Murphy’s Grill Offically Opens on Campus -

The Cardinal Burger at Murphy’s Grill Courtesy of Jissella Urquilla

By Jissella Urquilla

The Catholic University community finally has a new hangout spot on campus. Murphy’s Grill opened its doors to patrons on Monday, September 25th after a couple weeks of mock service. Two “Now Open” banners, an announcement email sent by the university, and a welcome video let the campus know that Murphy’s Grill was ready for business.

Murphy’s Grill offers a variety of appetizers, soups, salads, burgers, pastas and chef specials. The restaurant also offers a variety of craft beers in bottle and draft. They have a selection of red and white wines as well as top shelf and rail liquors.

Amongst the various items on the menu at Murphy’s is the Cardinal Burger, an all-beef burger topped with a fried egg, bacon, cheddar cheese, arugula and chipotle aioli all served on a brioche bun (currently priced at $14). The Murphy’s Menu provides the disclaimer “not made from cardinals!” What a relief.

The staff of Murphy’s is adjusting to the flow of staff and students coming in to eat and drink. According to Edward LaHaye, business management major and Murphy’s Grill lunch staff, the restaurant has been busier during dinner than it has been for lunch. Although, he has noticed that the lunch crowd has progressively picked up as the week goes on.

Lunch at Murphy’s this week has been quiet with a few tables occupied by faculty enjoying salads and various other menu items. During dinner, there is more of a restaurant buzz and people socializing. The bar is more lively during the evening hours.

The staff at Murphy’s seems to appreciate that business is slowly picking up because it allows them time to get comfortable with their positions since they are still learning. Bartender Maryclare Warren noted that the staff has been working for about two weeks now before the official opening. In this period of mock service, student workers invited their friends to come in for a compensated meal for all of the staff to practice and gain experience.

Although there will always be mistakes in the first week, the wait staff has been very attentive and systematic in their operations. Managers remained close by to help out when small confusions occurred. Cheerful hosts greeted new customers as they entered and said goodbye as they left.

The opening of Murphy’s Grill has accomplished the dream Michael Murphy had when he first brought up this idea. It is a place to network and socialize. With small talk between staff, waiters, students, and faculty, this restaurant is a new opportunity for community building at Catholic.

Dr. Lynn M. Mayer celebrated her birthday at Murphy’s Grill. Mayer is an Associate Professor for Social Work and the Vice Provost and Dean of Undergraduate Studies at CUA.

“The food has been wonderful and it’s a great addition to campus,” Mayer said.

Professor Robert A. Warren, an accounting professor, introduced himself to students and provided them with a business card. “In case you want to change your major,” he said. You might just meet a professor who can teach you something new outside your major.

Justin Stine, a nursing major, described Murphy’s Grill as “fantastic.” “The service was very nice and attentive,” Stine said.

Students have noted their enjoyment of the nachos and wings appetizers as well as the dessert options. Others have expressed that the prices at Murphy’s are not reasonable for college students.
“Be mindful of the alcohol as it is expensive. That is my only complaint,” Stine said.

Murphy’s Grill is a modern-day restaurant/bar located beneath Murphy’s Lounge. Its walls are aligned with televisions and an electrical fire place. Booths like the ones found in Murphy’s Lounge are lined up against the wall with bar and table seating also available. The restaurant is open Monday – Wednesday 11:30 AM – 8 PM, Thursday – Friday 11:30 AM – 11 PM, Saturday 12 PM – 11 PM, and closed on Sunday.