It is easy to get tired of cafeteria food with the limited options we have on campus. Even McDonalds and Taco Bell can get old. Here, from cheapest to most expensive, is a list of off-the-beaten track, off-campus destinations to curb your hunger.
- Most Economical
Right across from Kroger with a secret parking lot in the back resides a little gem called China Moon. Inside is a lackluster little counter with a smiling employee who points out that from 11-3 every day everything is $5.95! This is an amazing place to sit in, pick up, or carry out a delicious (and cheap) meal.
2. A Hyper-local Twist on a Cincinnati Favorite
9565 Kenwood Rd
Not many people really try chili places other than skyline, but Blue Ash Chili is a must try. It is very similar to a Skyline only they offer more, including chili, burgers and sandwiches at their restaurant. The place is even as cheap as skyline with nothing over priced. This place is so good even Guy Fieri has been here and even has some items named after him.
3. Tasty Subs
4645 Osborne Boulevard
The bag that my large DiBella’s sub came in was as wide as the two-person table I was sitting at. The sub was bursting out and, on that bag, read the tagline “The best sub you’ve ever had.” I must agree with that statement.
The “Godfather” sandwich that I ordered from the specialty menu had salami, capicola, and spicy ham. Other than that it was fully customizable, from breads to cheese to toppings, akin to a Subway. You can also make your own sandwich and select your own meats as well. The sizes are small, medium, large, and unless you are planning on saving half or plan on sharing I would not go with the large!
The prices are slightly more than Subway but for the taste of the food, and the shear amount of food, this is definitely the place to go.
4. Breakfast!
9514 Kenwood Rd
Sleepy Bee is the only breakfast place on our list, but that is not the only reason it made it. The staff was really warm and friendly, and the coffee hit the spot.
They had a normal breakfast menu with the works, such as eggs, bacon, pancakes, and muffins. Sleepy Bee also has “Bee-spoke” omelettes which are customized to the way you want.
We put the average time for a sit-down meal, but if you are in a hurry you can always drop in for a muffin and a coffee to-go, and they have way more options when it comes to coffee than the cafeteria!
6. Better than Taco Bell
4270 Hunt Rd
This is a Mexican restaurant for when you get tired of Taco Bell. The prices are a bit steep in comparison. The food, however, is of a much better quality. Depending on your appetite, this could easily make two meals! The house salsa is incredible and if you are into spicy, you can ask to make the salsa spicy and you will not be disappointed. (No pics of the chips and salsa as they were gone too fast.)
