One of the many changes the COVID-19 virus brought about was the need for social distancing and contactless technologies throughout many industries, with the U of M only having recently returned to in-person classes, and with masking and social distancing guidelines still being in use.
The U of M welcomes students back in person with an upgrade to the Campo food court located in University Centre. New self-order kiosks allow students to order food from their favourite restaurants in a remote and contactless way and pick it up once it is ready.
The food court consists of multiple restaurants. AFV Kitchen (Afro Food Vineyard) offers traditional Nigerian cuisine. Their jollof rice, plantain and chicken are a personal favorite. Burrito Splendido offers customizable burritos and other Mexican fare. They are locally owned and operated here in Winnipeg.
PZA specializes in pizza, with gluten-free or plant-based options. You can build your own pizza or try one of their prefab options. Newcomer Bagelsmith offers Montreal-style bagels and sandwiches served on your choice of bagel.
The kiosks are an exciting way of ordering food because they can reduce wait time and allow customers to order with just a few taps. After you pay, you are given a reference number and the staff call this number once your food is ready.
The Hey Chef mobile app, where students can save 10 per cent on their order, lists select restaurants in the food court. You can order ahead of time and skip the line by using this app, which helps if you need to save time between classes.