Each sandwich at South’s panini line is a delicious canvas, inviting students to create their own culinary masterpiece. A vibrant array of fresh ingredients—crisp vegetables, savory meats, and rich cheeses—await, transforming lunchtime into a flavorful adventure.
In the fall of 2020, South’s Quest Food Management team launched a panini line that quickly gained traction with students. Now located in the freshman cafeteria, this streamlined lunch station combined a deli and a panini bar, created by merging two previously separate stations, Tim Almy, Quest Foods District Manager, said. The new line allowed for a wider variety of made-to-order choices, catering to student preferences, and addressing the limitations of each individual station, Almy said.
“The paninis are popular with students because it is a customized option for lunch,” Almy explained. “Students can choose exactly what they want and we make it fresh right in front of them.”
Sophomore Abby Gange, whose panini order includes mozzarella and spicy chicken, catches up with friends while she waits in line.
“A lot of people like standing in line and talking to their friends because it’s a good way to start their lunch,” Gange said.
Additionally, time in the panini line allows students to expand their palate, and try new sandwich combinations they may get to know and love, Gange said.
“I don’t normally like spicy food, but I like spicy chicken because it’s really good with [the mozzarella],” Gange said.
For many students, the panini line is a constant source of satisfaction, providing not only friendship, but a consistent, made-to-order meal every time. Panini line regular junior AJ Tserendolgor, values the reliability, especially when she’s craving something quick and filling.
“The panini line is always there, and nothing changes about what they offer,” Tserendolgor said. “It’s consistent.”
For many students, a satisfying meal often comes down to something simple and comforting. And some panini regulars, like Gange, see the sandwiches as a bright spot in the middle of her school day.
“It’s the highlight of my week when I get a panini,” Abby Gange said. “It makes me so happy, I look forward to it all day.”
