Chick-N-Bap Comes to the Marist Cabaret

Students came back from winter break surprised to find Chick-N-Bap replacing their favorite staples in the Cabaret, leading to mixed reviews for campus’ newest dining option

Chick-N-Bap is a New York street food inspired Korean chain that offers rice bowls, sandwiches, lettuce bowls, burritos called “baprritos,” alongside various sides and sauces.

Although it’s new to the Cabaret, Chick-N-Bap isn’t new to Marist Dining as a whole. They were featured at Taste of Poughkeepsie in the fall, as well as holding several pop-up events on campus last spring.

Kate Cole, Field Marketing Specialist for Marist Dining Services, said Marist Dining decided to introduce Chick-N-Bap because of the positive feedback students gave it at previous events on campus, and to make more food options available to students. “We really wanted to bring in an off-campus vendor to offer unique cuisine here,” she said.

Students have expressed mixed feelings about the new chain. “I actually really like the food,” said Nash Mendlinger ‘23, “However there are so many staples of the Cab I crave and I came back and they’re not there.” 

John Amico ‘23 agreed, saying “I personally miss some of the options the Cab had like the chicken tenders and quesadillas.”

But other students feel that Chick-N-Bap is an improvement to Marist’s dining options. “I think it’s much better,” remarked Jacob Ingebristen ‘23. “I’m also gluten-free and dairy-free, so I didn’t have a lot of options but here I have a lot more options.”

Chick-N-Bap offers several options that cater to students with dietary restrictions, including ginger-scallion mushrooms, Korean hummus, and pita bread for vegan and vegetarian students. 

Although students are enjoying the food, many have complained about losing their favorite foods at the Cabaret and not being told that changes were happening. “You didn’t warn the staff, you didn’t warn the students,” remarked Tim Reid, supervisor at the Cabaret. “A lot of students are offended by that, and rightfully so.”

When asked about the sudden introduction of Chick-N-Bap, Cole explained that negotiations with the company were still going on during winter break. “We couldn’t necessarily go and promote to the students until things were squared away,” she said.

As far as student complaints are concerned, Cole encouraged students to reach out and voice their concerns. “We listen to the students,” said Cole.

Cab favorites will still be available to students at other dining locations on campus like North End Dining, Steel Plant Garden Café, and Marketplace. 

Chick-N-Bap is located in the Cabaret inside the Murray Student Center. The hours remain from 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m. Monday through Friday, and noon to 1 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

Cover photo: Chick-N-Bap Site