Planning an event or just looking for a bite at Northwestern's Norris University Center? It's a hub of activity, and understanding the food and catering options available can make all the difference. Let's break it down.
Catering for Events: Planning Ahead is Key
If you're organizing something more formal within the Norris Center, like a meeting or a program, Sodexo holds the exclusive catering contract. To ensure you get the best selection and service, it's wise to book your catering at least seven business days in advance. Life happens, and sometimes things come up last minute, so they do try to accommodate requests made with less notice, but it's not always guaranteed. Be aware that new orders can be cut off once their daily service capacity is reached.
There are a few financial considerations to keep in mind. For catering within the Norris Center, there's a $100 minimum. If you're looking at full-service catering outside the center, that minimum jumps to $250. For a simpler drop-off or disposable service outside the center, the minimum is $100.
And a heads-up on timing: orders placed within 72 hours of delivery will incur a 15% service fee if confirmed. Even same-day additions to existing orders can come with a 25% fee, if they can be accommodated at all. Also, if you're requesting ancillary items like specialty linens or equipment, expect a 20% handling fee. And yes, if you need buffet tables set up outside the Norris Center, there will be rental and set-up charges.
Student Group Snacks: A Little Something Extra
For recognized student organizations, there's a bit of flexibility for organizational meetings. You're allowed to bring in purchased snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages, as long as the total value doesn't exceed $35. Think pretzels, chips, salsa, crackers, candy, popcorn, cookies, brownies, peanuts, baked goods like donuts or muffins, and even fruit and veggie platters. For drinks, sodas, bottled water, iced tea, juice, and punch/lemonade are generally good to go.
Fundraising Food: What You Can and Can't Offer
Student organizations looking to fundraise on the ground floor of the Norris Center have specific guidelines for offering food and beverages in exchange for donations. What you can't offer is just as important as what you can. This includes any food requiring temperature control, anything that needs to be assembled on-site, and, of course, anything containing alcohol. Also, stick to Coca-Cola soft drink options. If you're ever unsure about an item, it's best to reach out to Compass Catering or Norris Event Planning. And remember, a liability waiver form must be signed and filed with the Event Planning office, and clear signage advising guests about the food's origin is required.
General Hours of Operation
Beyond specific catering policies, it's helpful to know the general hours. The main Norris Center, including SOURCE and the MGC Lounge, is open from 8:00 am to 12:00 am on weekdays and Saturdays, and 10:00 am to 12:00 am on Sundays. Administration, Event Planning, and Campus Life offices operate from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday, and are closed on weekends. The Northwestern Bookstore has typical retail hours, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday, also closed on weekends. US Bank is open from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.
So, whether you're planning a large event or just grabbing a quick snack, understanding these guidelines will help you navigate the Norris Center's food offerings smoothly.
