Chef Gilbert's passion for cooking was nurtured by his grandmother, who delighted the family with elaborate meals during special occasions like Christmas and Thanksgiving. Growing up in a large family, these gatherings were filled with delectable dishes and grand celebrations. Hailing from New Jersey, Gilbert has been honing his culinary skills for 35 years, starting from the tender age of 15 when he first stepped into the kitchen. Gilbert firmly believes that food possesses a unique ability to bring people together.

Have you ever wondered how we put sustainability into action at Seminole Dining? Check out our latest Behind the Scenes video on YouTube to see how! In this video, we sit down with our Sustainability Coordinator, Thel, to talk about how Food Waste, Climate Action, and Resource Stewardship are central in our efforts to set a precedent in Sustainable Dining practices. Check it out here!

There’s a new dairy alternative in Suwannee Room and Seminole Cafe! The new Califia Farms machines give you the choice between 3 plant-based dairy alternatives. There’s Oat milk, Pea milk, and Soy milk! All of these options are vegan, gluten-free, carrageenan-free, and kosher. Be sure to check them out the next time you’re in either of the dining halls!

Health & Nutrition

Do not wait, save the date for our next Culinary Creations on January 30 on the second floor of 1851. This immersive experience lets you cook, learn, and have fun alongside our talented chefs.

We can’t wait to see you there!

Give your breakfast a Brain Boost this finals week. Try topping a bowl of Greek yogurt or oats with your choice of brain-boosting add-ins! Try toppings like 1-1.5oz of dark chocolate, 2tbs of chia seeds, 1/4 cup of walnuts, or 1/2 cup of berries!

• Salmon, Sardines, Walnuts, and Chia seeds are substantial sources of Omega-3’s which improve memory and focus.
• Flavonoids in Dark Chocolate can help with mood and stress regulation, and improved blood flow to the brain.
• Anthocyanins in blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries prevent neuron damage and inflammation in the brain.

Sustainability Corner

We are looking for FSU students who want to share their handmade items or homemade foods at our Spring Farmers Markets by the Integration Statue every other Thursday. If you want to be part of the market, meet new people, and show off what you create, just scan the QR code and fill out the quick online form. Here are the requirements:

• Fill out this online interest form
• Sell either handmade items or foods following Florida Cottage Food rules
• Table and chairs provided
• Take advantage of this opportunity to showcase your own products!

If you are looking for a tasty vegan or vegetarian option on campus, you have to check out the vegan burnt ends bowl at 4 Rivers! You can customize it with any base and toppings offered, which makes it super easy to build a bowl that fits your dietary needs! Visit 4 Rivers and see for yourself how delicious and customizable these burnt ends can be!

Food for Thought Pantry

We are very excited to share that we have added new food donation bins across campus to make giving easier than ever. You can now find donation bins in Suwannee Room, Seminole Café, the Student Union, 1851, Dirac, and Strozier. You can continue donating nonperishable, nonexpired, and unopened food items, and everything collected will go directly to the Food for Thought Pantry to support students in need. With the holiday season approaching and many of us preparing to head home, this is the perfect time to clean out your pantry and make a meaningful impact on our FSU community.