Imagine you’re stuck in your room on a Friday night and your friends already went out for the night. Sure, you could catch up to them; however, you’re more concerned about what you’re doing to eat. Do you really feel like cooking on a Friday night or walking all the way to Center Court? Probably not. You worked hard this week. Treat yourself to one of these places for some good food, coffee, and maybe cure your sweet tooth.

1. Keystone Bar & Grill / Mac Shack

Keystone is meant to be enjoyed on a Monday where you can shamelessly splurge on Mac Mondays. All Mac and Cheese is half-price all day on Mondays. If you are in a bit of a rush and do not want to go inside for the long wait, the Mac Shack next door offers the same discount and same food with shorter lines. You’re welcome.

2. Martino's On Vine

Considering I am half Italian, it’s only fitting that I include probably the only restaurant close to UC that serves Italian food. It’s a little pricey for college students, but it is completely worth it. I ordered from them many duty nights for those late night carbs. For a first time, make sure you order one of their calzones. You will not be disappointed. Trust me.

3. Izen's Drunken Bento

I am not a huge sushi person, but I do appreciate anything half off. Sushi is half-off after 4 p.m. 7 days a week. Who can say no to a cheap and tasty meal? I enjoy their yum yum, California, and cooked shrimp rolls, but there is something for everyone. The environment is cozy for you and your friends, but the food is worth it especially if you enjoy sushi.

4. Adriatico's Pizza

Adriatico’s is simply one of a kind. It’s a little more expensive than Papa John’s, Domino's, and LaRosa’s, but it is completely worth it. They offer a special called the “Bearcat” pizza that is perfect for any party or event as it comes with 30 pieces of pizza. The inside of the place is cozy and has many draft beer options if you are 21 and older. Their pizza is fresh and made to order. Plus, you’re guaranteed pizza which we all know is better the next day.

5. Cincy Steak & Lemonade

This is a very small place located on Short Vine, but Cincy Steak and Lemonade is perfect for those cheeseburger and slushy cravings. Their combo meals are very affordable and you get a good amount of food...and a slushie. Honestly, even just going for the lemonade slushie is completely worth the trip. It’s also very local and, again, very affordable for your college budget.

6. Insomnia Cookies

Insomnia Cookies always hurts my wallet, but it’s always worth it. Imagine you’re coming home from studying at the library or coming back from a party on a cold night on Calhoun Street. Suddenly, you smell nothing but freshly baked chocolate chip cookies. Those cravings will kick in and you’re a goner. It does not hurt to treat yourself to a few cookies or even some of their ice cream once and a while, but don’t go too often or your wallet will be the one telling you that you can’t treat yourself.

7. Tea 'N' Bowl

Tea ‘n’ Bowl is a family-owned Asian food joint right off of the south end of campus, and its menu is plentiful. There are so many items to pick from and your food is guaranteed fresh. Their staple, however, is their bubble tea offering. Even just stopping in for bubble tea on your way to class is worth the trip. The price is a little rough on a college budget, but you get enough food for two days at least.

8. Rohs Street Cafe

I could not go through this article without including coffee somewhere in the mix. Rohs has a good variety of coffees and teas available for your consumption while you study for classes or go up there to enjoy a local artist performing on the weekend. Rohs is a great local spot especially for those into local coffee, brews, and just want an alternative to Starbucks and their constantly busy lines.

9. Cilantro

Cilantro offers fresh Vietnamese cuisine for an affordable price. It’s never awkward to dine in alone either. The quality of the food mixed with the variety of choices and the freshness makes for a pleasant experience there. Their Pho is delicious and their rolls are light and filling.

10. Graeter's

Lastly, I could not mention food and UC without Graeter’s. Graeter’s serves some of the best ice cream ever. I’ve had a lot of ice cream in my time too. However, the local atmosphere and smoothness of Graeter’s makes a trip always worth it.

With so many options of food around campus, it was hard to curate the list to just ten items. These places are my personal favorites, but everyone is different. There are also many places I still have not tried so take that into consideration as well. Now, go treat yourself out to dinner or dessert tonight!