Best On-Campus Places to Eat Off-Campus food
As I sit eating my burrito and drinking my last free drink from Chipotle, I realize that very rarely have I ever eaten inside the same off-white walls where I purchase my all-too-frequent to-go lunch. On a rainy day like today, the bleak grayness of a chain's indoor aesthetic just doesn't do it for me in terms of atmosphere. But there are a few places to eat on-campus that do:The westward-facing study cubicle on the 12th floor of the SciLi has a great view of Providence, is typically uninhabited by anyone actually studying, and has enough desk space for you to spread out your eating supplies as much as your heart desires (it's like the king-sized bed of dining tables). Plus, you can tell your friends you spent time in the SciLi way before your paper was due, making you feel more Type A and less Type B(etter Burger Company) than ever before.The second floor lobby of List Art Center has a similarly great view (with added art), and moderately comfortable furniture.The Blue Room is great if you're meeting some friends who are still on meal plan, and others that are not. It doesn't matter whether you're eating Kabob and Curry or "Kabob and Curry"—all are welcomeThe Underground is even better, though, because the tables are big enough to accommodate an entire Nice Slice pizza.Never underestimate your room. There's something calming about have Thayer-street food in the serenity of your own space. Not to mention, if we're talking about atmosphere, what's better than the posters you picked out yourself?An empty classroom is a great spot to eat for similar reasons, but what's even better is the extra space it provides. Play some music, spread out your books, spill your drink (or not). I recommend 3rd floor J. Walter Wilson, if you're willing to wait for the elevator.The Leeds Theatre breezeway provides entertainment to your meal. There's usually some sort of interesting display, and if you're lucky you might catch someone playing piano in the lobby next door. (Note: doing this during a show might not be the best idea, as you'd probably get a few dirty looks from theater-goers. Try using this spot between noon and 3pm.)While we're at it, here are a few places to avoid:The Ratty: you'll probably still have to swipe in, despite the fact that you're obviously carrying a Mike's calzone. It might be a little bit easier to pull off eating in the V-dub, though, by using the second entrance.The John Hay Library. It may not be quite as inflammatory as playing music in Leung, but the crinkling of foil will likely be too much for that silent room to handle, so just don't do it.A different restaurant. Teavana doesn't want to see your Starbucks cup, but they probably also don't want to see your crispy sesame chicken.The westward-facing study cubicle on the 12th floor of the SciLi because I'm already probably there, and I'm probably not finished with my burrito.Image via the author.