Everyday will feel like Sunday for some students as the University of Memphis replaces the Tiger Den’s Chick-Fil-A with a Steak ‘n Shake this semester.
The diner-themed restaurant famous for steak burgers and milkshakes will open in late September, according to University officials.
The decision was based upon annual dining style surveys and focus groups, which concluded that more variety was needed at the U of M, according to University Marketing Manager Matthew Perry.
“We believe Steak N’ Shake’s famous steak burgers and fresh milkshakes will be a great addition to the campus community,” Perry said.
The University filed a building permit valued at $326,000 to convert the restaurants from chicken to beef. Zachary Brown, a junior biology major at the U of M, looks forward to the diner’s opening, and prefers Steak ‘n Shake to Chick-fil-A.
“I think it makes sense,” Brown said. “There is already another Chick-fil-A on campus. There aren’t many healthy options on campus anyways, so they might as well throw milkshakes into the mix.”
Some students, however, believe the University should introduce healthier food options to students — a frustration that has been shared around campus for many semesters, according to junior philosophy major Anne Chandler.
“Milkshakes are appealing, but there should definitely be some healthier options for students,” Chandler said. “Being able to be healthy on campus should at least be more of an option, instead of everything being fried. It’s exciting that there’s something shiny and new, but I would prefer something like Panera Bread or anything different.”
Steak ‘n Shake doesn’t mark the only new opening this fall. Earlier this year, the University announced that a Panda Express would come to the University Center. A $501,000 building permit was filed for construction.
A single Chick-fil-A will remain in the University Center.
The Chick-fil-A stand in the Tiger Den is currently being replaced with Steak ‘n Shake for the fall semester. According to the Food Services office at the U of M, students should expect the grand opening in September.
