OLD WORLD MEETS NEW. Aramark’s Topio’s pizza concept marries old world elements with modern  avors.

Aramark Higher Education has launched Topio's, a pizza concept designed for college environments that menus old-world style pizza that can be customized with modern flavors and spices. The “old-world trappings” include fresh pressed dough for thin crusts, organic tomatoes and a traditional blend of mozzarella and asiago cheeses.

Slices can be customized with a variety of spice blends such as Smokin' Hot, Cheesy Hot, Spicy Hot and traditional oregano. The menu also features a Daily Creation pizza as well as traditional favorites like cheese, pepperoni and veggie, as well as strombolis and calzones.

“Topio's was created based on extensive, proprietary research with Gen-Y'ers around the country,” says Naala Royale, vice president of marketing. “Our customers want a pizza concept that stays true to old-world tradition in terms of great dough, sauce and cheese, but brings an element of new-world customization with the infusion of modern flavors and spices.”

Topio's is now open at two campuses: the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and American International College in Springfield, MA. It will roll out nationally over the next year with each location featuring the character of a neighborhood pizzaria, though with modern influences such as digital menu boards and lighting.

Other brands recently launched by Aramark Higher Education include Burger Studio, P.O.D. Provisions on Demand Market, Zoca Fresh Mex to the Max and Bleecker Street.