Sidelines Pub in Driscoll Underground has been revamped to meet the needs of the increased number of students in the area.  

Many students view it as an improvement, considering the old pub was known for its slow service, just-okay food, aging look and failing business plan.

The new pub sets its eyes on fixing the problems of the past and adapting to the new demands.

John Nichols, who spear-headed the project, said DU put over $100,000 into the new approach.

Nichols said the move was necessary because “the business was down and it really needed a fresh start.”

The area was modified to be more open, and the old booths were replaced by  soft chairs and small couches.

“They’ve really opened the place up for a more communal experience,” said John Boswell, a journalism major who frequents the pub.

The food has also been revamped. There is now a coffee area, which has a crépe bar that will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday-Friday.

Additions to the menu include the grilled portabello napoleon sandwich, the beer brat torpedo sandwich and more.

The pub also has a new service called “breakfast all day,” featuring eggs cooked to order, chicken and waffles, Belgian waffles, the Boone omelet and a “big fat sticky bun.”

“The food seems much better, especially the quality,” said Josh Wilson, a junior political science major.

Joe Zemla, the general manager for Sodexo, said the restaurant “revamped the menu to increase the quality of the food and the speed.”

“We wanted food that was fast, not fast-food,” Zemla said.

A new station between the coffee area and the pub – the  “Quick Zone,” – allows patrons to quickly purchase cold food without a wait-time.

The students have already responded well to the change, Zemla said. 

“Usually 2 p.m. would be a slow time, but more people are coming in to eat and just hang out with friends,” he said.

Zemla also said that past successes like student life-coordinated events such as “open-mic night” and “late night at the pub” will continue.

The Sidelines Pub area will be open 24 hours a day; however the kitchen and drinks will shutdown at 11 p.m.