Campus Dining update: New locations, more choices & what’s coming next
We’re excited to share the latest updates on campus dining and vending options as
we continue expanding and improving food access across our campus.
The Pickle Jar & Freshens are now offficially open!
After a successful soft launch and continued staff training, The Pickle Jar and Freshens are now fully open and ready to serve. Freshens features a variety of fresh, healthy options, including smoothies, rice bowls, acai bowls, salads, sandwiches and wraps. The Pickle Jar brings back familiar favorites such as grilled chicken sandwiches, burgers, quesadillas and more.
Expanded vending in the Artist Village (AV)
The Artist Village Hive has been upgraded with new vending coolers offering a broader selection of food and snacks. Students can now find fresh salads, sandwiches, ice cream and many favorites from previous years.
Just Baked Machine is coming soon to Design & Production
A Just Baked machine will soon be installed in the Pearce Building lobby, making it easily accessible for D&P students working late hours. The machine will be available 24/7 and stocked with a rotating mix of healthy and comfort hot food options. It will accept credit cards, Pickle Dollars and Bonus Bucks.
The Hive: More variety & UNCSA merchandise
The Commons Hive continues to evolve, now offering an expanded variety of snacks and beverages, along with lower-cost options and meal exchange items for students. Additionally, UNCSA-branded merchandise is back with more options now available for purchase.
Studio Brew adds hot sandwiches
Studio Brew continues to participate in the meal exchange program and now includes hot sandwiches among its growing variety of options.
The Everyday App
We’re currently launching The Everyday App — a new tool designed to enhance the campus dining experience. The app provides up-to-date dining hall menus and allows users to place pickup orders at Freshens and the Pickle Jar. Additional dining locations will be added soon as we continue to expand the app’s features.
Dining Hall updates & complimentary meals
Full-time employees will continue to receive one complimentary meal per week from Sodexo in the Hector Manuel Lopez Jr. Dining Hall. We invite you to stop by, meet our new Executive Chef, Steven Johnson, and check out the exciting new changes and menu offerings in the dining hall.
We appreciate your support and patience as we roll out these exciting changes. Your feedback continues to guide us, and we’re committed to making dining on campus more accessible, enjoyable, and aligned with student needs. Stay tuned for more updates — and enjoy the new dining options across campus!
Contact: RaSheeda Lloydns in new t
Aug. 14, 2025