The Tavern, which is currently under construction, plans to open in time for Welcome Week.
According to the senior director of the University Center, Michael Elmore, the Tavern construction is progressing on schedule. He expects the Tavern should be done in time for school to open in the fall; with the latest completion date being set for Aug. 15. Elmore stated that people involved in the project hope to have the Tavern finished by the start of welcome week so that it can be used for new student activities.
One hazard people have encountered in renovation of the Tavern is the confined use of space. Three separate dining sections needed to coexist with a social area. Those in charge of changes needed to determine exactly what shape the Tavern should take in order to accommodate these essentials.
"There has been no difficulty in building the Tavern, just functionality-wise," Elmore said
Kelly Keegan, the interior designer to the Tavern, said that its space is meant to cater to everyone, with a variety of meals.
Food chooses will include burgers, sub sandwiches and salads, as well as grill options such as pizzas and calzones. Stone pizza will be the brand provided at the restaurant. Both meal plans and cash can be used at the Tavern in addition to EagleBuck$.
Elmore said that contracted vendors such as Jamba Juice or Chic-Fil-A would still be a part of the Tavern. However, he explained that Bon Appetit would produce all the food. He also added that, contrary to what students may have heard, beer would still be sold to students of the legal drinking age.
Director of Housing and Dining Programs Julie Webber said that the Tavern would be open from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m., Monday through Thursday. On Fridays, the Tavern will close before 11 p.m. Hours on the weekend still have to be determined.
Some students expressed different reasons to spend time at the Tavern.
"I like to go there for late night because it provides a chill atmosphere to hang out with friends in a more relaxed atmosphere," junior Christian Curran said.
Junior Caroline Poteat agreed, saying that goes to the Tavern for the social atmosphere.
However, a concern both voiced was the high price of food items. Both students said they went to the Tavern last year and will continue to go there in this coming year.
Elmore said that people involved in changes to the Tavern hope to provide for a place to go at night. The bar has been removed to allow flexibility for floor space where portable staging for musical performances can take place.
"I think this will be the first year that the campus has a full-service operation available," Elmore said. "The tavern will be more attractive for events as well as food so we can keep the place lively"
