The original Vista Grande Dining Complex opened in 1973 and throughout years, it was THE place to get waffles, late night breakfast burritos, ice cold milk, and oh so many snacks.

It's a rare graduate of Cal Poly, who doesn't have memories of VGs, whether as a convenient place to take a study break or even as the site of an epic food fight. VGs has seen it all! We recently asked alumni to share their favorite memories of the original VGs on our social media channels. Read on for some of our favorite comments, and a peek at the new building!

Definitely coming in the back door from Yosemite T5 for Ben & Jerry’s...I used to down 2 pints in a night 🤤

Jeffrey S.

Sleek new look, love it! I have the best memories of working there as an AM cashier in 1987. I loved everything about working there as well as the short walk from Yosemite.

Renee D.

Love the upgrade! It was right next to me in Sierra Madre... I remember the burrito bar on late nights. 🌯 😋

Katie N.

 

I remember the milk being sooooo good and so cold that thin ice would float on the top of the glass-back in 1984/85🥛.

Katie H.

I worked there all four years of my time at Poly (99-03)! It was seriously the best job ever. The managers were so accommodating with our school schedules and would even cover your shift during midterms and finals so we could study. I'm so sad to see the original facility torn down but the new one looks very nice.

Melanie H.

I always went to VG....was nice short walk from Muir. I enjoyed a glass of paradise iced tea my first day of move in back in 1993.

Lisa B.

Lived in Muir Hall 77-78, either ate at VG or the old cafeteria. I remember all the students clapping when the table cleaner dropped a glass or plate that broke. When they overturned a cart they got standing ovations. Fun times.

John E.

VGs was closed for remodeling the first half of my frosh year living in Sierra Madre. Was so excited when it reopened. I have 2 sons at Cal Poly this year so it's fun to see it reopen once again!

Brigid S.

There was allegedly an actual food fight, which I did not personally witness, but I do know the whole thing was closed for a day or two (idk, could be exaggerating because 10 years ago), and I know I saw some very unfortunate employees on ladders cleaning stuff off the ceiling. 😅

Matt R.

Loved the original when I was there. However, this is a BIG improvement!

Marna P.

I suppose they finally got rid of the curtains with petrified gummy bears stuck to them.

Julie T.

I hope the waffles are still 🔥

Candace N.

Putting chocolate pudding on the back of a bowl and sticking it to the underside of the table! It stuck there for over a week!!!

Stacy H.

Knew it well. I lived in Yosemite, and also enjoyed the short walks for dinner! 😊 I like the new look!

Pierre C.

Wow, that was fast. The new place looks great. I was in the dorms for 2 yrs in the 70s. The thing I remember most is the salad bar. A friend showed me how to layer the dressing to hold the croutons in place! LOL

Craig R.

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