Terraza new hot spot on campus

La Gran Terraza opened its doors to the community on Sunday for its premiere brunch, bringing in a crowd of over 150 patrons. The new restaurant, located in the University Center where the cafeteria previously was, features a lounge area called O’Toole’s that will serve beer and wine, a grand dining room and a terrace eating area.
The opening proved successful, with more than 60 diners over the expected 100 attending brunch. There are some kinks to work out, as problems with the operating systems significantly slowed down processes between servers and the kitchen, prolonging the time food took to reach the tables, but the staff is working to improve the situation as soon as possible.
The atmosphere is warm and ornate. O’Toole’s features lounge chairs next to a fireplace, two large televisions for your viewing pleasure and a handsome bar area, complete with bar stools. The grand dining room and terrace both feature attractive and comfortable furniture, including heaters and umbrellas outside. It maintains the overall atmosphere of the university while integrating the mood of an upscale restaurant.
The night before the grand opening, the Founder’s Gala celebrating the university’s 60th anniversary was held in the space, which raised more than double the goal of $250,000 for student scholarships. Monday’s patrons were largely the student population, mostly graduate students, enjoying tapas and drinks while watching Monday Night Football. The bar area also filled up with students on Tuesday night enjoying the new addition to campus life.
Senior Ryan Conly said, “It’s a great atmosphere where upperclassmen can gather and hang out,” while senior Mark Gallinaro said, “It’s a classier Pennant.”
    Vice President for Student Affairs Carmen Vazquez said that, “overall it was a successful opening. The original intent [of the Hahn University Center remodeling]… was to enhance the opportunity for community on campus, and I certainly see that all of the spaces offer comfortable and fun places for [the community] to gather.”
    The restaurant is open to students, faculty, staff and friends of the university. It will be open for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and dinner 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Mon. through Fri., with happy hour tentatively weekdays from 5 to 7 p.m. It is also open for Sunday brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., during which the restaurant hopes to attract the church crowd from the Immaculata.