Variety of Rice Side Dishes Helps UCLA Reap Rewards of Authentic Ethnic Fare

The Rendezvous cafe at the University of California-Los Angeles has a mission to satisfy student …

The Rendezvous cafe at the University of California-Los Angeles has a mission to satisfy student demands for more authentic, flavorful and healthier ethnic fare.

Side dishes of steamed white rice, steamed brown rice, vegetable fried rice and Mexican rice, priced at $1.50 each, are integral to the concept, which offers both Asian and Mexican foods. Entrees, priced at $4.75 to $5.75, include Orange Chicken and Spicy Eggplant with Tofu as well as Carne Asada and Fish Tacos.

The variety of rice side dishes was a hit with residents during a limited test of the cafe last semester, reports assistant director of UCLA dining services Charles Wilcots. “They really compliment our entrees. It’s a wonderful mix for our resident population.” During the test, Rendezvous served approximately 20% more students than anticipated. “We’re striving for authenticity,” says Wilcots. “Our residents will tell us if it’s not. They have very sophisticated palates.”