What’s Next for SM Dining?

by Manasa Mahesh ‘27

As of now, I have no idea. During my time at St. Mark’s, there has been a lot of conversation about the food here, including whether the school should change providers or “upgrade” the FLIK level. I have watched the dining hall receive updates, including the addition of the stir-fry bar, but there was never a switch in providers.

However, this year, the latest contract between St. Mark’s and FLIK has ended. FLIK has been providing dining services since 1995, with contracts lasting about 5–7 years. The contract was due to end in 2024, but it was ultimately extended due to the arrival of Dr. Hills. Since the contract expires at the end of this school year, it seems the school is not just sticking with FLIK but is also surveying other vendors.

When asked why St. Mark’s is trying different options, Dr. Hills commented that it is good to collect information and that even if the FLIK contract is renewed, the school might learn something that would help it improve operations. 

So what has the process been looking like? St. Mark’s has received numerous proposals and held meetings where vendors present their plans. During Lion Term, a few students were able to go to the presentations. In an interview with one of the students, she explained that the different vendors gave presentations on their dining plans, adjustments to the Lion’s Den, and any changes they wanted to make. They also provided food and menus.

One of the proposals was from Sage Dining Services, which provides food to St. Sebastian’s and Dexter Southfield. 

Apart from presentations, Ms. Jacobi and Ms. Dionne (the CFO, who is leading this effort) visited other schools to see the different vendors in action.

But does this mean that FLIK won’t return next year? To my knowledge, that is unclear. FLIK was one of the vendors that gave proposals, so the possibility is not zero. But regardless of the outcome, there is definitely going to be a lot of change in the dining hall.