After receiving feedback from University of Notre Dame students and others on campus, Student Government, Campus Dining and Student Activities have selected Star Ginger Asian Grill and Noodle Bar, Modern Market and a coffeehouse featuring Intelligentsia coffee as the inaugural dining options for the new Duncan Student Center.
Located on the west side of Notre Dame Stadium, Duncan Student Center will open in January 2018.
“I’m glad that students have had the opportunity to give feedback and truly have their voices heard in the welcoming of the three new dining venues,” Becca Blais, student body vice president, said. “I am confident that student opinions were not only taken into consideration, but were the driving force behind these venues being chosen. All three will be excellent additions to the new student center.”
Star Ginger Asian Grill and Noodle Bar is the creation of Chef Mai Pham and offers simple dishes inspired by Asian street food and flavors from Thailand, Vietnam and Singapore. Lunchtime offerings include noodle soups, salads, salad rolls, wok-fried rice noodles and toasted Vietnamese sandwiches. At dinner, guests can enjoy specialties like Thai curries, stir-fries, grilled meats and fish and vegetarian options.
Created by two Notre Dame graduates, Modern Market’s mission is “To serve amazing, healthy food to as many people as possible.” Dishes are made from scratch using whole, simple ingredients and are able to satisfy any dietary requirement, from gluten-free to vegan. Menu offerings include salads, soups, sandwiches, homestyle plates, pizzas and breakfast served all day.
The coffeehouse will serve fresh-roasted Intelligentsia coffees, as well as teas, Freshens smoothies and crepes, a selection of pastries and gelato created by Notre Dame chefs. The design and atmosphere of the coffeehouse will be conducive to studying or socializing.
“Gathering with food is often a central element in friendship and community building,” said Ron Grisoli, interim director of Student Activities Facilities. “We are excited about these new dining options in the Duncan Student Center. This was a collaborative effort of Student Activities Facilities, Campus Dining and Student Government, with valuable input from the key customers – students. We’re eager to see the new student center become a lively gathering place with these new food options.”
“We’re thrilled to bring these new concepts to campus,” said Chris Abayasinghe, senior director of Campus Dining. “They’re a wonderful complement to our existing dining options and further enhance the student experience. We’re grateful for the invaluable feedback offered by our students and campus partners during the selection process.”
In addition to the dining venues, Duncan Student Center will house a 500-seat ballroom, the Smith Family Sports Recreation Center, Career Services, meeting rooms and undergraduate and graduate student lounges.