The Forum

With the reintroduction of the Student Center comes the return of the full-service cafeteria, a place for students to grab a lunch or snack in between classes. Since its relocation from the second floor, the larger cafeteria still offers hot meals and other options although the menu and the prices haven’t changed much. 

They do offer non-made-to-order items like chicken sandwiches, chicken tenders, fries, and toasted ravioli, allowing you to grab something and eat quickly. If you would like to pair your mozzarella sticks or toasted ravioli with marinara sauce, that will cost you extra, unlike other sauces like ketchup, mustard, hot honey, or mayonnaise.

Pizza is available daily, along with a fresh salad bar and variety of specials that rotate on a regular basis. The specials in the center hot food island are pricier options but can include a complete. On Ash Wednesday they offered shrimp, fish, and hushpup pies along with coleslaw and potato salad. Mexican, Italian, and Chinese cuisine has also been featured in the rotating menu.

Most food items do include a combo option that includes a kitchen item, a drink, and side. The drinks are standard fountain drinks, similar to most fast-food places, while also offering coffee. 

The refrigerated cases along the back wall are packed with drink and snack options ranging from yogurt, vegetables, sandwiches, and bottled coffee and energy drinks. Candy, chips, cookies, and protein bars line the shelves near them.

Students can also take advantage of a special deal the store has running all semester: 99-cent refills (with tax) are available to anyone using an STLCC branded water bottle or mug. Instead of buying a cup with every purchase of coffee or soda, you can instead make a one-time investment (not to mention a plethora of opportunities to get a free STLCC branded cup from our dozens of student events) to receive these low-cost refills.

The convenience of having the option of food on campus is useful to busy students even if it’s a bit pricey, although Executive Chef Matthew Crook said the school sets the prices and there are many inex pensive options, including a hamburger or chicken sandwich for under $6.50, and pizza slices under $5.00. 

Crook added that a lunch special will begin soon that features a hamburger, fries and drink for $4.99. Students can substitute a hot dog, grilled cheese, or chicken tenders for the hamburger at the same price. 

Hours are Monday through Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 3 pm and Fridays 7:30 am-2 pm.