The BYU-Idaho Food Services department renamed Soleil to the Backroads Soda Stop on Oct. 30, adding a fourth destination for students looking to grab a quick bite and drink on campus.

Students lined the halls to get a glimpse of the grand opening, where an open mic, spin the wheel and free giveaways celebrated the new title.  

The soda stop is located in the Hyrum Manwaring Center across from the Strike Zone Bowling Alley and joins three established locations: Crossroads, the main campus food court; Backroads Grab & Go, a convenience-style market; and Off Road Grill, a campus-based food truck.

According to the BYUI Food Services website, Backroads Soda Stop features crepes, smoothies, soda, pizza, bagels and other snacks designed for fast service between classes.

“With everything the BackRoads soda shop has to offer, we, as BYUI, wanted to create a more stop and go shop,” said Food Services Associate Director Justin Zonts.

The soda stop was thought of roughly three years prior to its actualization.

“It was a long time coming; now that it's here, it's offering more,”  Zonts said.

A unifying brand

The expansion reflects BYU–Idaho’s effort to create a more cohesive dining identity.

The “roads” theme — Crossroads, Backroads, Off Road — unites all campus food locations under a single brand, making it easier for students to recognize and navigate their options.

“As someone who is new to the campus, the 'Roads' are very helpful for in-between class munches,” said Kaylee Allred, a freshman studying exercise physiology. “I think it's really unique that the campus has a brand to their food shop, I don’t think I would see this at any other college campus.” 

Each location offers something different:

• Crossroads: The main multi-vendor food court offering meals and seating.

• Backroads Grab & Go: A convenience market for snacks and bottled drinks.

• Off Road Grill: A grill-style option for burgers and sandwiches, located in a food truck near the STC. 

• Backroads Soda Stop: The newest addition, specializing in customizable drinks and light foods.

Student response

Students say the addition of the soda shop brings more variety and quicker service during busy class hours. Many appreciate the spot for socializing and studying while enjoying a soda or smoothie.

“It’s like a little gem,” said Moriah Garrett, a junior studying horticulture.

With hours running from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., students crowd the shop, creating lines that reach all the way to the New Student Mentor office around the corner.

“It's worth the wait and my money,"  Garrett said.

With self-help kiosks, students are able to walk up to the shop and see the menu at their own pace. 

“Ordering in front of someone can get nerve-racking,” said Amelia Wilson, a sophomore studying illustration. “Their kiosks, in my opinion, create a very welcoming community for everyone.” 

Looking ahead

The renaming to the Backroads Soda Stop underscores a larger shift in BYU–Idaho’s dining approach — one that prioritizes convenience, community and consistency.

In business, rebranding to unify a couple of shops, like the Crossroads, Backroads and Off Road Grill, is a necessity.

“Backroads Soda Stop is an additional stop that will bring bigger and better things,” Zonts said. 

With its fresh menu and familiar “roads” branding, Backroads Soda Stop aims to be more than another food stop — it’s a symbol of how BYU–Idaho continues to adapt to student needs.