The Aspen Grille in the Hospitality Management Program at Colorado State University is serving up an Asian Pacific Islander Desi American-inspired menu April 6-9. The menu features dishes from India such as lentil soup, pork vindaloo, and chicken biryani.

“The menu was a collaboration with Dr. Niraj Patrawala, who used to work with us here at the Lory Student Center as a chef,” said Ken Symsack, chef at the Aspen Grille and an instructor in the Hospitality Management Program. “His main goal was that we get a more diverse representation of the regional cuisines in India.  Most of the Indian foods people are familiar with here are from the Northern region, which leaves many great dishes out of the spotlight. So, we have something from everywhere for our menu.”

Ordering from the Asian-inspired menu

All dishes are available for online ordering or indoor dining. For table reservation info, see the Aspen Grill website. Online orders can be placed through an ordering app.

The Aspen Grille will be serving the APIDA heritage menu in place of its regular menu the entire week of April 6-9. The restaurant will be closed after April 9 for the remainder of the semester due to the university’s class structure moving to a fully online format after spring break.

“The menu represents the diverse country while also being incredibly approachable to people who are not entirely familiar with Indian cuisine,” said Symsack. “It also lends itself perfectly for to-go service as many of them are routinely included in Tiffin lunch boxes.”

Asian Pacific Islander and Desi American (APIDA) Heritage Month Menu

Menu is available April 6-9.

Starter

Southern India – Dahl Lentil Soup

Choice of Main

(served with naan and rice)

Western India – Pork Vindaloo (Spicy)

Hyderbad (South Central) – Chicken Biryani

Northern India – Paneer Korma

Dessert

Northern India – Kheer

$13 plus tax/15% gratuity used to support the Aspen Grille classroom. Non-alcoholic beverage is included

The Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition is a part of CSU’s College of Health and Human Sciences.