Arcadia University students were recently treated to Metz Culinary Management’s creative dining promotion called Lunchbox Time Machine. Metz provides dining services for the Cheltenham-based university.
Designed to recreate the childhood cafeteria experience, the event featured classic school-day favorites and playful activities. Led by General Manager Kelli Johnson and District Chef Tim Morris, the Metz crew developed a menu inspired by childhood lunchroom staples. Among the student-approved selections were:
- Dino nuggets
- Fish sticks
- Grilled cheese
- French toast sticks
- All-beef hot dogs
- Mozzarella sticks with marinara
“We’re always looking for creative ways to engage students and enhance their dining experience,” Johnson said. “When Chef Morris suggested a throwback menu featuring childhood favorites, we knew it would be a hit. We asked our staff to share their favorite school lunches. From there, we built a menu that resonated with students and sparked fond memories for everyone.”
Meals were served on disposable compartment trays reminiscent of traditional cafeteria lunch trays. The dining hall also featured interactive activities, including a textbook-wrapping competition—a nod to the days of covering books in paper bags and doodling on them.
The friendly competition awarded prizes, with the first-place winner receiving an Oculus headset, and runners-up receiving nostalgic insulated lunch bags.
“The Lunchbox Time Machine event was a fantastic way to bring students together for a lighthearted and interactive experience,” said Dan Callen, Metz District Manager. “It was great to see so many students reliving their childhood memories while enjoying a well-prepared meal.”
For all the latest news, follow us on Facebook or sign up for Glenside Local’s “Daily Buzz” newsletter here.
Photos: Metz