How a New Twist to the an Old Fashioned Comfort Food Made a Difference
Brian Binggeli
Assistant Operations Manager
Since he joined Highland about five years ago, Assistant Operations Manager Brian Binggeli more has overseen a staff of about 70, monitored kitchen inventory, ordered products from vendors, and managed Highland’s retail food services, which include the Highland Café, the Grand Grounds Coffee House, and the Deli. Adding the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, Brian has had a full plate, no pun intended.
According to Brian, it’s not enough to keep up with a job, it’s important to “keep up with the times.” He says a growing number of people are requesting foods choices that take into consideration common food allergens, like dairy, gluten, and tree nuts. “We’ve gotten more requests for gluten free and healthier options, even from people who don’t have food allergies like Celiac Disease,” said Brian.
So when he received a request to make a gluten free version of the apple crisp being offered during Beat the Blahs, he sprang into action. Brian researched recipes and came up with a plan, which included ordering special ingredients like arrowroot, almond flour and unprocessed apples (some canned foods contain gluten), and finally creating the crisps from scratch. Approximately 800 apple crisps were served during with vanilla ice cream on the side during Beat the Blahs.
“Brian personally ensured that we had a gluten free option for staff, as he heard feedback that was something that staff was wanting,” said Senior Food Service Operations Manager Anna Gallwey. “He always goes above and beyond to ensure our customers are taken care of and are happy. He listens to feedback and is receptive to trying new items.”
Highland Café patrons can expect to see more food choices that address different dietary needs and preferences. “Moving forward, as cafeteria opens more and more, we are going to move away from the pre-packaged and grab and go items,” said Brian. “We’re looking to add a daily healthier choice option. Some things might be a vegan pizza, a pizza with a cauliflower pizza, and a vegetarian burritos with a gluten free wrap.”
5/1/2022
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