10 Tips for Upgrading School Cafeterias

10 Tactical Tips

for Upgrading Your School Cafeteria

(That You Can Do Today & at Low Cost)

Studies show when the cafeteria environment is pleasant, students eat more of their lunch, do better in their academic work, and have fewer behavioral problems.

The taste of food is very important but there must also be a warm, festive ambiance, a simple décor that gives the feeling of freshness, crispness and cleanliness to complete the whole customer service experience.

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Ambiance

To make food look its most appealing, lighting should be as close to daylight as possible so that all the food colors are sharp. LED overhead lighting is a must, and consider pendant lights when possible.

Lighting

Communication is important. Clearly display the entrances to lines and what's being served. Print signs rather than handwriting them for a more professional look, and use lettering that can be easily changed.

Signage

Space

Overcrowding can create a sense of uncertainty. The opposite is also true. Use space to accentuate areas of the serving line, and save counter space to increase student engagement. When you're limited horizontally. Go vertical!

Plating

How you plate is just as important as what you plate. To emphasize healthier foods, put vegetables at the center of the plate. Use consistent tray colors. Add a special, extra touch. Suprise and delight your students. And remember, there's always a reason to celebrate.

Utensils

Plastic forks and spoons not only look bad, they're also more expensive. By switching to metal, school cafeterias can save hundreds of dollars each year.

Beverages

Though sometimes more expensive but worth the investment, acrylic beverage dispensers last long and won't stain when compared to plastic. Also consider fruit-infused water!

Merchandising

Think about where and how you arrange your food displays. The neater and more organized they are, the easier it's going to be for your students to quickly find the foods and beverages that most interest them.

Serving Lines

Adding warmth and color can transform your serving line into an inviting display, and it doesn't take a lot. Print you own décor, use paint, or get creative with scrap paper. Do anything to make your space feel less institutionalized. It doesn't take a lot of effort.

Service

Greet students with a smile. Try to use their names. Treat everyone with respect and courtesy. Create a fun, interactive environment. Show a positive attitude driven by care, concern, and helpfulness. Customer service is what you do and how you do it. Take pride in what you do every day!

SEE MORE cafeteria upgrades and transformations.

Get more tips and ideas from Lakeside and Multiteria.

Developed in partnership with:

Shenae Rowe, RD Food & Nutrition Director Warrick County School Corporation