Graphic by Maya Uribe
By Melisa Rodriguez and Miggy Aguilar
Exciting changes are underway at the Island’s Caf (now named Island’s Kitchen!) bringing more than just food to the table. With new technological developments, menu diversity and student engagement Island’s Kitchen is transforming into a dynamic place that offers more than just a meal. We had the opportunity to speak with CI Dining Services Marketing Manager Suzanne Kim about these updates and her insights into the innovative plans and the collaborative efforts behind them.
One of the most anticipated additions to the Island’s Kitchen is introducing a flexible mobile virtual kitchen and a new ice cream machine that is currently in development. This service will allow students to order their meals directly from their phones making it easier than ever to grab a bite between classes or during a study break as the design is meant to allow students to put in their orders and pick them up without the usual wait.
Island’s Kitchen is evolving into a space for community and creativity. Kim and her team are implementing a series of activities and events designed to engage students that include friendship bracelet making, painting sessions and even board games placed around the area for engagement.
The next topic was understanding the process of running a kitchen as Kim described it as a coordinating effort because the team needs everyone involved to succeed. Kim described the analogy as connecting the kitchen as a play, with the kitchen staff working behind the scenes like a production team and marketing serving as the playbill presenting what is to come and what is currently being offered. Kim believes that this analogy highlights the intricate process of running a successful dining service where the contribution of every team member is important.
Safety is a top priority for Kim and her team because the process of checking food safety includes monitoring the quality, freshness and potential allergies of every dish. “Keeping students safe is our priority,” said Kim, underscoring the commitment to providing a welcoming and secure environment. The team supports one another and communication is key. For example if the dishwashers aren’t available it can disrupt the entire routine because they are an essential part of the operation.
Student feedback plays a significant role in shaping the future of Island’s Kitchen. As campus dining continues to evolve it is clear that the focus remains on enhancing the student experience not just through new features and menu options but also by fostering a sense of community and engagement. Be sure to keep an eye out for the latest updates and join in on the fun at the Island’s Kitchen this semester!
