UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -- Penn State Housing and Food Services has entered into a new partnership with international brand Au Bon Pain Café Bakery. Au Bon Pain will operate three separate locations on Penn State’s University Park campus.
“We wanted to partner with a quality brand that reaches everyone, and also offers a fresh and healthy menu,” said David Gingher, director of Retail Campus Dining. “We were impressed by what Au Bon Pain had to offer, particularly with its experience in a university setting.”
Au Bon Pain will operate its main location in the Kern Building as Au Bon Pain at Otto’s Café. Otto’s was named in honor of Otto Mueller, former assistant vice president for Housing and Food Services who oversaw major expansions in housing and food services on campus. Mueller also was recognized as an advocate for student involvement. Satellite cafes, including Au Bon Pain at Reese’s Café, will also be located in the Information Sciences and Technology Building and Zoller Gallery.
Renovations at the three locations are set to begin in June with opening day planned for the end of August. Each location will offer the full Au Bon Pain menu, including authentic artisan breads, made-to-order sandwiches, soups, salads, entrées and fresh baked goods. Penn State’s campus and commuter meal plans, and Lion Cash+ will be accepted, and all prices will be in line with other on-campus dining options.
Au Bon Pain (“the place of good bread”) was founded in 1978 and has grown into an internationally recognized leader in the fast casual restaurant category. The chain’s signature items – sandwiches, breads, pastries, salads, soups and coffee – are served in café environments emphasizing quick service and hospitality. The company currently operates in 318 locations in the U.S. and internationally.
“We pride ourselves on giving guests fresh and healthy options," said Sue Morelli, Au Bon Pain CEO. “Our menu spans from morning to night, while our service system allows guests to choose among made-to-order sandwiches and salads as well as flavorful pre-made options if they are on the run. We look forward to serving delicious food with warm hospitality to the Penn State University community.”
Au Bon Pain has been routinely recognized for its commitment to offering consumers healthy options. Health Magazine named Au Bon Pain one of five "healthiest" restaurants, while being ranked No. 10 in FastCasual.com’s "Top 100 Movers and Shakers." In addition, Au Bon Pain has been honored for its dedication to sustainability practices, including most recently by Duke University’s Students for Sustainable Living Program.