By Alexandra Perez
August 19, 2026
Students can look forward to an exciting refresh of dining across campus this fall, with new concepts launching in both retail and residential locations. From innovative restaurant partnerships to interactive food stations and fresh dining experiences, these additions are designed to bring more variety, convenience, and flavor to campus life
“The launch of Bearcat Dining marks an exciting new chapter for campus dining at Binghamton University,” said Jeff Stone, district manager of Bearcat Dining with Chartwells Higher Education. “We’ve spent months listening, planning, and preparing for this transition, and we’re eager for students to experience the new dining options, expanded flexibility, and enhanced services available across campus this fall.”
Whether grabbing a quick meal between classes, enjoying dinner in the residence halls, or finding their new favorite late-night bite, students have more opportunities to explore new cuisines, customize their meals, and discover exciting dining destinations right on campus
New faces and returning favorites at retail dining locations
Bearcat Dining is opening some new concepts at the MarketPlace, located in The Union. B3: Breakfast, Burgers and Bites offers comfort food favorites like breakfast sandwiches and burgers. Leaf & Loaf is a build-your-own salad bar and deli featuring Boar’s Head meats and cheeses. Six new partner vendors include The One Sushi for fresh grab-and-go rolls; Fire & Rice, an Asian-fusion concept; local pizza from Enzo’s Pizza Co.; halal options from Jamal’s Chicken and Halal Shack; and kosher dining at District Pickle. Chick-n-Bap, Shake Smart, and Royal Indian are returning to serve up student favorites.
Two new food trucks are making the rounds on campus this semester. The Daily Sip serves Starbucks drinks and bakery items, while Bearcat on the Prowl offers savory Philly-style cheesesteak sandwiches, indulgent fried Oreos, and more
The ITC Café, located at the Innovative Technologies Complex, offers freshly brewed coffee, espresso drinks and quick grab-and-go options. At the Health Sciences campus, Bagels & Bowls is a one-stop shop for breakfast or lunch, serving hot, freshly baked bagels, We Proudly Serve Starbucks beverages, acai bowls and blended smoothies. Bearcat Express is available at the University Downtown Center and the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. A convenient campus c-store–style stop, it offers grab-and-go snacks, beverages, sandwiches, pizza, and everyday essentials for students on the move.
What’s new in residential dining and meal plans
The previous residential dining membership fee has been removed, meaning every Dining Dollar purchased is available to spend on food at residential and retail dining locations across campus. As a result, labor and operating costs that were previously covered by the membership fee are now reflected more directly in pricing, offering transparency
A few familiar stations, like the grill, salad bar, deli, and Bearcat Bakery return to all four dining halls, but some new station concepts are also featured, including pizza, noodles, and Latin, Italian, Southeast Asian and other globally inspired dishes. Hinman, C4, and Appalachian Dining Halls will have Delicious Without stations dedicated to menu items prepared without the nine major allergens (milk, egg, wheat, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, sesame) and gluten. And students can enjoy a late-night bite at Bing After Dark at Appalachian or C4 Dining Hall from 9 p.m.–1 a.m. any day of the week.
The Bearcat Dining team is available to assist students with questions about meal plans, Dining Dollars, dietary accommodations, nutrition and allergens. Visit theBearcat Dining websiteor stop by any dining location to ask questions or offer feedback
Posted in:
Campus News
