Scents of hot chocolate, scones, and breakfast sandwiches wafted under the door to the Tiger’s Loft Bistro Wednesday, Oct. 1, as students lined up eagerly outside for the bistro’s long-awaited reopening. After a half term of preparation by culinary majors, the Loft has officially opened its doors for the 2025–26 school year.
This year’s reopening brings exciting changes, including a more inclusive menu with gluten-free and vegan options. “We are trying out new gluten-free and vegan options to see how they work,” said culinary teacher Lisa Marzilli. Even in the first week, a vegan lentil soup was featured on the menu.
Expanding the menu is part of an ongoing effort to make the Loft more welcoming to all students, Marzilli explained. “The Loft is the most popular spot on campus,” she said, noting that the flow of customers never stops once doors open.
Students say the Loft’s popularity is easy to understand. “The food is really good and cheap, so I always like to go there for lunch—except sometimes it can get a little busy,” said junior Stella Haueisen.
Culinary Major IIs and IIIs manage the Loft each morning and assist regular culinary students during lunch hours. “Everyone likes the Loft, so opening was for sure on everyone’s mind, clearly,” said junior Anna Lew, a former culinary student.
The Loft is open every morning from 8:15 to 11 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and from 8 to 10:15 a.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays. It also serves students during second and third lunch periods, Tuesday through Friday.
