Those passing through the University of Nebraska-Lincoln student union on city campus will see a redesigned food court and some new dining options this fall.
NU announced Monday the renovation project will grow the number of restaurants to five, with two newcomers: Sossy, a slow-cooked barbecue kitchen, and Choolaah, the first Indian-inspired food option at the Nebraska Union. The revamped space is set to open early in the fall 2026 semester.
“This isn’t just about adding restaurants,” said Lucas Novotny, executive director of housing, dining and the Nebraska unions. “It’s about creating a more intentional dining experience where each concept brings something different to the table.”
Time honored, campus staples will remain, including Imperial Palace, Valentino’s and Husker Heroes. But each space will sport a new look, updated to fit the redesigned space. The new food court will also expand seating and increase mobile ordering and pickup options to ease congestion during peak hours.
The renovation will also mark a shift from a vendor-operated food court to a university-operated model. The change gives university dining leaders more control over menus, sourcing and service.
“This transition to a dining commons allows us to be more intentional about how we serve students,” Novotny said. “We’re expanding options, introducing new flavors and continuing to evolve a space that reflects how students want to eat and spend time on campus.”
Coinciding with the renovation project, the union’s Chick-fil-A location has expanded into a larger space and Steak ‘n Shake has closed. The University says its evaluating future opportunities for Steak ‘n Shake’s return elsewhere on campus.
Construction will begin after the 2026 spring semester.
Rendering by Alley Poyner Macchietto Architecture