[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/alanakayfetz_eileenknowle.jpg” caption=”McMaster students Alana Kayfetz, combined honors in womens studies & communications, left, and Eileen Knowles, social sciences, sample the diverse menu at the grand opening of Bridges Vegetarian Cafi. Photo credit: Margi Ende”]Bridges Vegetarian Cafi celebrated its existence as one of Canada's only all-vegetarian campus eateries, at a grand opening celebration Tuesday.

The event, which was by invitation-only, featured entertainment from Pangaea, samples of food from the cafi, performances from a jazz band, an exhibition of student art, and a word from President Peter George and McMaster students Aaron Orkin and Jaime Baxter, who came up with the idea for the cafi.

“The name Bridges Cafi is aptly named, as its strictly vegan menu helps to bridge the gap between the differences in dietary preferences or restrictions of people with various religious or ethical beliefs,” said George. “The menu, with foods from around the world, mirrors the diversity that we enjoy in the student population here at McMaster. I am a strong believer that the diversity of our student body is one of our greatest strengths.”

Bridges emerged from a student vision for a place where all students can eat together on campus. The cafi developed under the working title Diversity Cafi, and through hard work and planning by the committee comprised of the McMaster Students Union, Diversity Services, McMaster University Administration, Student Affairs and Hospitality Services.

Bridges is the first all-vegetarian campus eatery in Canada that aims at meeting dietary restrictions and promoting campus diversity. Replacing the home of another first, Bridges is located in the renovated building which once was the Rathskellar, the first campus pub in Canada.

Bridges highlights cuisine from around the world. A full-service stir-fry station and sandwich bar are open for service through all operating hours. A hot entrie of the day is served during peak hours for lunch and dinner. As well, a self-serve coffee display serves fair-trade and organic coffees and teas.

For hours of operation, and to view the vegetarian menu, click here.