Quinnipiac University’s student-run restaurant, On the Rocks Pub & Grill, launched a new and improved menu ahead of the spring semester, which includes different appetizers, more diverse entrees and a fresh carousel of desserts.
The establishment — open since 2020 — is located on Quinnipiac’s York Hill Campus in the Rocky Top Student Center. It’s open to students and faculty on Wednesday and Thursday from 6-10 p.m. and accepts meal points, Q-cash and credit cards.
Management and Operations MBA candidate Mike Whipple, who is also an On the Rocks manager and executive chef, and Chef Stephen J. Ross collaborated to design the new menu with focus on more varied options.
“I’m glad to see some new items on the menu, especially some new types of things that we never had before,” Brynn Pinkes, On the Rocks manager and senior 3+1 media studies major, said.
On the Rocks’ typical menu features classic pub favorites, including nachos, burgers and mac ‘n’ cheese, alongside a selection of alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, perfect for a casual night out.
Some of the updated items include a spinach and artichoke dip appetizer with homemade chips, a southwest bowl and a homemade brownie sundae. Additional wines, beers and cocktails are also available for customers 21 and over.
“They added good stuff,” Thomas Tate, junior industrial engineering major, said. “I really like The Bank, the panini.”
The Bank is a crispy chicken handheld topped with mozzarella, tomato, arugala and housemade hot honey.
On the Rocks is popular with students for frequent events such as bingo, karaoke and trivia nights, and houses two pool tables and a shuffleboard. Students of age can sip $3 Miller Lites on Thursdays and watch live sporting events at the bar.
“I think having popcorn when you first come and sit is awesome,” Norah Munn, junior nursing major, said. “I like the atmosphere and the music. I also find when they have events, that’s like a really cool way to also be involved while having dinner.”