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Mustard Seed gets planted at MUSC

by Heather Murphy
Public Relations
MUSC students and employees need look no further for a daily intake of hummus, fresh seafood, and scrumptious veggies now that the Mustard Seed restaurant is open on campus in the Harper Student Center/Wellness Center.

The Mustard Seed occupies what was once known as Gil’s Grill in the Wellness Center. The Marriott-run restaurant closed due to high food costs and management fees. 

“It was a logical idea because we don’t have fatty deep fried foods or red meat,” said Sal Parko, owner of the Mustard Seed, “It was an opportunity to serve healthy food in an environment with people who would appreciate it.” 

Mustard Seed's first customer, Adam Mailloux, weighs his food and pays Greg Rice, head manager. Casey Glowacki, center photo, chef, prepares fresh vegetables. Right photo: Richard Morales, chef de cuisine, prepares a vegetarian lasagna to be served during lunch. The Mustard Seed, which opened July 8 will serve a buffet-style menu from 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. 

Parko placed a bid with the state to lease the space and won out against other area restaurants for the slot at the Wellness Center. 

“We’re really excited to have it,” said Julian Smith, director of the center, “We’ve all lost so much weight, we’re ready for some good food.”

The new Mustard Seed boasts the same reasonably priced lunch menu (entrees and appetizers range from $4 to $7) as its other two locations in Mount Pleasant and James Island, but offers breakfast as a bonus for those downtown. The morning menu will include eggs and potatoes prepared a variety of ways, flavored grits, fresh squeezed juices and other foods high in energy. 

The layout is buffet style but some items made to order will be served at the table.

The Mustard Seed will be completely owned and operated by Parko, with the staff including new and veteran employees. 

Open to the public, the restaurant will operate from 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Parko said that the hours are not yet set in stone and may change in the future to include weekends or evenings.

What to expect on the buffet

  • Herb Salmon, Cucumber and Red Onion Quesadilla
  • Spinach Salad with Artichoke Fritters and fresh Veggies
  • Greek Salad
  • Chicken Gyro with Cucumber Dill Sauce, Feta Cheese, Tomatoes, and Spinach
  • Veggie Roll
  • Tuna Melt with Tomatoes and Jack Cheese
  • Jumbo Ravioli with Tomatoes, Artichokes, and other Veggies
  • Shrimp Linguine in Lemon Basil Broth
  • Grilled Oregano Lemon marinated Chicken 
  • Pita Pizza of the Day


Catalyst Online is published weekly, updated as needed and improved from time to time by the MUSC Office of Public Relations for the faculty, employees and students of the Medical University of South Carolina. Catalyst Online editor, Kim Draughn, can be reached at 792-4107 or by email, catalyst@musc.edu. Editorial copy can be submitted to Catalyst Online and to The Catalyst in print by fax, 792-6723, or by email to petersnd@musc.edu or catalyst@musc.edu. To place an ad in The Catalyst hardcopy, call Community Press at 849-1778.