Campus Dining wins National FARE Feast Award

Appalachian State University's Campus Dining has been recognized with a national FARE FEAST Award for Outstanding Allergen-Free Menu Innovation for the Savor Station at Rivers Street Café.

Presented by the Food Allergy Research & Education(FARE) Organization, the award honors food service programs that create diverse, innovative, and appealing allergen-free dining options for students.

Located inside Rivers Street Café, App State’s largest dining facility, the Savor Station offers chef-driven meals made from scratch without the top nine allergens and gluten. The concept focuses on bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and globally inspired bowls designed to appeal to all students, not just those managing food allergies.

Rather than labeling the station as “allergen-free,” Campus Dining intentionally highlights the quality and creativity of the menu. Dishes such as blackened chicken bowls, harissa chickpea bowls, and chicken tikka curry bowls draw long lines during peak dining hours, attracting everyone from athletes fueling up after practice to students seeking a fresh, balanced meal.

By focusing on flavor first and safety by design, the Savor Station has helped remove the stigma often associated with special diets while allowing students with food allergies to dine confidently alongside their friends.

The recognition reflects Appalachian State’s commitment to culinary innovation, student wellness, and creating dining experiences that are both safe and exciting for the entire campus community.