Manhattan University Dining Services Earns Multiple NACUFS Honors
Manhattan University Dining Services received multiple 2026 NACUFS honors, led by a Gold award for Zaro’s Family Bakery in the Retail Sales: Single Concept of the Year category. Additional recognition celebrated campus dining programs connected to Family Weekend, Commencement and allergen safety training.
Zaro’s Family Bakery, located on the second floor of Thomas Hall, earned Gold in the Retail Sales: Single Concept of the Year category. Designed to reflect the feel of a traditional neighborhood bagel shop, the café has quickly become a popular gathering place for students, faculty and staff, offering coffee, breakfast items, sandwiches and assorted pastries.
Manhattan’s dining services team was also recognized for “Cooking With Kevin: Family Weekend Edition – Making (Apple)Core Memories,” which received Bronze in the Residential Special Event of the Year category. The interactive culinary program was designed around themes of family, tradition and connection, with fresh-picked apples sourced from local farms. The menu and event concept drew on the symbolism of apple trees and family trees, highlighting strong roots and nurturing bonds.
The University also received Bronze in the Catering Special Event of the Year category for “Milestones Unlocked,” the 2025 Commencement gathering. The event was recognized for its thoughtful approach to guest experience and its role in supporting the celebratory nature of Commencement. Manhattan University colors, branded elements and creative food presentation helped create a visually engaging and memorable atmosphere for graduates and their guests.
In addition, Manhattan University earned Honorable Mention in the Employee Development Program of the Year category for its Allergen Safety Development Program, created in connection with the launch of the Delicious Without station in Locke’s Loft, also located in Thomas Hall.
The program was developed to support the safe preparation of meals free from top allergens through a structured, certification-based training pathway for culinary team members. Staff received advanced credentials and hands-on operational guidance focused on safety, accuracy and hospitality. The program also helped strengthen employee satisfaction by elevating professional recognition, purpose and pride within the culinary team.
The NACUFS Awards recognize excellence in collegiate dining programs across areas including retail operations, catering, residential dining, special events, sustainability and staff development.
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About Manhattan University
Founded in 1853, Manhattan University is an independent Lasallian Catholic institution located in Riverdale, NY that embraces students of all faiths, cultures, and traditions. The mission of the University is to provide a dynamic student-centered educational experience that prepares graduates for lives of personal development, professional success, civic engagement, and service to their fellow human beings. Manhattan University offers programs that integrate a broad liberal arts education coupled with a concentration in specific disciplines in the arts and sciences with professional preparation in business and engineering, ensuring graduates will excel in their chosen fields. The University consists of the Kakos School of Arts & Sciences, the O’Malley School of Business, and the School of Engineering. For further information, please visit www.manhattan.edu.