Anyone who has ever eaten at the cafeteria of Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center knows they have great food, from the always popular chili to taco bars to ever-changing entrees and scotcheroos. Yet next time you return, you’re in for an experience at Café 1325.
Some of the offerings will include unique options, such as the Heritage Inspiration Station, which will feature a different theme every week of the year inspired by various cultures from around the world, such as Asian foods, Lakota foods and German foods.
A sushi station will feature fresh sushi every day prepared by a dedicated sushi chef, and classic favorites like pizza and sandwiches will also be available every day. The popular salad bar will offer a special salad each week, such as poke bowls.
Get more information about cafes on the Avera McKennan campus.
McKennan Cafe Features Favorite Comfort Foods and Cultural Dishes
The Heritage Inspiration Station developed out of a series of conversations between Julie Ward, Vice President of Administrative Services, and Amanda Viau Hopkins, Food Service Director. The diverse food service staff at Avera McKennan will contribute to the menu, offering suggestions from some of their favorite dishes connected to their culture.
This includes Midwestern fare like Tater Tot Hot Dish plus perhaps more unfamiliar but beloved dishes like Cevapi, a traditional southeastern European homemade grilled sausage, and Khichdi, the unofficial national dish of India made of rice and lentils. “Our Heritage Station is a wonderful opportunity to serve dishes inspired by so many regions of the world and expose staff and visitors to something new,” said Cafeteria Manager Tim Erickson.
Not only will suggestions come internally from the Food Service Department, but also from visitors and staff in other departments. “We have created a QR code to engage our guests, and encourage them to share their recipes and own traditional or fun meals that their families enjoy,” says Viau Hopkins. Each dish will feature a write-up on what inspired it or who the recipe comes from.
The Heritage Inspiration Station can include desserts like Cook Sheri Baum’s famous scotcheroos or even inspirations from old family recipes. “Food brings people together, and we hope the Heritage Inspiration Station will do just that,” Viau Hopkins said.
Inspire Your Own Menu
