by Aimee Lee ’24
Published Oct. 10th, 2022
With the buzz of the lunch bell, swarms of hungry students fly from their classes straight to the cafeteria. In a matter of minutes, hives of hungry teens form behind the entrances to the serving area. Once inside, students are presented with a plethora of lunch options sure to satisfy a wide variety of tastes.
Those craving unique and cultural flavors can satisfy their tastes at the fusion bar. Grilled bars offer cheeseburgers, chicken or Philly cheesesteak sandwiches, and chicken tenders. The Pizza Stone provides cheesy pizza slices with an assortment of toppings. Furthermore, a deli counter allows students to customize sandwiches with a variety of meat, cheese, and vegetable selections. Fridges hold premade salads, parfaits, hummus platters, and sides of fruits and vegetables. Vegetarian options are also available. Coffee and slushie machines, quick snacks, and cold drinks are offered as well.
We can thank Maschio’s Food Service for this refreshing change in lunch scenery. In the fall of 2022, the new food vendor was brought in by Montgomery Township School District.
According to their website, Maschio’s “provide[s] the highest level of service for all school district food service programs with [their] experienced personnel.”
Not only does Maschio’s value the importance of variety in food selection, but the quality and nutritional value of lunches as well.
Food Service Director Valerie Chernish confirms Maschio’s follows New Jersey’s School Nutritional Policy to ensure students are getting the important nutrients they need. Maschio’s provides all five required food components every day, serving fruits, vegetables, meat/meat alternatives, grains, and dairy in their daily menus. Their staff makes sure students are served at least three of the components.
Healthily prepared meals are the standard at Maschio’s. Recipes are homemade from scratch and always use fresh ingredients.
“We are what we eat,” says Chernish, “Anything that you are putting into your body is going to affect the whole of the person.”
Additionally, creative meal ideas establish the cafeteria as a fun and friendly eating environment. For example, the fusion bar serves culturally unique foods. During National Hispanic Heritage Month, Maschio’s served burrito bowls, quesadillas, and other Latin-inspired cuisines. Pan-Asian, Mediterranean, and Italian dishes are also routinely on the menu.
Chernish states, “We came in here with great intention to bring some awesome food. It’s been really nice to get all the positive feedback.”
More information regarding Maschio’s Food Service menu, ingredients, nutrition, and pricing at Montgomery High School can be found at https://maschiofood.com/montgomery-high-school/.