The Crossroads, inside the Hyrum Manwaring Student Center, remains the heart of student dining at BYU–Idaho, offering a mix of comfort food, quick snacks and social connection.
With new hours, happy hour discounts and small updates across multiple food stations, students have plenty of reasons to check it out this semester and semesters to come.
A look inside The Crossroads
The Crossroads is home to several dining options, including but not limited to Chick-fil-A, Caliente, Teton Grill, The Garden, Simply Sushi and The Crossroads Grill. Each spot offers something different — from tacos and burgers to smoothies and sushi rolls.
“We, in a business, try to adapt to every need and want,” said Justin Zonts, BYU-Idaho Food Services associate director. “A lot of thought and work goes into creating a place like this.”
The area has become a central hub for students looking for variety and convenience between classes. Tables fill quickly during lunchtime, especially between 11 A.M. - 3 P.M.
Updated hours and closures
This semester, The Crossroads operates from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Most venues close for Tuesday devotionals and campus forums so staff and students can attend, reopening shortly afterward.
Weekend hours vary, with limited options open on Saturday and full closure on Sunday, in line with university policy. Students are encouraged to check the updated schedule posted outside The Crossroads or on the BYU–Idaho Food Services website.
Happy Hour and student deals
One of the biggest updates this semester is the introduction of a Happy Hour discount. Between 4-5 p.m. Monday-Friday, students can enjoy 50% off at selected venues.
The new promotion aims to encourage students to visit outside the lunchtime rush.
“I normally have classes later in the day; this new deal is great,” said Holly Jensen, a freshman studying marriage and family. “It’s nice to grab a drink or snack for cheaper before my classes.”
Social media insight
The Crossroads’ Instagram provides updates, specials and event announcements.
“Say Hello to your new obsession,” stated @byuicrossorads on Instagram.
Students can follow @byuicrossroads for the latest deals and updates.
Outcome: What the updates mean
This semester’s updates have been in an effort to create a more dynamic and student-friendly Crossroads experience by attempting to have more options, offer better deals and extend hours to match campus activity.
“The students know what they want, and we see that with the outcome,” said Camille Vergas, a cashier. “It’s better and will only get better from there.”
Feedback so far shows that students appreciate the variety, the Happy Hour discounts and the extension of business hours. Food Services plans to monitor student reactions and may continue expanding menu options, hours or specials.
“Every day is a new deal, a new thing to try,” said Emma Thunell, a junior studying accounting. “I wonder every day what the new deal is.”
Student view: Why does it matter?
For many, The Crossroads is more than just a food court — it’s part of daily campus life. Students say the updates have brought a mix of excitement and adjustment.
“Before, I just went to The Crossroads to study or socialize,” said Rita Scheon, a sophomore studying communications, digital and social media. “But now I usually stop by between classes because it’s cheaper.”
Others say they have noticed the changes in pricing as increases rather than decreases, but still appreciate the convenience.
“Their many choices make it hard to think of other places to eat,” said Miriam Leahy, a sophomore studying illustration. “But some things cost a little more now though, but it’s still easier than leaving campus to eat.”
The new happy hour and menu variety seem to have encouraged more traffic during slower times of day.
“I try not to go to The Crossroads after devotionals — it's too crowded,” said Jensen. “It’s busier after devotionals and lunchtime now, especially near Teton Grill and Oriental Dragon.”
Overall, students agree that The Crossroads updates have improved the dining experience — especially for those looking for quick bites or a place to catch up on assignments.
Location: Manwaring Center, main floor
Hours: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Popular spots: Chick-fil-A, Caliente, Teton Grill, Simply Sushi, The Garden and Oriental Dragon
Deals: Happy Hour 4 p.m. | Daily specials at select vendors
0 Comments