Every student at Winona State is unique. And although we may have different backgrounds and future aspirations, there’s one thing that always brings us together—food!
We all speak the same language when we’re eating, and it’s important to know your dining options on campus. Whether you’re a seasoned upperclassman looking for a reminder or an incoming Warrior craving to know what’s on the menu, check out this all-inclusive grub guide.
The 411 on Kryzsko Kash & Meal Plans
Before I begin with the chow breakdown, you need to first understand meal plans.
Every student living on campus must have a meal plan. This is because your meal plan is tied to your housing selection. You can choose a seven, 10, 14 or 19 meal plan. These numbers correspond to the number of meals you get per week in the WSU Campus cafeteria. Just swipe your student ID, and you’re good to go!
With each meal plan, there’s an included amount of Dining Dollars (AKA our on-campus currency). This allows you to eat at other WSU dining locations, such as the lower level of Kryzsko Commons and the library. The rule of thumb is, you’ll have more Dining Dollars to spend if you choose a lower meal plan.
Some final key points:
- If you decide you want more or fewer meals per week, you can change your meal plan. You can increase your meal plan at any time. However, the deadline to request a lower meal plan is on the 10th day of classes each semester. To do this, fill out a form at the Housing & Residence Life Office (it’s super easy!).
- Any unused meal swipes will not roll over into the next week. This is something to keep in mind when choosing your meal plan.
- Any unused Dining Dollars will roll over into the next semester, but not the next school year. You can also purchase more Dining Dollars in $50 increments if you run out.
- Upperclassmen living off campus can sign up for a Block Plan. This includes 75 cafeteria meals and an amount of Dining Dollars of your choice. How much Dining Dollars you want—from zero to $250—will dictate the cost of the plan.
- In case you misplace your student ID, don’t worry! All places on campus that accept Dining Dollars also accept regular cash, credit or debit card.
Cafeteria Dining: All-You-Can-Eat Buffet
Yep, you read that right. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or multiple rounds, there’s no judging!
Enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet at the WSU Campus cafeteria. The dining center has a variety of yummy options for any foodie who walks in. Take a virtual tour of the Jack Kane Dining Center to explore your options:
Entrance
Hand your student ID to the Chartwells worker behind the counter, and with one swipe you’re ready to dine buffet-style.
The Grill
Come to the caf in the morning and craft a breakfast sandwich or omelet at the center hot griddle station.
Visit this same station later on for lunch and dinner options, like burgers and fries.
My Pantry
Wish you had some toast on the side, or a bagel for breakfast?
We’ve got a fully-equipped toasting station just for you. There’s a plethora of spreads (including PB&J and Nutella), and even fresh waffle batter in the morning.
And no matter the time of day, sometimes cereal is all you need. Good thing there’s a ton of rotating cereal options offered all day.
The Deli
Build your own sandwich at the corner station, whether you’re hungry for a grilled cheese or a sub. Choose from a variety of meats, cheeses and other toppings. Toast your creation for an extra crunch.
G8 & Rooted
Students with food allergies or dietary restrictions (like vegetarian and vegan) have a station dedicated just for them with daily rotating meals.
Homestyle, Cucina & Innovate
There’s a station for every Warrior, whether you want home-cooked meals (like mashed potatoes and gravy), pizza and pasta, or stir fry.
Beyond the Greens
Finish off with a light salad or pack your plate with lots of greens to have a healthy fill-up.
Opposite the salad bar is (ironically) the dessert bar with cookies, brownies and cake slices. We’ve also got a soft-serve ice cream machine and a few other ice cream flavors on hand that are rotated every day. Talk about scoops ahoy!
Visit the center console for silverware and additional condiments needed to complete your dish.
Beverages & Dish Return
Quench your thirst with our wide selection of drinks, from pop to milk (including soy products) to juice and fruit-infused water.
Then when your belly is full, dispose of your cups and plates (we won’t judge how many!) at the conveyor belt near the entrance.
So, ready to dine at Jack Kane?
On-the-Go Grub at Zane’s
Zane’s is located on the lower level of Kryzsko Commons near the Student Union. Zane’s was formerly named “The Smaug,” which some upperclassmen still refer to it as.
There are a variety of food stations at Zane’s, including a mini grocery store called Market 160 in the center. This is great for when you don’t have time to run errands—and convenient, too!
Take a virtual tour of Zane’s to see what’s cooking:
Sono, Sushi Do & Market 160
Celebrate Latin American cuisine at Sono by building a burrito bowl, or choose from a variety of freshly rolled sushi at Sushi Do.
In a pinch for some groceries? Head to Market 160 in the center for everyday essentials, from milk to boxed goods.
Freshens
Cool down with a shake from Freshens made to your liking, whether you’re in the mood for an energy kick or some protein. You can also order fro-yo and ice cream if you’ve got a sweet tooth.
Mondo & Build
Build your own yummy sandwich at Mondo or create a delicious pizza at Build. Both stations offer various types of meats, cheeses and other toppings.
Starbucks & Grill Nation
Need a caffeine boost? Stop by the Starbucks counter to feed your inner coffee addict. Or select from a wide range of American “bar food” options at Grill Nation, like chicken tenders and french fries.
Panda Express
Take a trip to China and craft a mouthwatering meal from Panda Express. Don’t forget a fortune cookie!
Don’t forget to bring your student ID and keep track of your Dining Dollars balance. Also, bookmark this helpful webpage to remember when certain stations close because they’re not all on the same schedule.
Library Study Munchies
Need a caffeine boost to help you get through your study sesh? Visit the Caribou Coffee & Einstein Bagels Co. built-in at the Darrell Krueger Library. Order from a variety of drinks (like coffee and smoothies), bagels and other snacks just the way you like them.
This pitstop is the best when you need to buckle down and prepare for an upcoming assignment or exam. If you happen to be on your way to Somsen Hall, there’s a cafe just like this one (only a little bit smaller!).
Community Options
If you want to eat out and are in the mood to explore off campus, there are lots of options. From coffee shops to restaurants and bakeries, there’s something in the Winona area calling your name. Heck, we’ve even got a few ice cream parlors up our sleeve, too!
I think I hear the dinner bell ringing—time to eat!
