Chenango Room renovation to include a new Panera Bread location and event space

A major renovation project will take place in the space currently occupied by the Chenango Room and Einstein Bros. Bagels. Based on student, faculty and staff feedback, Panera Bread is scheduled to open in fall 2025, with a new second-story addition housing a re-imagined Chenango Room and a dedicated event space including a terrace and outdoor seating. The project is scheduled to begin this summer and last about 12–18 months.

A temporary Chenango Room Express will be made available out of the Culinary Maker Space in the Hinman Dining Center. With an emphasis on supporting faculty and staff interviews and lunch meetings, reservation-only service will be provided from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on weekdays. Reservations can be made for meetings and interviews beginning this fall by contacting the Binghamton University Dining Services (BUDS) catering department.

Also part of the project, the John Arthur Café in the Fine Arts Building will temporarily present Einstein Bros Bagels beginning in fall 2024. Students, faculty and staff will be able to enjoy a familiar menu in a new location.

“We believe the renovation of the Chenango Room will bring great excitement and even more life to the center of campus by adding a highly desirable retail outlet, Panera Bread, re-instituting a great table service venue and adding more formal and informal meeting spaces,” said Paola Mignone, assistant vice president for residential experiences and auxiliaries. “We’re hoping that great food offered in a beautiful new space will encourage continued connectivity and engagement among our campus community and visitors.”

Service in the current Chenango Room and Einstein Bros. Bagels will end May 9.