Spring Break
Ram's Den offers new sandwich options, Asian food
Noelle Myers
Issue date: 9/19/08 Section: News
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When the new Hope Commons first opened up in last fall, students seemed excited for a new atmosphere and a variety of different foods.
"Students want to go to someplace new," said Ram's Den Associate Administrator of Retail Operations, Jo-Anne Stephens.
Stephens said she fully believes the decrease in customers is because of Hope being a new attraction on campus.
Stephens explained that service was very busy two years ago, but has decreased since last spring. At that time, the lines at the Ram's Den sometimes went all the way to its entrance.
Stephens said she is confident about business this year however, and she believes the new varieties in food could possibly bring those lines back.
Some students are excited about the new varieties of food available at the Ram's Den this year. The improved salad bar has many more items and the variety in pasta salads change daily.
The more popular choice for a meal is at the deli. Many students find themselves grabbing a quick wrap or sandwich in between classes.
The Ram's Den became more detailed in its deli choices, adding such selection as parma ham for $4.50 and Toscana Carbonara for $5.65.
"Definitely more options at the Ram's Den. I could never get this chicken Casear wrap at Hope," said sophomore Angelica Eipert. She also described the atmosphere as more inviting.
Her friend, sophomore Lauren Testoni, said some students feel the chaotic atmosphere and long lines at Hope are less inviting than the peaceful environment the Ram's Den offers. Testoni said the computerized system is incredibly easy.
She said there isn't the hassle of reciting what you would like to the server on your sandwich. Instead, you just push a few buttons for your ingredients.
Many students bring their studying materials and multi-task during eating hours.
Another popular option at the Ram's Den besides the deli is the choice of Asian foods. These types of foods are not found at Hope and Butterfield, though Hope does offer a stir-fry booth.
The promotion of the various kinds of Asian cuisine occurred last year, when Stephens and her staff decided to have a student sampling.
They handed out approximately 400 samples, which many of the students enjoyed. These results directly affected new foods appearing on the Asian cuisine menu. Some students are completely satisfied with the new additions at the Ram's Den, but others are still concerned about the prices and the quality of the food.
