Inside a new college dining facility seeking to shine despite COVID-19

Earlier this school year, Cal Poly debuted a new foodservice venue on its San Luis Obispo, Calif., campus. Though the 35,400-square-foot Vista Grande Dining Complex, which contains seven eateries and a market, was designed to foster interaction and collaboration, some of those elements have been on hold amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Here’s a peek inside.

Underscoring its aim to spur interaction, each concept at Vista Grande was designed exhibition-style so diners can watch food being prepared, something the facility plans to bring back post-pandemic. “The complex brings a leading dining experience to campus and launches the university’s renewed focus on the student experience with an adaptable space to dine, socialize and study,” Cody VanDorn, CEO of Cal Poly Corporation, the auxiliary group of which campus dining services is a part, said in a statement.

Balance Cafe offers items for students with dietary restrictions, serving up dishes that abstain from the eight most-common allergens. To avoid cross-contamination, this concept has a separate kitchen, cold storage area, dishwasher and servingware.

The facility’s Hearth station menus pizzas, pastas and hot sandwiches and is home to two stone-fired pizza ovens.

Dishes offered at Noodles include tortellini, ramen, jambalaya and more.

Grand Ave Market sells to-go items and heat-and-eat dishes, as well as a variety of kosher-certified options.

Indoor dining is not currently offered due to COVID-19, but Grande Vista hosts areas of outdoor seating, crafted with amenities such as fireplaces and game tables.