NWACC Expands its Food Options

A new NorthWest Arkansas Community College food court has school officials hoping the selection appeals to students. features Chick-Fil-A, Blaze’N Burrito and Silver Joe’s.

Christopher Strok, director of store operations for Silver Joe’s, a coffee shop, said he’s excited to be part of the trio of restaurants that also includes Blaze’N Burrito and Chick-Fil-A.

“Being from a local coffee company, we were really excited about the opportunity to really get involved with NWACC and to be a part of what’s going on with the students,” Strok said.

Students said it’s convenient to be able to grab breakfast, lunch and snacks without leaving the campus.

“Just staying on campus and not having to waste time driving back and forth” appeals to students like Hayden Curien, pre-med student.

Students began eating at the new food court about a week ago, and vendors said it’s been a success.

“Our lunch has been overwhelming at times, but we’ve been doing well. It seems to be the spot,” said Niki Lysakowski, manager of Blaze’N Burrito.

The food court is not only convenient for students, faculty and staff on campus. Anyone can grab a bite to eat with NWACC’s 15-minute “food court to-go parking.”

“If someone works at an office or a business nearby, they can certainly come here and get some lunch as well,” said Steven Hinds, NWACC’s executive director of public relations and marketing.

Hinds said NWACC received feedback from students who wanted more food options and said this also benefits the college.

“Our students will continue to tell their friends that not only can you get a good education here and you have caring faculty, but that we have food options,” Hinds said.

“In addition they are supporting the college as well,” he said.

Blaze’N Burrito and Silver Joe’s are open until 2p.m., and Chick Fil-A is open until 3p.m.. However, all three are exploring the possibility of extending their hours.

“We are open at 7a.m. but that ending hour is still kind of up in the air. I think for all three of us, we are trying to feel out the student traffic and class schedule,” Strok said.

NWACC officials said they’re expanding the food court’s seating area both inside and outside to meet the new demand.

The food court is open Monday through Friday.