I remember by mid October of first year how burnt out my friends and I already were with the endless meal swipes at O’Hill. Cereal and pizza just didn’t cut it anymore and we found ourselves looking to the future of second year and all that it entailed—especially shiny apartments and the added bonus of our very own kitchen! We spent all of second semester constantly sharing how stoked we were to finally cook the food we want. Then we got to second year and discovered it’s actually kind of difficult to shop for just one person, and as convenient as Lean Cuisines are, their portion sizes aren’t filling and the added salt to compensate for lack of calories is not the healthiest option. So what’s a girl to do?
The first option I would recommend would be to sign up for student rewards at local grocery store chains such as Harris Teeter and Kroger. Student discounts will ensure your grocery bill stays low when stocking up on breakfast items and snacks. The next step for those living in an apartment is discussing with your roommates food items you would be willing to share such as bread and milk which can go bad pretty quickly if only for one person. From here, you can also discuss the idea of apartment dinners, where you all take turns making meals together. For instance, if you have three other roommates, each can take a night to help fix a group meal. Then the weekends will be more flexible with going out, friends visiting, and the exciting tailgating season that comes with football.
However, we all know that eating out is another great option! Here is what I call the “Corner Meal Plan” which allows busy girls to eat out and not break the bank!
Bodo’s: There’s no denying these delicious bagels that come as cheap as $1.70. Plus, this is a also a great place for lunch and dinner with their amazing salads (try the Cleo!) and is always a great option whether you’re meeting a friend to recount the adventures of last night, or quickly grabbing some lox and schmear (a bagel with cured salmon) on your way to your 8am.
Take it Away: Who doesn’t love house dressing and unlimited fountain drink refills? Sandwich prices start at $4.99 and they offer reward cards where after buying 10 sandwiches, the next one is free! Better yet, bread ends and house dressing are only 50 cents and provide the perfect study break snack or appetizer for any occasion.
Dumplings: $3 for one order and $1 soda! Just make sure you bring cash for this one!
Three: Haven’t seen your hallmates from last year in awhile? Round up the gang and head over to Three for $5 Tuesdays where everything (appetizers/salads/sandwiches/burgers/desserts) is only $5. Can’t beat it.
Biltmore: Celebrate hump day right with Biltmore’s $6 salads and sandwiches on Wednesdays. Just make sure you save room for their cookie dough pie which you can always split with friends to save on the total bill.
The Melting Pot: Believe it or not, on September 13th the Melting Pot is offering a three-course fondue meal for only $23 per person. Typically a three-course meal runs $60 per person here so this deal is definitely worth teaming up with friends for a more affordable dinner out on the downtown mall!
With these deals and steals, you will always dine well and never bust your budget! No matter what your schedule is, the Corner Meal Plan is full of variety and always provides a great way to catch up with friends. Nom on!