By Megan Walsh, Staff Writer
The wait for Dutch Treats and Hofstra USA is finally over: Dutch Treats opened last Thursday, Sept. 8, and as of Wednesday, Sept. 14, Hofstra USA is now open as well.
The delayed opening was due to renovations to both establishments, according to the Dean of Students, Peter J. Libman. Libman stated that the renovations were in the ballpark of about two million dollars, and are a “joint venture with Lackman,” as part of their contract stipulates they have to make improvements using the money from some of their profits.
The endeavor was not, however, done without research. Libman stated that discussions were held with the “RAs, Greek Presidents,” and other Hofstra groups. “They overwhelmingly said Hofstra USA would be a much more preferable place to focus our energies on,” said Libman.
Thus, when it came time to renovate, Hofstra USA was greatly revamped. “The Hofstra USA complex now features a restaurant and entertainment center in the upper level called Hof USA; this was formerly known as Kate & Willie’s,” said Laura Musa, Marketing Manager for Lackmann Culinary Services. “The space was completely renovated with new flooring, furniture, wallpaper, and décor. There is now a game room that offers a racing simulator, pinball, Dance Dance Revolution and a multi-game arcade system, all of which are free for students. In the bar area students can utilize the Internet jukebox, or play pool and foosball. The new menu will feature a large variety of appetizers, salads, sandwiches, burgers, pasta, breakfast-at-night, and desserts. We have also extended the hours and will be open Sunday through Thursday from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m., and on Fridays and Saturdays from 5 p.m. – 4 a.m.”
Dutch Treats is also far from untouched. According to Musa, “at Dutch Treats, we put an addition on the back of the building that almost doubled the store’s footprint. We’ve added drink coolers to allow for a larger variety of bottled beverages. We have also added Au Bon Pain soups and an increased variety of grab-and-go salads, sandwiches and snacks. The location is open 24/7 and still offers convenience and grocery items, and a full-service deli and chopped salad counter. Additionally, the entire store has been remodeled with a fresh, modern and welcoming décor.”
Both Musa and Libman seemed excited about the new venture. Libman stated, “Hofstra USA is going to provide a venue on campus we haven’t had before, where students can relax and socialize and hang out late into the evenings.” Musa also said, “We are very happy with the results of the renovations. I believe that the new locations will become a destination for Hofstra students for years to come.”
Musa also assured that the grand opening of Hofstra USA will take place on Sep. 16, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. for Hofstra students.
Hofstra USA now features a free arcade for students. (Rachel Dennuy/The Chronicle)
