Chloe Reid

Reporter

Whether you’re a current Idaho State University student, faculty member or alumni, chances are that you’ve experienced one of the many on-campus dining experiences. Whether it be food from the Turner Dining Commons,  Rendezvous or the Pond Student Union Building, there are plenty of options to satisfy anyone’s cravings. Here are my opinions on where is the best place to eat on the Pocatello campus.

1. Einstein Bros Bagels

A popular student favorite, Einstein Bros., located in the Pond Student Union Building (PSUB), offers bagels in whichever way your heart may desire. From pizza bagels, bagel sandwiches, desert bagels and a variety of plain bagels on the menu, there’s something for everyone. With over a dozen types of bagels and schmears, as well as a diverse selection of drinks such as energy drinks, sodas, coffees, teas and smoothies, you can try something new every time you visit. Operating from 7:30 a.m to 2 p.m Mondays through Fridays, Einstein’s offers both breakfast and lunch options at a decent price.

Overall Rating: 9/10

2. Turner Dining Commons

While not being a specialty location, Turner dining commons is the very heart of the ISU dining experience. Turner is the only spot on campus where a meal plan can be used, compared to other locations where food is only purchasable through debit, credit or “flex money”, an additional currency for extra on-campus purchases outside of your meal plan. Offering an “all you can eat” style buffet, Turner is roughly $10 a meal and offers rotating options daily from Asian, Mexican, Indian, Italian and American-influenced cuisine options, as well as soups, salads, a grill and rotating dessert options. While Turner’s price point is a bit steeper compared to other dining options, since meal plans are required for underclassmen living on campus, Turner is a necessity in dining for those new to campus, putting it at a higher spot on the list.

Overall Rating: 7/10

3. Sono

Located in Rendezvous, Sono offers Mexican-inspired cuisine such as tacos, burritos and bowls. With few competing options in the area, Sono offers unique and convenient dining that is at a pretty good price compared to other restaurants in the area.

Overall Rating: 8.5/10

4. Revolution Noodle

Another popular student favorite, Revolution Noodle, also located in Rendezvous, offers authentic Asian cuisine, with customizable bowl options with an array of noodles, sauces, broths and veggies.

Overall Rating: 8.5/10

5. ACE Sushi

Also located in Rendezvous, ACE Sushi is one of the few sushi restaurants in the area that operates conveniently on campus. For sushi lovers at ISU, there are not many options located near to campus, making ACE Sushi one of its kind locally. With options such as bubble tea, dumplings, macarons, salad and a variety of rolls, ACE sushi is a great option to get all the traditional staples of a local sushi joint.

Overall Rating: 8/10

6. Amazing Glaze

Located in the SUB, Amazing Glaze is a donut shop that stays true to its name. Operated locally, Amazing Glaze has an original location off-campus and offers unique, potato flour-based donuts, a perfect Idahoan twist. From long-time beloved flavors such as maple bars, classic glazed and chocolate, to unique flavors such as banana split, birthday cake and fruity pebble, there’s a flavor to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth. However, there is not much diversity past donuts, making it not a great choice for a typical meal option.

Overall Rating: 8/10

7. Burger 208

Burger 208 is located in Rendezvous and offers traditional American favorites such as burgers, fries and shakes. While also located on campus, there are several other options around providing the same type of food, giving Burger 208 a lower score on account of uniqueness. However, it is a great option for students without a reliable form of transportation, meaning a great option for those who are just coming into campus and want American food fast and easy.

Overall Rating: 7/10

8. The C-Store

While not an option specifically for dining, the C-Store is a convenience store located in Rendezvous that serves all your quick essential needs. Like any convenience store, the C-store offers options such as TV dinners, snacks, instant ramen & mac and cheese, candies, ice cream, sodas, first aid supplies and a small section of miscellaneous groceries. Purchases can be made with flex money, and while not offering anything specialized, the C-store has been a prime location for students who need a quick snack or pick-me-up. With the C-store’s convenient location on campus, it’s a great spot for students who don’t have a method of transportation or need somewhere to spend unused flex money, earning itself a spot on this list.

Overall Rating: 7/10