Best of Kent: Best on-campus eatery
First Place – Quaker Steak & Lube
Located on the lower level of the Student Center, Quaker Steak & Lube is a favorite on-campus dining spot among students.
Known for its chicken wings and variety of sauces, such as the “Dusted Ghost Pepper,” the “Buckeye BBQ” and the “Kentucky Bourbon Glaze,” Quaker Steak has been a dining staple since it opened on campus in 2012.
While the eatery is famous for its wings, Quaker Steak has plenty of other items to offer, ranging from salads to baby back ribs.
The “Loaded Magna Fries,” which contain scallions, cheese, bacon and ranch, and the “Bavarian Pretzels,” which are served with a beer cheese dip, add to the dynamic menu.
Quaker Steak’s dessert selection includes the “Amazing Chocolate Chunk Skillet Cookie,” an enormous butter cookie filled with chocolate chunks and pretzel balls and topped with hot fudge and vanilla ice cream.
However, the food is not the only aspect of Quaker Steak that students enjoy. The restaurant’s lively social environment makes it a fun place for students to connect with friends, said Andrew Herrera, Quaker Steak’s food service manager.
“It’s (Quaker Steak) the closest thing to a sit-down restaurant,” Herrera said.
Quaker Steak frequently hosts events for students, such as karaoke.
Second Place – Fresco Mexican Grill & Salsa Bar
Fresh ingredients set this Mexican grill apart from other on-campus dining options.
Located in the HUB, Fresco offers students a variety of made-to-order burritos, tacos, quesadillas and salads.
While Mexican restaurants do not typically have many options for vegetarians or people with dietary restrictions, Fresco has made it an important focus on its menu.
Vegetarian and gluten-free options are part of what makes this a popular place among students. Rice, beans, guacamole and cheese can be used as substitutes for meat in most of Fresco’s dishes. In addition, many items at Fresco can be prepared without gluten.
Third Place – Rosie’s
Desserts and diner food are what make Rosie’s Diner and Market a favorite eatery on campus.
Located in the Tri-Towers Rotunda, Rosie’s serves a wide range of entrees, such as grilled cheese, hamburgers, mozzarella sticks and chicken fingers.
Homemade milkshakes are another popular staple at this establishment. Students can shop for groceries at the market while their food is being prepared.
Open 24/7, Rosie’s is a convenient on-campus dining option for students looking to grab a bite to eat at any hour of the day.
Paige Bennett is a feature writer. Contact her at [email protected].