The New J Street


September 29, 2011

members of the university community stand behind ribbon with scissors in hand in lobby of J Street

George Washington students, faculty and staff gathered together Tuesday for the ceremonial ribbon cutting of the enhanced J Street eatery.

They were celebrating the new dining options that began this semester, offering more variety, convenience and healthy options.

“About nine months ago, the GW community and Sodexo embarked on a mission to create some concepts that were unique to George Washington. We wanted to bring concepts in that our students wanted and that were more unique to the campus,” said Rich Yokeley, Sodexo resident direct manager for GW. “And now I’m proud to say mission accomplished.”

The revamped dining options include the Metro Diner, which features a made-to-order grill, all-day-breakfast and salad bar, and Thyme, which specializes in comfort food, homestyle favorites and a daily Buff and Blue Plate Special. Other features include a coffee shop serving Seattle’s Best Coffee at a lower price than Foggy Bottom market price, tangy frozen yogurt and a variety of international foods.

The changes are a result of the university working with the Student Dining Board to best meet the students’ needs for new dining choices.

“I first started hearing about dining concerns from students when I first arrived, no make that eight months before I arrived,” said George Washington President Steven Knapp. “The leadership of our students in particular has really helped push us in the direction of sustainability and healthy food choices.”

Ben Leighton, chairman of the Student Dining Board, said he has only heard good things about the new J Street. Students are pleased with the fresher and healthier options, he said.

“The dining changes have already improved morale on campus. Dining is unique in that it affects everybody on a daily basis so when people are unhappy with it, it affects their daily behavior,” said Mr. Leighton. “But with the changes, it seems that students are excited about the new offerings.”

After Dr. Knapp, Mr. Yokeley, Mr. Leighton and several others cut the ribbon, students, faculty and staff celebrated by enjoying a variety of free samples provided by Sodexo, including chocolate covered strawberries and bacon-wrapped shrimp.

“Our goal was to create a different and unique dining experience at J Street, and we are pleased with the results as students are telling us that we’ve hit the mark to bring a healthier, fresher and more interesting variety of food options to the new J Street,” said Nancy Haaga, managing director of Campus Support Services.

In addition to providing grab-and-go options, the new J Street provides a new seating and lounge area for students.

“We wanted J Street to be a place to hang out with friends and spend time together,” said Mr. Leighton.

Another popular change is the expanded hours. The Metro Dinner and the Coffee Shop are open from 8 a.m to midnight on weekdays and noon to midnight on weekends.

“It’s wonderful to see students meeting, studying, socializing and relaxing in the space, and it certainly provides a uniquely GW experience,” said Ms. Haaga.