Healthy Options, Robust Variety in Briarcliff Cafeterias

Sushi, a salad bar, build-your-own ramen noodle dishes, homemade pizza and a full Boars Head deli are just a few of the new offerings in the high school, middle school and elementary school cafeterias this year.

The district has opted out of the state lunch program and is now able to offer additional lunch options and à la carte selections in its revamped cafeterias, operated by Whitsons Culinary Group.

“There’s higher nutritional value and more variety,” said Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Operations Stuart P.G. Mattey. “We also spruced up the serving areas and the signage is more appealing.”

Whitsons is offering as much locally sourced food as possible, and is careful to have numerous fresh fruit and vegetable selections available daily. There are also more whole grains and higher-quality meat offered in the cafeterias. And you won’t see any more corn syrup.

Karla Grimaldi, the district’s new food services director, said she and her staff are also working hard to make the cafeterias inviting and friendly places for students to unwind during the day. Students across the district are responding overwhelmingly positively to the changes.

“The food doesn’t taste artificial, it tastes real,” said BHS senior Elena Vander Els.

“I think the lunches have become a lot better,” middle school seventh-grader Jake Wexler said. “Now, you have a good variety.”

To view a video about the new food services and to see daily menus, visit www.briarcliffschools.org.

Photo Caption: Todd Elementary School fifth-grader Luella waits for her spaghetti with meatballs and broccoli to be served.

Article and Photo courtesy of the Briarcliff school district.