Employee Jerry Morrissey (left) chats with students in 1944 in the former Union Grill. ISU Dining's newest venue in the MU food court is a nod to the original grill. Photo courtesy of Special Collections and University Archives.
The newest option in the Memorial Union's (MU) food court reaches back to the building's opening. The 1928 Grill began serving hamburgers and fries at the start of spring semester, and its name is a nod to a dining option in the MU when it opened in 1928.
Located in the back right corner of the food court, The 1928 Grill replaces Zodiac Cheese Steaks with a classic menu of hamburgers, cheeseburgers (American, cheddar or pepper jack), bacon cheeseburgers and potato-skin fries. The burgers, with a toasted brioche bun, can be topped with shredded lettuce, sliced tomato, red onion, dill pickles and a house burger sauce.
"Zodiac Cheese Steaks didn't gain the popularity that we anticipated, so that, along with requests from students to bring back burgers, led to the decision to bring back a fan favorite," said Meredith Ponder Hanisch, communication and marketing director for campus life.
The 1928 Grill is the most recent addition to the first floor of the MU since Sushi Do opened in October 2023. Ponder Hanisch said ISU Dining continually evaluates its offerings to ensure it's following food trends, meeting customer expectations and providing an array of options.
"We have QR codes posted at all of our locations for students to provide feedback. In addition, the Inter-Residence Hall Association, a student-run organization, shares students' suggestions with us in a collaborative way," Ponder Hanisch said.
In 1928, the Union Grill was located on the west side of the commons and offered hamburgers and shakes as part of its menu.
Serving faculty and staff
Ponder Hanisch said the food court provides faculty, staff and those on a schedule with options but, like most restaurants, is busiest around noon and when classes let out. Customers arriving a little earlier or later than the peak times reduce wait times.
"I went over recently and stood in the longest line," she said. "I got my meal, picked out a side and filled a fountain drink before walking back to my office -- a 10-minute walk -- and still was back in less than 30 minutes."
Brian Reichert, MU food court manager, said the food court remains popular with faculty and staff, especially those working in the MU and surrounding buildings. Students living off campus and first-year students also frequent it. ISU Dining went cashless in May 2023 but faculty and staff can use their meal plan, meal block swipes, dining dollars or credit/debit card.
Food court options
The 1928 Grill joins these menu options in the food court on the ground level of the MU:
Lance & Ellie's: Made-to-order deli sandwiches
Pono Poké: A Hawaiian concept of sushi in a bowl
Poco Picante: Mexican burritos and bowls
Rowdy Rooster: Gluten-free chicken strips and fries
The Mix: Salad bar, soups, fruits and fresh sides
Godfather's: Pizza
Grab and go: Desserts, chips and drinks
Other ground-level options near the food court are the MU Market and Café (coffee, bakery items and snacks), Panda Express (Chinese) and Sushi-Do.
"It is a good variety in the food court, and students, faculty and staff are able to find something they want," said Cheryl Lounsberry, assistant director of the MU food court and catering.
