Alumni Weekend 2021 is almost here! Even if you can’t make it back to BU for our on-campus festivities, you can still join us by participating in Tastes of BU: Around the World. From Canada to Brazil — there are offerings all around the world! Get a sneak peek at some of the participating establishments below and click here for a complete list of registered alumni businesses.
To be a part of this signature event, all you need to do is place an order at a BU alumni-affiliated business between September 29 and October 3. Take a photo of your order and tag us on Instagram using @BUAlumni and #TastesofBU. We can’t wait to celebrate with you, wherever you are.
United States
Arizona
If you’re in Arizona, be sure to check out SarahBea Granola. Owned and operated by Sarah Dunlop (ENG’00), SarahBea Granola is your one-stop-shop for grain-free granola, made with all-natural ingredients and Arizona honey.
Boston
Boston has plenty of alumni-run businesses to satisfy your salty and sweet cravings! If you like northern Italian, check out Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse in the Seaport, where BU alumnus Steve DiFillippo (Questrom’82) is showcasing his talents. We also suggest stopping by EHChocolatier or Cupcake Therapy, run by Elaine Hsieh (MED’90) and Shironda White (Questrom’18), respectively. These dessert shops are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
California
If you’re in the mood for something light, check out Mad Crisp Foods, a cocktail crisp artisanal shop in Coachella Valley. After being inspired by signature snacks in New York, Younhee Choi (COM’93) set out to combine her passion for good, clean food with artisanal flavor. Combinations like Za’atar Pistachio, Porcini Herb, and Chive Almond can be found here.
Connecticut
The Hartford Flavor Company is a distillery unlike any other. This distillery, run by self-proclaimed “Lord of the Spreadsheets” Tom Dubay (COM’86), aims to provide uniquely flavored natural liqueurs that make creative cocktails an essential aspect of the dining experience. Order ahead and get all-natural, gluten-free, organic distilled Spirits.
Florida
Take a quick virtual trip to Jennifer’s Homemade for vegan, all-natural breadsticks and flatbreads made with extra virgin olive oil. Jennifer Behar (COM’89) is eager to share her crunchy and delicious breadsticks with you! Florida west coasters, especially those who live near Tampa, can check out BRŪ Florida Growler Bar, owned by Jillian & Christian Brugal (Questrom’04). Their signature drinks are best enjoyed under the sun.
New York
Take a tour of alumni-run businesses in New York. Order gluten-free desserts online from Healthy Sensations, a family-run business in Syosset owned by Lynn Citron (Wheelock’85, Wheelock’87). You can also head over to Long Island’s Gong Cha to visit Jessica Lin (Questrom’14) and try one of the most recognizable bubble tea brands in the world. End your day with an array of traditional and nontraditional craft beers courtesy of Newburgh Brewing Company and its Chief Operation Officer Paul Halayko (Questrom’04).
Pennsylvania
Stop by Dock Street Brewery’s two Philly locations for a laid-back spot to hang out with friends and family, enjoy hand-tossed, wood-fired pizza, fresh craft beer, or a brewery tour. Location submitted by Dock Street Brewing Co.’s Business Development and Marketing expert Renata Certo-Ware (CAS’08).
Rhode Island
Calling all Rhode Islanders! Bywater, a sea/farm-to-table restaurant in Warren, is excited to see you during Alumni Weekend 2021 and beyond. From seafood to pastries, Bywater has it all! Enjoy a nice dinner out on the coast at this small business owned by Kate Dickson (CAS’09).
Texas
In the mood for barbecue? Mosey on down to Austin, Texas for some of the state’s finest at B.Cooper Barbecue. Blaine Cooper (CAS’98) began his smoked meat journey at a farmer’s market stand in 2013, eventually growing it into a super-trendy food truck. Be sure to check out his signature recipes during Alumni Weekend.
Vermont
While many regulars love Harpoon Brewery for its beer and food, there’s more to this brewery than meets the eye! The employee-owned business, overseen by Al Marzi (COM’90), donates thousands of dollars each year to New England charities. You can also find
Centennial Alimentos, a brewery in Paraná, Brazil, prides itself on having the best beers for the best people. And we couldn’t agree more. After all, it is run by BU alumnus Guylherme Zaniratto (ENG’98).
Canada
Jaron Friedman (Questrom’03) is bringing the Tastes of BU to Canada! Clearly Candian is North America’s premium sparkling water alternative. Made with Canadian spring water and only four all-natural ingredients, Clearly Canadian is the perfect choice to help you cool off this summer. Try one of their five classic flavors and support this small business, no matter where you are in Canada.
France
Interested in learning how to bake classic French pastries? Look no further than Bruno’s Culinary Workshops & Supperclubs. Chef Bruno Breillet teaches French and American pastries, sweets, and cakes in both French and English. In 2011, he won a Master Chef Live bursary award for his salted butter caramel and his sweet pastry base. In the past, he’s also judged the International Chocolate Awards and been featured in Delicious magazine. Many of his products are locally sourced and we can’t wait to have him participate in alumni weekend. Submitted by Bruno’s General Director, Rick Furno (CAS’90).
Pakistan
Yogtopia in Islamabad, Pakistan is owned and operated by Maha Kamal (CAS’13). This artisanal greek yogurt shop is dedicated to helping you be the best version of yourself. For those in Pakistan, you can place an order to Yogtopia through their Instagram.
Don’t forget to register for Alumni Weekend 2021 and Tastes of BU.
Are you a BU grad looking to participate? Whether your local business is offering dine-in service, pick-up/take-away, or delivery, you can participate by registering at the link below. Click here to submit your business.