Mica Magday

Students crowd the register to order from Flenoid.

From 8:45 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Jan. 21, Dora’s provided food for all students who are craving a late-night meal or may miss the regular dining hall hours, which end at 8:30 during the week and 6:30 on the weekends.  

“The inspiration pretty much is to get the students in [the dining hall],” said Texas Wesleyan Executive Chef Bruce Piotrowski. “I remember going to school. Late at night, what we wanted was wings or maybe a slice of pizza, something quick.” 

The late-night menu consisted of sliders, chicken wings and an assortment of fries. These pop-ups would feature food that students won’t normally see during regular dining hall hours.  

“We do have a limited menu,” said Johnna Flenoid, director of dining services at Texas Wesleyan. “We were like, ‘let’s at the things that they’re leaving for, and hopefully they’ll stay here.’”

Sophomore exercise science major Lela Conley attended the event with her friends and agreed that these hours were convenient and necessary for students.  

“I think this is smart,” she said. “Now, my friends here don’t have to go out to McDonald’s every night.” 

Piotrowski emphasized that he tried to create a menu that would make staying on campus instead of leaving for takeout worthwhile. 

“Price-wise, I try to keep it where I’m not going to hurt the students. I mean, you go to Wingstop, you can’t get a six-piece [and fries] for that price($8.49),” he said. 

Piotrowski encouraged student feedback on the event and menu, which they plan to change at each pop-up. 

“It’d be cool to see the menu switch up,” Conley said. “Nachos would be a good idea.” 

While the kitchen is open, the students must eat their to-go dinner outside the dining hall. 

For the next announcement of the next late-night pop up, follow @txwesdining on Instagram. For now, they will choose a random day each week or so to host the pop-up and roll out more days next semester, depending on demand this spring.  The kitchen had 22 orders on its first night, surpassing Flenoid’s expectations. 

For those on campus during the winter storm from Jan. 24 to 25, Dora’s will be providing a similar to-go meal service. Brunch will be available 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and dinner will be served from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Make sure to check their site and Instagram for more details and updates.