A line of students spanned from the doors of the loft to the stairway as they eagerly awaited the reopening of the Tiger’s Loft Bistro Wednesday, Oct. 1.
The Loft has re-opened for the 2024-25 school year, resuming its typical lunch hours during second and third lunch on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, according to culinary teacher Christopher DeRoacher.
“I am so excited for the loft to reopen,” said junior Clara Binne. “It’s accessible for all students, and the food is actually good. I love their scones especially,” she added.
The Loft’s breakfast service is run by paid Culinary Major 2 and 3 employees, open from 8 a.m. to the end of a-block Wednesday through Friday. According to DeRoacher, the Loft will no longer be open Tuesday mornings.
DeRoacher became the Loft’s head culinary teacher this year after the former head, Lisa McKinney, retired at the end of last year.
“I have big shoes to fill. There are expectations, and hopefully, I’m able to meet those expectations, but I’m excited to be here and to open the Loft, and watch the students run the operation,” said DeRoacher. “Hopefully, by mid-October, we’ll be rocking and rolling,” he added.
According to DeRoacher, culinary students have been prepping for the opening for weeks, completing prerequisite safety training and food safety training.
“I am excited to watch the community reunite over something they love,” said culinary student Bryce Campbell.
According to junior Gianna Ward, many students love the restaurant for its high quality and affordable breakfast and lunch options.
“It’s great for second and third-lunch kids because now, they do not have to walk all the way into Newtonville if they want better food,” said sophomore Jinn Quinn.