Spring 2017 was full of exciting changes to the dining program at George Mason University. At the beginning of the spring semester, Mason announced the addition of eight new dining options – Dunkin Donuts, two food trucks, Chipotle, Steak ‘n Shake, Blaze Pizza, Star Ginger, and Garbanzo Mediterranean Grill. Brands were chosen based on focus group feedback and survey results that revealed the need for customizable options, fresh ingredients and fast service.
To accommodate these new additions, renovations to the Johnson Center food court began over spring break. In anticipation of potentially “hangry” customers during construction, Mason Dining devised a plan to feed your student during construction. Two food court favorites, Red Hot & Blue and IndAroma, moved to a downstairs location in the Johnson Center and opened as students were returning to campus from spring break. At the same time, two food trucks opened on campus and now serve food just outside the closed food court. Steak ‘n Shake food truck and the Mason-created “Hungry Patriot” food truck provide fast service and food on-the-go for students looking for lunch and dinner options near the Johnson Center. When the food court re-opens, the Hungry Patriot will continue to operate at Mason Athletics and Eagle Bank Arena events as a concession option.
Mason Dining’s most anticipated opening of the year took place during the first week of April – our first Dunkin’ Donuts. Located on the bottom floor of the Tidewater residence hall, Dunkin’ Donuts is just around the corner from the Johnson Center and offers another option during the food court construction. Students love the fresh donuts made in-house daily, and array of breakfast sandwiches and coffee beverages.
The food court construction is scheduled to run through this summer and conclude just before the fall semester so that students may finally have access to Chipotle, Steak ‘n Shake, Blaze Pizza, Star Ginger, and Garbanzo Mediterranean Grill. At the grand opening event, students can look forward to something major – including samples, fun, and of course, the famous Mason Dining prize wheel! The official opening and grand opening dates will be released on Mason Dining’s social media outlets as we draw closer to the fall semester.
With the food trucks, Dunkin’ Donuts location, and soon-to-open new and improved Johnson Center food court, come fall, George Mason University will have an on-campus dining selection in line with the nation’s best. Mason Dining remains dedicated to providing quality food services to the Mason community by serving the community with fresh and trendy dining options.
Bridget Bukovich
Marketing Coordinator
Mason Dining