After being on campus for almost two years now, living in different spots, I have managed to learn a great deal of food hacks. Two things you should know about me: I am lazy and I am cheap. So when it comes to food, I do everything I can to spend the least amount of money, while putting in the least amount of effort!
1. Klondike Kates
If you're a cheese fanatic like me, you have to try the nachos from Klondike Kates! They're a pretty common item on campus, so if you have yet to try them, you're really missing out. On Tuesdays, they're half price! So if you need your fix of nachos, always go to Kate's on Tuesdays.
2. The Best Way to Order Chipotle
Everyone has been to Chipotle. And if you're a regular, you probably have a fixed meal you like to get. But here's a little trick I learned from a friend: You can get extra of everything but the meat and the guac for free! So while Chipotle is already a ton of food, whenever I go, I always ask for extra rice, salsa, and veggies because it allows you to have a meal big enough for two! I don't think you can deny that left over Chipotle at 1AM is just as good ;)
3. Perkins Salad Bar
The Perkins Salad bar has to be the healthiest option on campus-run dining on campus, that taste good. The options are always fresh and there is a lot of variety. When I go to put the dressing on, I put it on the side so that the salad weighs less. OK sure it may only save a few cents, but when you go as much as me, it'll add up!
4. $ 5.00 Snap
Pay attention to deals on Main Street. Quite often Snap Pizza will have 5$ days. While the line is all the way down to 711, it's totally worth the wait to save 3.50 on pizza. Plus, it gives you an excuse to treat yo self because how can you say no to 5$ pizza!?
5. Free Insomnia
Of course I have to put my pitch in here. I am a marketing rep for Insomnia Cookies and I hold samplings of free cookies all the time. Go follow the Insta @Insomniacsudel where you'll catch me posting when I do!
6. The Pod has sales? (what?)
Totally random, but on a few occasions i've seen things on sale at the Pod. If you're gonna buy chips eventually, my as well get them when they're BOGO. Just make sure you check the expiration date!
7. Central Perk
I love Central Perk. I'll buy anything from there on sale or not. But very often on their sign outside they show a deal, or 15% off. If you only go occasionally, check to see when their deals are
8. Starbucks Doesn't Have to Break the Bank
Starbucks is known for being totally overpriced, and yes, it is. But a coffee addict like me has found ways to keep it cheap. Instead of buying a fancy macchiato or late, I just get my coffee regular, with a flavor shot. Saves you at least 2$, and tastes basically the same!
9. Buck a Bag
At the local Acmes, every so often they will have deals when its a dollar for a bag of lettuce, mushrooms, tomatoes ect. But as many as you can, and freeze it.
10. NEVER SAY NO TO FREE FOOD
The last, and most important, lesson I have for you all is to NEVER SAY NO TO FREE FOOD. Being a marketing rep for Insomnia Cookies, there is nothing that frustrates me more when I hold cookie sampling than when people say no. If I see anyone offering me free food, I take it! Give it to a friend or something if you don't want it... In the broke college world, free food is everything.
