Get in the Mood for Thanksgiving With These Mouth-Watering Photos

Student Experience

Get in the Mood for Thanksgiving With These Mouth-Watering Photos

November 23, 2020 • By Jane Kelly, jak4g@virginia.edu Jane Kelly, jak4g@virginia.edu

Rotisserie turkey in Rotisserie while UVA service member works in the background

University photographer Sanjay Suchak captured several images of UVA Dine staff preparing a savory Thanksgiving feast for students.

“Turkey Day” came early at the University of Virginia, where the dining staff pulled out all the stops last week to provide a hearty feast before students return home for the Thanksgiving recess.

Local Virginia turkeys were the centerpiece of the menu offered Wednesday at Observatory Hill Dining Hall, one of three dining halls whose staff members set out a savory spread to get students in the holiday spirit.

O-Hill’s entire menu was sourced locally and also included cider-braised chicken, creamy mashed potatoes and even a seared herb tofu triangle.

University photographer Sanjay Suchak headed over to O-Hill’s kitchens, where UVA Dine employees, representing nearly a dozen countries and cultures, busily prepped for Wednesday’s meals.

Student looking at their food options while a UVA food member serves them

This student surveyed her dining options.

Food Service Member slicing Herbed Turkey for Thanksgivin

A server slices savory herbed turkey, sourced from the Virginia Poultry Farmers Cooperative.

UVA service Member basting Turkey for Thanksgiving

A UVA Dine associate tends to another dish.

Food Service Workers preparing macaroni and cheese in large platters

Large platters of macaroni and cheese were on the menu, featuring shredded marmac cheese from Mountain View Farms Products.

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UVA meal service member carrying tray of food out of the standing warmer

Suchak said his main takeaway from photographing the scenes in the kitchen was seeing teamwork in action among all of the UVA Dine staff.

Gloved hands filling up a plate with a Thanksgiving meal

UVA Dine will put out another incredible spread on Thanksgiving Day for students who have not left Grounds, plus faculty and staff, from noon to 2 p.m. at Newcomb Hall.