All Roads Lead Back To

Words By: Jen Lozano Photos By: Eileen Shelton

It could be the long lines that snake through the dining halls. Maybe it happens to be the hours following a noontime football home game win (or loss). It would make sense for a surge of energy in the midst of studying for midterms at Bapst. It could even be a chance to catch up with a friend. Or maybe it’s just another Thursday evening on the Heights. Either way, all roads seem to lead back to local restaurants in the BC community. As it should.

The shops lining Commonwealth Avenue hold a special place in the heart of the BC community. For nearly 30 years, restaurants like Flat Breads Cafe, El Pelón Taqueria, and Crazy Dough’s Pizza have served hundreds of thousands of BC students, faculty, staff, families, and residents in the area. They’ve been there through it all with us: decades of campus visits, games, finals, graduations. When we got the email to go home due to Covid-19, they were even there upon our return the following fall semester.

These local restaurants have stood firmly by our side, something that has not gone unnoticed by BC students. Danielle Rinaldi, MCAS ‘20, made frequent visits to Flat Breads during her time here. While living in Vandy during her sophomore year, the cafe became a staple. Initially going for the Chicken Ceasar Wraps, Danielle continued her visits to Flat Breads for the friendship she found. John Acampora, the founder and owner, is the first face students tend to see when stepping into Flat Breads. Despite sitting tightly near the screeching sounds of the B-line, the welcoming atmosphere he creates almost transports you to a home kitchen. Danielle highlighted this, sharing how her and John bonded over their mutual love of the Yankees, sharing stories about their families, and more. Like many, the delicious sandwiches got her into the restaurant, but the great service and warm environment was what made it feel like an integral part of BC.

Sarah O’Connell, LSEHD ‘23, shares mutual experiences of community through local restaurants. Sarah, who works at White Mountain Creamery, has felt connected to BC beyond being the one to service ice cream. Through conversations with alumni, seeing professors and their class, or having a shift with another BC student, Sarah has seen food bring people together intentionally.

As it should. These restaurants offer so much more than a mouthwatering torta or a classic Acapulco. They bring us together. Whether it’s celebrating Marathon Monday, seeing a friendly face, catering for a tailgate, or even walking to campus, all roads point towards our local restaurants - or better yet, our community members.