The K-State Student Union has opened a new restaurant on the ground-floor level where Union Station served students for years.
    Salsarita's Fresh Cantina, which opened on Aug. 19, offers students a different type of dining experience in the Union. Similar to Chipotle, Salsarita's prepares each item directly in front of customers using fresh ingredients.
    All entrées are cooked to order and nothing is pre-made. The menu includes a variety of Mexican favorites like quesadillas, taco salads, nachos and burritos.
    Each entrée item comes in two sizes — small or large. Customers can also purchase side items, like chips with queso, salsa or guacamole.
    "I think Salsarita's will be successful in the Union because it fills a niche," said Tina Griffin, food service director for the Union. "So far it has been very well-received."
    Despite only being open a week, Griffin said she expects the restaurant to complement the rest of the food options in the Union.
    "We will know for sure once school gets going and everyone is here," she said. "I have already noticed more traffic in and out of Union Station than before."
    Though it is already open, the restaurant will hold a grand opening celebration on Sept. 23. The restaurant also has specials each day and will issue coupons in the future.
    So far, students seem happy with the new addition.
    "The food is good," said Celia Gaches, junior in animal science. "It is a little pricey. I could go to La Fiesta and eat better for the same price."
    Jason Brody, assistant professor in landscape architecture, said he also enjoyed dining at Salsarita's.
    "The food is good, and I like that Union Station isn't as crowded as the food court upstairs," he said.