Fairfield University students are no strangers to the Tully Dining Commons. Many students have contradicting opinions about it relating to certain dishes they avoid or others they swear by. So what makes the Tully, the Tully? I collected students’ opinions on this topic to help better understand the best parts and worst parts of our dining hall on campus. Throughout the week, I talked with fellow Stags who grabbed food from the thirteen different dining stations the Tully offers, and they have given some thought to this matter and helped answer the question, is the Tully worth the meal swipe?
Every morning, the Tully offers omelets, fried eggs and egg sandwiches. They also have pre-made foods for students looking for a quick meal. Sophomore Grace Tyszka, a Fairfield University Coxswain, says her favorite meal after her early morning practice is the chocolate chip pancakes. Sophomore Charlotte Black, every morning, cannot wait for her omelets and side of fresh fruit at the fruit station. This year, Fairfield University invested in smoothie stations where students can go and make smoothies for their tasting. Most students highly recommend it!
Dinner meals at the Tully range from all different types of food: pasta, meats and cooked vegetables, to name a few. Sophomore Catherine Flemming stated she doesn’t enjoy some of their combinations of foods, specifically when they add certain vegetables to basic meals like macaroni and cheese. Sophomore Isabella Sagarese says her favorite meal at dinner is the lemongrass station which offers a variety of different bowls. Specifically, her favorite is the chicken and rice bowl option with a side of cooked zucchini. Overall, the consensus on this seems to need improvement.
An awesome station the Tully provides is the True Balance station which caters to students with allergies or intolerances to certain foods. They emphasize balanced nutrition with a focus on healthier choices with options including vegan, gluten-free and allergen-free dishes and are plant-based. Sophomore Olivia Foran favorite dish to get from this station is the confetti rice and steak. With a peanut and dairy allergy, this station gives her peace of mind that she is eating safe food. Olivia rated this station a seven out of ten.
The Tully’s sandwich lab offers a variety of made-to-order sandwiches that fit everyone’s needs, especially at lunchtime. The great thing about this station is its consistency with items. Other stations change daily, whereas this station keeps consistent options for those who like to eat the same meal every day. Sophomore Mary DiIorio both agree that grilled cheese is a staple at the sandwich station, especially on tomato soup Friday! Sophomore Fletcher Reiley is in disagreement and says that the chicken bacon ranch sandwich is the way to go. Overall, this station holds high ratings from students and is well-loved.
The confectionery station is also a staple after every Tully meal. Some favorites from the entire study body are the famous Tully cookies that are best warm. I love to put a scoop of ice cream on top. Sophomore Mary DiIorio talked about her love for the chocolate chip banana bread, always taking extra slices back to her dorm for friends!
The Tully can be seen from many different perspectives of the students. But with its good days and bad days, the Tully will always have a perfect option for you and your dietary needs!
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