Whether you enjoyed a Y Sparkle or a 6-inch sub during your time at BYU, the Cougareat has long been a special place for students, guests, and alumni. “It’s a place where memories and relationships have been created,” says Joseph L. Tiapson (BGS ’19), director of retail operations for Dining Services. While chains like Chick-fil-A and Subway are still staples, Dining Services is constantly adding new concepts at the Cougareat and beyond. Here are just three of the newer eateries on campus.
Blue Sushi
Some might remember when Cougar Express sold “blue sushi” back in 2012. The rolls were popular but ultimately fizzled out due to consistency concerns. “We wanted a sushi that was fresh and high quality,” says Timothy J. Ipson (BS ’08), Cougareat general manager. With the new Cougareat storefront, guests now have “the experience of seeing freshly rolled sushi and knowing it was made by hand.” Headlined by the tempura shrimp-centered Crunchy Dragon Roll, the new Blue Sushi opened February 2024.
Y Mountain BBQ
“Dining Services recently got a smoker,” Ipson explains, “and we were looking for [more] ways to use it.” After “a tremendous amount of collaboration,” Dining Services chefs came up with Y Mountain BBQ, which focuses on homestyle recipes like mac and cheese and pulled pork. “It was fun to see the recipes all come together,” Tiapson says. With brisket as its crowning achievement, the barbecue opened October 2024 after a successful Education Week test run.
Brigham’s Wagon
Sports-goers might recognize Brigham’s Wagon from its concessions work at big games. Now it’s also a food truck that travels campus, bringing breakfast and lunch to students. “We have a dual purpose,” explains Mark C. Davies, director of Student Dining Services. “We nourish the campus community here, . . . but as we get out to these community events, we’re getting BYU’s name out there.” With its expanding menu, including gourmet burgers and event-exclusive churro fries, Brigham’s Wagon launched in July 2024.
