For all of you who have been eyeing that cute girl or guy in class the past few weeks of winter term or have been feeling warmly warm feelings toward your significant other, I have the perfect date spot for you. It’s a restaurant called Cena, and a visit here will help you communicate those feelings for your one and only.
I went there recently and it was like walking into a New York restaurant (which made me a little homesick). Located conveniently close to campus (right next to the YMCA) it is pretty easy for any Lawrentian – even without a car – to get to. My boyfriend and I made reservations, which was a good idea since it was pretty packed with loud people and live music. What we ordered was super tasty.
Here are some of my recommendations if you decide to set some money aside to take someonee on a date or coax your parents into taking you when they visit:
Mediterranean Nachos ($13): They looked more like a main course than an appetizer. For just over ten dollars, they were worth every bite. It was everything like regular nachos except with shredded lamb instead of beef and feta cheese instead of American cheese. Topped with tomatoes and onions, they were delicious!
Beef Carpaccio ($12): My boyfriend got this and he seemed to really like it. For true carnivores, this tender black Angus beef and walnut pesto is utter satisfaction. It came with bread crackers (crostini) complemented by a shitake mushroom broth. But if you aren’t used to eating raw meat (in this case a bed of raw beef) I wouldn’t get this!
Caprese Salad ($10): I got this for my main course even though it was an appetizer. I was definitely full after eating it though, especially since the Mediterranean Nachos were a lot. These balsamic vinaigrette topped salads are pretty standard at Italian and Mediterranean restaurants, but I liked how the mozzarella cheese was melted on to each of three tomatoes on my plate…there is nothing wrong with yummy melted cheese!
Brandy Shrimp Pasta ($23): My boyfriend got this, and it was by far the most expensive thing we ordered. Before he decided to get it, I skeptically asked him about getting seafood in Wisconsin, but the Shrimp turned out to be good. He was a little annoyed by the portion size at first, since it seemed to be small. However, because the entree was rich, it was satisfying. I tried it too and was surprised by how good it was.
While this place had a fun and lively atmosphere…beware! It is a little expensive for our college budget, so make sure to go there for a special occasion or when parents can pick up the tab. It is worth it!
Cena Restaurant
125 East College Avenue
Appleton, WI 54911-5710
(920) 830-7820