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

“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.

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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.
Thanks for Practicing Social Distancing Floor sticker
Students lined up for their meals – physically distanced, of course.
Cooked Turkey sitting on a prep table resting
A mouth-watering roasted Virginia turkey.
Man getting a turkey breast out of the rotisserie
Turkey breasts were roasted in a rotisserie machine.
UVA Dine employee giving student a thumbs up
A UVA Dine employee gives a student a thumbs-up.
UVA Chef preparing food for UVA students
Suchak said the food “was impressive and delicious.”
UVA Dine Service Member preparing a plate for student
UVA Today wishes all its readers a happy and safe Thanksgiving.

Media Contact

Jane Kelly

University News Senior Associate Office of University Communications