Elon University adds vegetarian outlet

ELON, N.C. — Elon University sophomore Michelle Rave regularly eats her lunches each week at Green World at 1889 at Colonnades Dining Hall.

Rave of Stevens Point, Wis., is an Applied Math major who likes to spend time studying at Green World during lunch as well. Green World opened for students and faculty in February. Green World offers vegan and vegetarian options that Rave enjoys.

“They have a lot of good vegetables, which I really like,” Rave said.

Rave said she wasn’t vegan or vegetarian but liked Green World since it allowed her to mix up her diet. Before going to Green World, Rave said she didn’t eat tofu. Now, tofu is a regular part of her diet.

She started eating at Green World shortly after it opened. Rave said this semester she eats at Green World every day.

Elon University Executive Chef Pinky Varghese said Green World was established to meet the growing demand on campus for vegan and vegetarian food options. The menu includes produce from local farms. Varghese said the menu also includes gluten-free items and kosher foods as well.

Varghese has been on staff for three years and said he has seen an increase in the demand for vegan and vegetarian foods on campus.

“Green World is a great concept,” Varghese said. “There weren’t as many options for vegan and vegetarian before.”

Varghese said the food offered at Green World is “simple food that people can relate to.” The menu constantly changes, too, to keep the choices fresh.

Elon University Director of Operations Mike Bellefeuil said students’ food options on campus reflect a mix of cultures.

“There is a percentage of the population that prefers to eat vegan and vegetarian,” Bellefeuil said. “We knew the demand was here, so we decided to go ahead and put it in place.”