As the new semester begins, we’re excited to spotlight Collins Farms, a cherished locally and women owned business now serving the WashU community from its satellite location at the Law School Café on the Danforth Campus.
Known for its fresh flavors, dedication to healthy eating, and student-focused innovation, Collins Farms is here to elevate your campus dining experience. Stop by today to enjoy delicious options crafted with care!
A Rooted Beginning
Collins Farms began in Edwardsville, Illinois, in the summer of 2022, as a passion project between the founder Sophie Gianaris and her mom. Sophie went to college in Charleston, South Carolina, and was inspired by the healthy, creative food options and wanted to bring something similar to her hometown. The name “Collins Farms” pays tribute to her grandfather, a farmer who instilled a love for fresh, wholesome food in the family.
During summer visits to her grandfather, Sophie and her family would enjoy fresh produce from his garden. He often said, “Get your greens,” as they gathered ingredients and made salads from his homegrown vegetables—a phrase that later became the slogan of Collins Farms.
With a dedication to their roots, the family-owned business quickly gained traction for its vibrant menu and heartfelt story.
A New Chapter at WashU
Collins Farms’ expansion to WashU was a bold step forward. After learning about the opportunity to lease a dining space at the WashU law school, Sophie pitched their concept and participated in a rigorous selection process, including multiple tastings and meetings. Their efforts paid off, and the WashU location opened to rave reviews.
“It was life-changing,” Sophie shared. “We love WashU and the community here.”
The WashU spot expanded Collins Farms’ menu beyond salads to include a wider variety of fresh, healthy options, tailored to meet the diverse needs of the campus community.
A Fresh Look
Last summer, Collins Farms underwent a major rebrand. The team enlisted the talents of a WashU student artist to create hand-drawn designs, along with an eye-catching mural that now adorns the back wall of the WashU Law Cafe. This artistic transformation not only refreshed the brand’s image but also aligned it with contemporary trends, making Collins Farms a standout presence on social media platforms.
“She hand-painted the back wall and designed everything from scratch,” the founder said. “It was important to us to work with someone who could bring an authentic, personal touch to our branding.”
The rebranding efforts have significantly boosted social media engagement, attracting increased customer interest and fostering a loyal online following. By leveraging platforms like Instagram and TikTok, Collins Farms has successfully showcased its vibrant atmosphere and delectable offerings, resonating with the student body and beyond.
Students at the Heart of the Business
A cornerstone of Collins Farms’ success at WashU is its commitment to student employment. The majority of the staff, particularly those managing the coffee bar, are WashU students. This approach not only provides flexible job opportunities that accommodate academic schedules but also cultivates a friendly and familiar environment for customers. The student-run operations have enhanced the dining experience, creating a sense of community and camaraderie that is highly valued by patrons.
Since the rebranding and the integration of student employees, Collins Farms has witnessed remarkable business growth. Transitioning from serving approximately 100 customers a day to catering to more than 600, the restaurant has navigated this surge with the help of dedicated student staff who have embraced their roles with enthusiasm and professionalism.
Support from WashU
The expansion of Collins Farms into WashU has been greatly supported by the university, particularly the Dining Services administration, who have shown immense faith in the business, providing a nurturing environment that has been pivotal to Collins Farms’ growth. The central location within the campus has further contributed to its success, making it a convenient and popular choice for the WashU community.
Looking Ahead
The partnership with WashU has been instrumental in Collins Farms’ success. The central location has laid a strong foundation for future growth.
As Collins Farms looks to the future, potential expansion beyond WashU is on the horizon. But for now, they’re focused on deepening their connection to the WashU community and continuing to provide fresh, healthy options that make students and staff feel at home.
Get Your Greens!
Collins Farms is excited to be part of your WashU experience. Stop by their location at the law school to grab a panini, salad, or açaí bowl and experience the perfect blend of fresh flavors, family tradition, and student-centered service. Here’s to a delicious new semester!
Stay connected with Collins Farms by following their Instagram and visiting their WashU location for the latest menu updates and special events.