The food court reopened yesterday with three new restaurants, the return of Subconnection and a Colonel’s Retreat.Walls were knocked down to expand the Student Union to offer more variety, such as hamburgers, pizza, fresh salads and nachos.
“It is a lot bigger than how it was before. It looks like it will accommodate more people,” Johnathan Lynch, culinary senior from Ruston, said.
The renovation occurred after student surveys repeatedly reported displeasure with the old options, Richard Curtis, general manager of Sodexo food services, said.
“We listened to student surveys and we’re trying to meet everyone’s needs. We’re hoping everyone will find something they want,” Curtis said.
“We knew it was a bit outdated and nobody really liked the places we had before,” Sarah Thibodeaux, public relations intern for Sodexo, said.
The Wall of Greens, The Original Burger Company and Big Bayou Pizza and Pasta replaced Jazzman’s and the Selona Grill while Subconnection stayed.
“The food is amazing. I had a bite of everything! I like the look of the new union. It’s like a cafeteria center setting. It’s easier for people to access,” Paula Hotard, program coordinator of the dyslexia center, said.
The Colonel’s Retreat was originally located off-campus. The new retreat is now located in the Student Union where Godfather’s Pizza was once located.
Debbie Raziano, director of alumni affairs, hopes more alumni will visit and have parties at the new location.
Like the original Colonel’s Retreat, the new retreat also serves alcoholic beverages to those 21 and older.
“As long as the alcohol stays contained to where they check IDs, I think it’s a perfect idea,” Daniel Ruiz, speech and theater instructor, said.
Other menu options include ribs, hot wings, po boys and chili cheese fries.
Brenda Haskins, executive director of auxiliary services, said prices fall between $3-$8.
“Everything in the union is a Sodexo brand, so it will be cheaper for you guys, because we’re not buying a franchise,” Thibodeaux said.
While many people thought the prices are reasonable, some were concerned with the long-term consequences.
“I don’t think the prices are good enough for this to be a daily thing, as the prices add up,” Ruiz said. “It’s something I would do once a week.
