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WOW is one of two restaurants on campus originally scheduled to open at the beginning of the fall semester, but faced construction and permit setbacks. Carvings - a sandwich and buffet restaurant similar to the Gallery Cafe in Ivory Tower - is expected to open later this month in Potomac House. The indefinite opening of the food venue is due to contractor-related delays and changes, said Nancy Haaga, director of Campus Support Services.
The original September opening of WOW was delayed because of the decision to expand seating, Haaga had previously said. Construction of WOW was completed in November, but obtaining operating permits and training the staff further delayed its opening.
WOW expanded into an area previously occupied by six pool tables. The tables were moved into the space formerly occupied by the Hippodrome arcade, which featured ping-pong tables, an air-hockey table and video games.
In addition to offering wings and burgers, WOW has applied for a beer and wine liquor license. Haaga said once the license is granted, students of legal drinking age would wear a wristband to prevent those who are underage from drinking. While both WOW and Carvings will allow students to pay with their GWorld, WOW will require students to use another form of payment for alcohol in accordance with GWorld policy.
Casey Pond, director of the Student Association's Dining Services Commission, said he thought the delays were worth it.
"It's much more important that a provider of services to students on campus provides something of quality rather than something mediocre meeting a deadline," Pond, a junior, said. "If they try to open something that isn't high quality, students won't be likely to revisit once changes are made."
Pond, who advises dining officials of student wishes, said he is looking forward to the addition of alcoholic beverages to WOW's menu.
