Wayne State University reopens its plant-forward dining hall

Gold ‘N’ Greens, Wayne State University’s vegan and vegetarian dining hall, has been closed for two years due to staffing issues, but this semester, the concept is making a comeback.

“We wanted to open the doors based on demand and opportunities to showcase more residential dining options by focusing more on veggie and vegan options,” said a Wayne State dining services spokesperson.

Gold ‘N’ Greens features a menu of plant-forward options, including a create-your-own taco and nacho bar, vegetarian wraps and a salad bar. The dining hall menus plant-based dishes such as vegan grilled cheese, sweet potato fries, a vegan spicy chicken sandwich and a cauliflower cashew vindaloo salad plate. Additionally, all stations at Gold ‘N’ Greens offer vegan cheese exclusively.

The dining team plans on innovating the menu through pop-up events and adding new flavors throughout the year.

The menu has changed since the original opening of the dining hall—kosher options are no longer offered. Instead, Gold ‘N’ Greens has focused on meeting demand for plant-based options.

The dining team said students have responded positively to the re-opening.

“Students, faculty, and staff gravitate toward the coziness and healthy options of Gold ‘N’ Greens,” according to the spokesperson. “We have a steady rush during breakfast and lunch.”

Plant-forward eateries have been popping up on college campuses as interest in meatless fare continues to grow. The University of North Texas was ahead of the curve, opening its vegan dining hall, Mean Greens, more than a decade ago. Concepts such as UConn’s CrossRoads cafe have since followed.