Binghamton University introduces Bearcat Dining, a bold, new campus dining brand

Beginning June 1, 2026, Binghamton University is introducing Bearcat Dining, a new dining experience designed to reflect the diversity, energy, and everyday needs of students and the entire campus community. Chartwells Higher Education, the University’s newly selected dining provider, will bring Bearcat Dining to life and oversee dining operations on campus.

Built around student feedback and campus collaboration, Bearcat Dining represents a refreshed approach to campus dining, one centered on greater variety, expanded access, inclusive options, wellness, and experiences that feel distinctly connected to Binghamton, part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system. Chartwells will continue to engage with key stakeholders through student group partnerships, surveys, and focus groups to ensure the program evolves in step with the needs of the Binghamton community.

“This new dining experience is about listening to the Binghamton community and translating what we heard into action,” said Paola Mignone, assistant vice president for residential experiences and auxiliaries at Binghamton University. “With bold, innovative new dining services and more ways to customize every meal, students will have greater choice, flexibility, and personalization, whether they’re grabbing something quick between classes or sitting down with friends.”

New and enhanced offerings across campus include:

• Expanded Halal and Kosher Access — Based on direct student feedback, Halal and Kosher options will be easier to discover and access across campus, including a new all-kosher truck, Nosh & Go, and a Kosher Grab n’ Go program that delivers every day convenience.
• "Delicious Without" Across Campus — Chartwells’ “Delicious Without” program, free from the top nine allergens and gluten, will expand to all four dining halls (C4, CIW, Hinman, and Appalachian), increasing safe and welcoming options for students with food allergies and sensitivities. Two registered dietitians will be available to support students with special dietary needs and preferences.
• International-Inspired Food Hall at C4 — The C4 dining hall will debut a globally inspired food hall featuring Chartwells concepts such as Masala Dabba, an Indian inspired station, and La Mesa, a Latin concept. A dedicated kosher station will continue to serve as a cornerstone of inclusive dining on campus.
• Alumni Roots and Local Flavor — Chartwells is proud to continue its partnership with Chick-N-Bap, a standout alumni-founded favorite, and Royal Indian, a local staple, both of which continue to serve the Binghamton community at the University Union. Building on these campus favorites, the Union is expanding its lineup with the arrival of new regional concepts, Halal Shack and Jamal’s Chicken, which bring even more variety and flavor to the dining experience.
• Revamped Food — Three upgraded food trucks will roll out across campus, expanding access to quick, high-quality dining, including Nosh & Go kosher food truck, Bearcat on the Prowl, and the Daily Sip for convenient, on-the-go access.

A partnership rooted in community and student success

With a focus on global flavors, inclusive access, and authentic campus connections, Bearcat Dining represents a significant investment in the everyday experience of Binghamton students.

“Bearcat Dining is more than a new name. It is a commitment to building a dining program that reflects Binghamton’s students, culture, and campus pride,” said Nadeem Zafar, chief operating officer of Continental & West, Chartwells Higher Education. "We are thrilled to welcome Binghamton’s current dining associates to the Chartwells team and partner with the people who know this campus best. Together, we will build on their deep campus knowledge while delivering more variety, access, and hospitality in ways that make dining feel easier, more inclusive, and more connected to everyday student life.”

Chartwells Higher Education is the recognized leader in contract food service management, hospitality, and guest service at more than 320 colleges and universities across the United States. Chartwells is reimagining campus dining by creating food-forward social spaces rooted in culinary excellence, nutrition, sustainability, and student engagement. Learn more at www.ChartwellsHigherEd.com and www.DineOnCampus.com