Diners in Goldstein, Kimmel and Schine food courts will notice a big change in both look and taste this summer. In response to feedback from students, Syracuse University Food Services is introducing The Tomato Wheel, an artisan pizza shop serving handmade flatbreads, pizza wheels and pizza by the slice.
Diners can expect to see menu options like pesto with roasted veggies or Sriracha chicken pizza, Buffalo wing twists, and spinach and artichoke or Philly cheese steak wheels. The Tomato Wheel will also offer made-to-order mini pizzas, including gluten-free and vegan options.
With a modern look and an authentic, home-cooked flair, The Tomato Wheel’s goal is to satisfy the more refined palette of today’s food lovers. Replacing the Sbarro pizza chain, The Tomato Wheel will provide Food Services with flexibility, allowing them to implement changes, try new menu items and respond instantly to feedback.
Sue Bracy, director of retail and catering operations for Food Services, is excited about the change. “Students want to see fresh-made foods, unique recipes and variety,” says Bracy. “We had a very positive longtime partnership with Sbarro, but our students wanted something different. With the opening of our own eatery, we are able to tailor the menu to our specific customers here at Syracuse University.”
Diners will even get to see the action front and center, with a new pizza prep table incorporated into the service line. Looking to increase transparency and provide opportunities for a relationship between the diner and the server, The Tomato Wheel’s menu is designed to suit the taste buds of the students, faculty and staff. Feedback is encouraged, either by face-to-face conversation with a server or manager or by emailing mealtalk@syr.edu.
Renovations at the food courts will take place this summer. The Tomato Wheel has opened at the Schine Food Court, with the locations at Goldstein and Kimmel to be completed by the end of August. A grand opening will take place after students return in the fall.
