your meal options. City Market Eatery offers a wide range of food stations, including Turntable, our homestyle fusion cuisine that feels comforting, and ALT Vegan Kitchen, part of our inclusive dining program, to name a few. 

At some schools, we have a wide variety of our own retail spots for guests to choose from: tasty and creative Burgers at BRB; energizing smoothies at Gogo Fresh; Philly-inspired cheesesteaks at Jawn Voyage; milkshakes and waffle sandwiches at Milked; and much more. Knowing our options helps us plan our day thoughtfully and purposefully. 

Know Your Flexibility Options

Within Campus Dining, we've designed an inclusive dining experience to help everyone feel comfortable and confident. Our Food Inclusivity Program works with the culinary team to intentionally include menu options that meet a range of dietary needs. Additionally, allergen icons are displayed at each dining hall station and retail location to help guests choose items that suit their diets. These thoughtful improvements aim to provide guests with a complete experience, with a focus on their needs. 

As you settle into your new routine, remember that dining is the experience you create, and Campus Dining by Thompson Hospitality is here to ensure it's luxurious in every way. Take your time and try something new. We’re excited to be with you every step of the way.