Silversword Café features new look, updated menu
Freshmen Araceli Kee and Ro Razavi gave their thumbs-up of approval. Alumni Elijah Abramo ’21 misses the old booths, but understands the logic and appeal of high-tops. And as students, staff members and faculty filed into the renovated Silversword Café this past Monday, many commented about the modern décor, vibrant color pallete and contemporary furnishings.
“It’s fancier,” remarked Kee, while inspecting the new high-top tables and sleek stools. Razavi countered, saying that he thought it was more modern and also cooler. Prompted two years ago by a flood in the café, renovations for the space got underway in earnest during the 2022 summer. According to Allison Jerome, Chaminade Vice President for Student Affairs & Dean of Students, the work was supposed to be completed by Fall 2022, but city permitting delays set back the re-opening date.
“They had to dig a new trench, which caused more permitting delays” Jerome noted. “In the end, here we are, and it’s finally done.”
The menu, too, has been tweaked by Aramark executive chef Joshua Bonds, who arrived on island Jan.4 to help establish consistency and culinary protocols. In addition to select pizzas, a salad bar, cupcakes, a deli menu and hot entrees, the Café also features an Action Bar during dinner service.
“The menu is designed to feature the island’s flavors and local recipes,” explained Bonds, who helps Aramark clients across the nation with their dining programs. “And I can tell you with certainty that no other campus that Aramark services will have Portuguese sausage, shoyu chicken or hapa rice as part of its menu. These recipes are definitely unique to Hawai‘i.”