Washington State University Dining Services is excited to announce renovations at Southside Café, also known as the Rotunda. This project, starting with the first of three phases, will modernize one of the campus’s busiest dining spots. The café serves around 2,500 students daily and has provided over 258,000 meals in just one fall semester.
Construction kicked off during spring break and will continue throughout the summer while the café is closed. The goal is to reopen in fall 2026 with a fresh look and better services. However, this renovation is more than just a facelift. The café, which has been around since 1961, needs important upgrades to its infrastructure to keep up with today’s dining needs.
“This project is about serious investments in our operations,” said Jason Butcherite, the director of Dining Services. “We want to serve students better and adapt to future dining trends.”
Phase one will bring several key changes. Key service areas will be relocated to help improve the flow of diners. A new pizza station will be at the center, alongside areas for salads, sandwiches, breakfast options, and desserts. The dishwashing section is being moved closer to the main kitchen, and restrooms will also be updated. Additionally, a new Latin cuisine station is being introduced based on student feedback.
Student input played a critical role in shaping these renovations. Surveys and focus groups helped Dining Services understand what students want from their dining experience. “Our research showed us how to reorganize the space to benefit students,” Butcherite added. The updated layout aims to reduce congestion during peak hours, making meals more enjoyable for everyone.
The last major update to the café happened in 2007. Back then, the Rotunda was a part of a larger development project that included Gannon and Goldsworthy Halls. Today, many students like Junior Marissa Williams, who serves as executive president of the Residence Hall Association, are eager to see the changes. “Southside is a key hangout for students,” she noted. “These updates will make it more functional and appealing.”
In addition to physical renovations, Dining Services is launching a new inventory and menu management system called Jamix in July. This system will streamline how food information is shared, helping students access nutrition and allergen details more easily. Butcherite said this will let staff devote more time to engaging with students and improving their dining experience.
Finally, students can look forward to a new coffee shop, Union Brew, set to open in the Compton Union Building by fall 2026. This spot will offer coffee and grab-and-go meals, filling a definite need among students and staff.
These renovations aim to create a modern, efficient dining experience that aligns with the needs of today’s students. With updates both front-of-house and behind-the-scenes, Washington State University is taking significant steps to enhance campus dining.
