ASUCD ADMINISTRATIVE PLAN
COFFEE HOUSE
PURPOSE AND BACKGROUND:
The Coffee House was established by the Associated Students of the University of California, Davis (ASUCD) on January 22, 1968, as an alternative to traditional, institutional food service. A group of students, faculty, staff, and community members developed the idea a year earlier with the intent of establishing a small coffee shop which would provide high quality food as well as an environment where students, faculty, staff, and community members could relax in a casual atmosphere. The original Coffee House, which was located in East Hall, had local art on the walls, sawdust on the floor, and used recyclable paper products. This contrasted greatly with the stainless steel spoons and knives used by ARA Slater (the contract food vendor at that time).
The Coffee House moved to the Memorial Union in the fall of 1973, following the destruction of East Hall. During the years 1975-1979, the Coffee House spent increasing amounts of money in two areas: facility modification and entertainment. The entertainment costs were associated with bringing top entertainers into the 300-seat patio area. Facility modification costs helped provide grills and other equipment needs. During the 1978-1979 academic year, the Coffee House had 7 career staff and 40 student staff.
In 1980-1981, the University instituted a rent charge. This followed a consultant's report in 1974, and six years of debate concerning whether the student government should have to pay a rent charge. During the same year, a hot dinner program was initiated.
In 1981, the Coffee House was allowed to operate during the summer. ASUCD then recruited a 12-month food service professional.
In 1982-1983, the Coffee House became the predominate food service unit in the Memorial Union. It was no longer the small, intimate coffee shop that once was envisioned. It does however maintain a different atmosphere and a different product...