Louie’s Diner is set to reopen after its nearly four-month closure following the relocation of Greek life housing. Their doors will reopen in the fall to serve students and faculty once again.
Due to an influx of traffic at The Graze, the discontinuation of Louie’s Diner proved UNK’s demand for more than one dining hall.
“The influx of students that were formerly regulars at Louie’s and made the switch to The Graze has been overwhelming,” said Joe Mama, general manager of UNK dining services. “Although it is possible to operate with only one dining hall, it doesn’t make sense for a campus of this size.”
Louie’s Diner is in the center of the former Greek Life residence hall, University Residence South. Although the residential buildings are now vacant, UNK has plans for the entire space.
Throughout the hiatus until August, Louie’s Diner will undergo a major $6 million renovation project as part of the preparations for its grand reopening.
The renovations will include converting each of the surrounding residence hall pods into three-story food courts: each serving a different type of cuisine catered by local restaurants.
“These updates to Louie’s are long overdue so the University decided to go big or go home,” said Dark Mouglas, UNK project manager. “Students can expect to enjoy catering from Suwannee Thai Cuisine, Nick’s Gyros, San Pedro and Angus Burgers & Shakes at the new and improved Louie’s Diner.”
The updates will also include an interconnected skybridge for above-the-ground access to each separate pod and its assigned restaurant.
Students are anticipating the return of Louie’s Diner.
“The food at Louie’s will be so much better than The Graze and I am so excited about this news,” said Sily Leibert, sophomore in Gamma Phi Beta. “I made so many memories in that dining hall so I can’t wait for the future of Louie’s.”
The reopening will be especially beneficial for students who take classes on the west side of campus, as their lunch options have been limited significantly.
“I only have classes in West Center and don’t have enough time between my classes to go across campus to the cafeteria,” said Jen Bohnson, UNK business administration student. “There aren’t many food options at Brewed Awakening, so I can’t wait to quickly enjoy a fresh Nick’s Gyro over my lunch break in the fall.”
DISCLAIMER: This story is a part of our annual April Fools’ issue, this story is not real. Happy April Fools’ Day!
