The scent of freshly toasted paninis and juicy burgers will soon be just a memory in UB’s Student Union (SU), as Breadbox and Stackers are set to close at the end of this semester to make way for a new addition: The Halal Shack.
Much like Moe’s and Tim Hortons, The Halal Shack will join UB’s lineup of recognizable food chains, providing students with customizable Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-inspired bowls, wraps and salads. The shop will serve halal-certified chicken and beef, in addition to plant-based options.
The Halal Shack is set to open in the Union Marketplace & Eatery, with Edgy Veggies moving upstairs to replace Breadbox’s old spot in Pistachio’s. Among the changes, Perks in the Ellicott Food Court will be open on weekends.
Raymond Kohl, the marketing and communications director of UB’s Campus Dining and Shops, says that there has been an increase in student requests over the “past couple of years” to add more halal-certified dining options, while orders from Stackers and Breadbox have declined.
“While we have been able to source some halal-certified options in our dining centers, The Halal Shack offers a unique dining experience inspired by New York City’s vibrant halal scene,” Kohl said. “Their customizable bowls and wraps cater to a diverse student population, making them a great fit here at UB.”
Breadbox has been a campus staple, known for its signature paninis, unique sandwich combinations and build-your-own options. Stackers, located in the Union Marketplace, offers classic burgers and chicken sandwiches.
Kohl says some favorites from the two will be added to the menus at Union Station in the Union Marketplace & Eatery and 1846 Grill in One World Café.
While some students are excited about the change, others are feeling nostalgic.
“I’m sad because Breadbox felt like one of the healthier options on campus, where you could build a panini how you wanted,” said junior economics major Jayden Ramos. “But I’m excited that it will be replaced with something different. Breadbox already stood out, and it’s good that the new place will too.”
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