Mason Nation, Meet Cereal Nation

Mason Dining Executive Chef Peter Schoebel helps position cereal dispensers in the Johnson Center Wednesday .(Daniel McEnrue) 
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An extensive cereal bar began operation Wednesday alongside Freshens in the Johnson Center. The venue, aptly titled Cereal Nation, will feature an assortment of popular cereal brands and a menu of toppings you could find on an ice cream sundae.

“The cereal bar has always been one of the most popular options at Southside, so we wanted to bring that here to the JC,” said William Fry, Director of Retail Operations. “With one meal swipe, students will be able to purchase their choice of a cereal, topping, and milk option. Even soy milk will be offered.”

The menu options exceed what was has been offered at Southside. The selection of cereals includes Cheerios, Total, Lucky Charms, and Golden Grahams, among others. Any choice of cereal can be topped with an array of toppings, from marshmallows and chocolate syrup to fresh fruit and coconut.

“The hope is that being a self-serve cereal bar, it will serve as a healthier option for students,” continued Fry. “But we also want to appeal to everyone. If a student wants to, they can come in and get Raisin Bran cereal, with fresh banana and skim milk,” Fry explained. “Of course, they can also come in and get cocoa puffs with marshmallow and whole milk.”

When asked if she would eat at Cereal Nation, over other dining options in the JC, sophomore Deepika Putla affirmed the healthier option. “Yes, I would. Because it is healthier and will make you more fit, you know?” When asked what her favorite cereal was, Putla wasted no time answering, “Cocoa Puffs.”

Healthy or not, there are many ways to experience cereal at Cereal Nation. Cereal enthusiasts can try combos like Lucky Smore’s which blends equal amounts of Golden Grahams, Cocoa Puffs, and Lucky Charms. Or, peanut butter and jelly lover’s can test the claim of Better Than PB & J, which combines Reese’s Puffs with Fruity Cheerios.

According to Fry, the latest addition of Cereal Nation is part of an effort to expand breakfast options in the JC. The venue is scheduled to operate under the same schedule as Freshens: Monday through Thursday, 8a.m.- 11p.m., 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. on Friday, and 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

Elsewhere in the JC, said Fry, Mason Dining plans to expand the breakfast sandwich menu at Sub Connection.