From sandwiches to superfoods, East Tennessee State University students now have two new spots to grab a bite as Jimmy John’s and Blended Pedaler celebrated their grand openings last week.  

It’s just one more example of what makes life in the region so exciting and full of flavor.

Thursday’s celebration welcoming Jimmy John’s to the first floor of the D.P. Culp Student Center was led by Senior Vice President for Student Life and Enrollment Dr. Joe Sherlin, Student Government Association (SGA) Vice President for Finance and Administration Macy Miller, and ETSU’s beloved mascot Bucky. Attendees at the grand opening enjoyed a ribbon-cutting, Jimmy John’s backpack buttons and a sampling of the sandwiches the restaurant will offer.  

Blended Pedaler’s opening took place on Friday, and festivities were led by Sherlin, SGA President Shelby Koerten, Bucky and Lauren Griffin, owner of Blended Pedaler.  

Members of the SGA, students, faculty and staff attended the ribbon-cutting, enjoying acai bowls, music and photo opportunities with Bucky.

Koerten spoke about what it means for students to have two new dining options on ETSU’s campus.  

“Students have asked for quick and healthy dining options on campus,” said Koerten. “Now, with the addition of Jimmy John’s and Blended Pedaler, students can enjoy subs and smoothies with convenience. The SGA has worked hard to listen to the student body, and it is rewarding to see their requests come to fruition.”

Griffin was overwhelmed with the support that Blended Pedaler received on opening day.  

“It means the world to us to open a location on campus,” said Griffin. “We started out with one location and have seen tremendous success. This location now makes our sixth storefront, and I cannot even put into words what it means for us to open this location.”  

Blended Pedaler will have its full menu available for students, which includes favorites such as superfood bowls, smoothies, loaded toast and protein bites.

In addition to the two new eateries, ETSU offers an array of dining options on campus and is located minutes away from local and regional favorites. For a list of on-campus dining locations and operating hours, visit https://etsu.sodexomyway.com/dining-near-me.