The return of familiar Paces

October 3, 2005

Editor’s note: This article was initially published in The Daily Gazette, Swarthmore’s online, daily newspaper founded in Fall 1996. As of Fall 2018, the DG has merged with The Phoenix. See the about page to read more about the DG.

A dark night. A smattering of stars. A deserted Magill Walk and an empty stomach. Where to? Paces Café, of course! Swarthmore’s first student run eatery. Hosting a season opening last night, the staff was certainly fit to begin. With a new director and some fresh employees, most patrons agree that Paces could prove to be better than ever.

In an interview, Chef Marilyn Batonga ’08 gushed over some novel offerings, “one thing we have this year are four specials per week—-two different specials on Sunday and Monday, and again on Tuesday and Wednesday. Also, we have many more vegan and vegetarian options.” She added “it’s a blast!”

Sample advertisement

One special served last night, a traditionally Cameroonian dish of beignets, slightly spicy beans and baguette, served by Chef Batonga, was unequivocally delicious. A tour of the spacious kitchen revealed a clean atmosphere smelling almost of cinnamon. According to the menu and talks with the chef, some old favorites remain on the menu, such as pasta, dirty sundaes, and quesadillas, along with some newer items, such as more soup options.

Just after opening, Paces looked busy as ever, filled with jovial students. Alexa Bensimhon ’09 mentioned she was “enjoying it thoroughly. It’s great.” “It’s a fun and cute environment,” added her tablemate Jennie Park ’09.

Kinei Braithwaite ’08, a Paces baker also mentioned that it is a “nice environment. We’re all friends, we hang out. Of course, today’s my first day.”

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Previous Story

Weekend roundup: “I Am My Own Wife” and Gogol Bordello

Next Story

Parrish renovations nearing “bitter end”

Latest from Sports

Athlete of the Week: Lauren Lior ’27

Swarthmore women’s soccer forward Lauren Lior ’27 hails from Fairfield, CT, and is a graduate of Greens Farms Academy. During her first year with the Garnet, she had a stellar season, breaking into the starting lineup, and cementing herself as an integral

WSOC Day in the Life: Away Game vs. Muhlenberg College

As we head into the middle of the fall semester, Swarthmore’s sports schedules will become increasingly busy. While exams and paper deadlines approach quickly, varsity athletic teams plunge into the middle of conference play, when the significance of winning is the most

Swinging Through the Glass Ceiling 

The Swarthmore men’s golf team has welcomed numerous women as walk-on players over the years. Currently there are two female players competing on the men’s team: Ava Chon ’26 and Bori Chung ’28. Chon is a senior from Princeton, NJ, who went

Athlete of the Week: Melissa Eyer ’28

Melissa Eyer '28 runs the volleyball court with her elite ball control and defensive capabilities. Read on to hear more about her fourth Centennial Athlete of the Week selection!
Previous Story

Weekend roundup: “I Am My Own Wife” and Gogol Bordello

Next Story

Parrish renovations nearing “bitter end”

The Phoenix

Don't Miss