For many, one of the highlights of going to Memorial is its proximity to a variety of food and shopping options. From Dave’s Hot Chicken to a warm bowl of pho from Saigon Noodles, you can find a group of hungry high schoolers at any of these restaurants at 12:30 p.m. on a weekday. To guide you through all these options, whether you’re a freshman completely new to the scene or a seasoned upperclassman, here’s a comprehensive list of the best lunch spots near VPM (in no particular order).

Chipotle – Who doesn’t love a build-your-own burrito or bowl? So many options, and for a good price too.

Noodles & Company – Another very popular spot with a variety of pasta and noodle choices.

Chick-fil-A – Great customer service and drive-thru with good quality food as well.

Starbucks – Caffeine is a must for students, and PSL season is finally here. But if you’re in the mood for a meal, you can also get a sandwich or just a sweet treat.

Popeye’s – I had no idea we had a Popeye’s near our school, but it’s here if you’re craving fried chicken!

Jersey Mike’s – The best sub chain in my opinion, and right next to Starbucks.

Qdoba – Again, build-your-own burritos and bowls are hard to beat. Plus, guac and queso are free.

Panera – A good spot for lunch or a study session after school with a yummy bakery.

McDonald’s – Sometimes McDonald’s is just what you need to get through the school day.

Culver’s – A Wisconsin classic. 

Tropical Smoothie Cafe – Refreshing smoothies, acai bowls, and even flatbreads and wraps for a quick lunch.

Crisp and Green – Your typical corporate lunch place with salads, wraps, and smoothies! 

MOD Pizza – You’ll probably have to share with a friend or two, but I love that you can get unlimited toppings without paying extra.

Sa Bai Thong – This may not be a fast food or fast casual restaurant, but if you get bored with the typical lunch options, Thai food is a great way to switch it up.

MOOYAH – Burgers, fries, and shakes.

City Barbeque – A slightly more interesting choice for school lunch, but as we hold on to the last of summer, barbeque can be a fun meal with friends.

Saigon Noodles – Not a traditional lunch spot, but a to-go bowl of pho always hits on a cold day. Just make sure to order in advance since your food might take longer!

MACS – Outside of a long list of macaroni and cheese dishes, they also have sandwiches and salads.

Olive Garden – If Noodles & Company and MACS aren’t fancy enough for you, Olive Garden has iconic pasta, breadsticks, and Andes mints.

Portillo’s – Chicago-style fast food known for its hot dogs, Italian beef, and chocolate cake.

Rosati’s Pizza – Not only do they have deep dish pizza, but they also have wings, sandwiches, calzones, salads, appetizers, and desserts.

Burger King – Yet another burger option! I like those cardboard crowns they give out, too.

Sarku Japan – This is your standard, comfort mall food court American-Asian food with teriyaki, bento boxes, and sushi. 

This list should give you an idea of the options you have for lunch within a one-mile radius of VPM, even though there are many more that weren’t mentioned. Enjoy your lunches this year, whether you choose to go off-campus or eat at school. But if you’re eating out, just make sure to be back at school on time for 5th hour!