The Food Co-Op Turns 50 This Year! Here’s Why It’s a Hidden Gem
In celebration of the 50th anniversary, I spent an afternoon there to understand the ways in which it has grown. Founded in 1975 with the mission of providing organic and local foods to Binghamton students, the Co-Op is shaped by its amazing student volunteers. Over the years, it has changed locations, reworked its menus and offers a wide range of options for students looking for alternative dining on campus. Its charming atmosphere and welcoming community are enough of a reason to visit. In light of its anniversary, here are some reasons you should give this hidden gem in the Union Undergrounds a try.
It’s student-run
The Co-Op is entirely student-run, operated by volunteers who assist with prep work as needed. Volunteers can join any time during the semester, and interested students can reach out via email or by messaging the .
They serve daily specialty drinks
Alongside drip coffee, which is served every morning, the Co-Op serves specialty lattes daily. Their current most popular drink is the Rose Matcha Latte, created in collaboration with the University Art Museum. “We use a culinary grade matcha,” said Ashley, general manager of the Co-Op, “and we use a bamboo whisk and a sifter.” I gave it a try — it is worth the hype!
Food and drinks are locally sourced
The Co-Op sources its ingredients from local farms in the tri-state area. Menu items rotate throughout the year, depending on what foods are in season. Menus are designed weekly to reflect current inventory, and in addition to both local and organic menu items, all of the syrups used for drinks are made in-house.
It’s a great place to get involved
Collaborations with both on- and off-campus organizations give students the opportunity to attend a variety of events hosted by the Co-Op. Its open layout provides the perfect environment for student groups to come together. You can find handmade jewelry, clothing sellers or crocheted goods at the student flea markets hosted by the Co-Op, or stop by an open mic night held in collaboration with the . The Co-Op itself also hosts 1-2 Nite-Owl events with a revamped menu every semester, along with a fall dinner hosted yearly in November.
It’s a comforting community
Although the Co-Op continuously evolves as new and current members of the Co-Op join every semester, there is one constant: it remains a place where all students can uplift and support each other. As one of the only fully vegan options for students on campus, its determination to stay true to its core values keeps students coming back. Laura, a vegan graduate student who was first introduced to the Co-Op as a first-year student navigating COVID-19 restrictions on campus, found the Co-Op to be a place of comfort and reliability amidst the chaos. Despite only being able to pick up food at the time, the reliability of well-cooked vegan meals has kept her coming back for more. “Coming here is definitely a huge relief. I know I can eat what I want to eat here. It’s good food, like a home-cooked meal.”
My afternoon with the Co-Op was well spent. Not only was my latte amazing, but running through my mind was the question, “How can I make the most of my final semester at Binghamton?” — the answer to which can only be found in such places as the Co-Op. The Co-Op welcomes its visitors with open arms and a warm attitude. If you are looking for a place to bring your friends or make new ones, simply grab a latte and pull up a chair.
Nicole Owens is a senior English major and writing studies minor working as a communications assistant in the Office of Media and Public Relations. She is interested in pursuing a career in marketing or publishing. In her free time, she enjoys listening to music and going to the gym.
Have questions, comments or concerns about the blog? Email us at social@binghamton.edu.