The 459 Commons officially reopened on Aug. 17 after being closed five months for renovation.

The dining hall has been revived with an open-concept floor plan and more dining options than before, aiming to immerse students in Louisiana culture and cuisine.

“I am most excited about the renovations being done,” Senior Executive Chef Jon Jackson said, “because it will be a unique blend of regional cuisine and international flavors that I think the students will love.”

The names of each food station are tied to Louisiana culture. For example, “Sweet Lagniappe,” the dessert station, features classic dishes such as beignets, king cake and Louisiana strawberry shortcake.

“I know there was not enough space to accommodate the amount of students that go in there,” accounting sophomore Sa’Naiya Williams said. “So I am happy that there’s more space for us.”

The location has also opened a new teaching kitchen. This station will host events throughout the year to educate students on the art of cooking Louisiana classics and international cuisine.

The dining hall offers breakfast from 7–10:30 a.m., lunch from 10:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m., a late lunch from 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. and dinner 4:30 – 8:00 p.m. The 459 Commons will close at 7 p.m. on Fridays.