College is truly a time for exploration, self-discovery, and bougie restaurant ventures.
Two weeks ago, Columbia economics major Jonah Reider established a New American restaurant in his dormitory suite at Hogan Hall, which he dubbed Pith.
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Basically, Reider takes reservations, charges patrons (often fellow students) a small fee per person, and then prepares a multi-course meal in his dorm's communal kitchen.
The Yelp page for Pith describes the unconventional restaurant's process:
PITH is an innovative and relaxing dining experience in a student's apartment. Meals are prix fixe, varying between $10 and $20 per person. Most meals begin with a board of excellently curated cheeses, olives, homemade pickles, and hot bread. Between 5 and 8 courses follow, showcasing fresh vegetables, seafood, and meats. Wine and cocktails are offered for an additional price.
The response to Pith has been astounding, and the gourmet dorm chef is completely booked up until Christmas break commences (although you can email Jonah if you would like to be put on a waiting list).
"I didn’t expect it to be so popular," Reider tells the New York Post.
Though he charges for meals, Reider doesn't actually turn a profit on the restaurant endeavor. If anything, it's more of a project than a business. His roommate, architecture student Jordan Walters, says that the restaurant is fun, but may eventually run its course.
“It’s definitely a lot of fun, but it can be a strain since we have to study. I guess now with his fame, we’ll have to have a discussion.”