The lunch rush at Sinclair College flows beyond the campus doors, as students go outside in search of more than just meals. As the quote goes, “You are what you eat,” the food choices of students can reflect more than just their hunger.
Choices beyond the cafeteria tell stories about students’ backgrounds, habits and what they value. They can also reflect personal preferences shaped by culture and upbringing.
Amongst the diverse students and their choices, three students gravitate towards their own favourite off-campus lunch spots. Where they go, what they order and how the place makes them feel reflects on their identities, and also shows off the vibrant off-campus food scenes, giving readers an opportunity to discover a new lunch spot which could be their new favourite.
Yathartha Shrestha
Yathartha Shrestha, a second-semester nursing student from Nepal, studying at Sinclair community college for a year has discovered his favorite off-campus lunch spot, Istanbul Grill, through a friend’s recommendation and positive online reviews.
Curious to try something new, he found himself drawn to the restaurant’s authentic Turkish flavors, generous portions and welcoming atmosphere.
Shrestha usually orders the chicken shawarma wrap, chicken shish and lamb kebab, accompanied by soft, flavorful rice and fresh bread.
“The spices and grilled meat remind me of homemade food and family gatherings,” he said, highlighting how the flavors evoke a sense of nostalgia.
The staff’s friendliness and the inviting Turkish-themed décor add to the overall experience, making each visit both relaxing and uplifting. In between classes and study sessions, Istanbul Grill is a part of Shrestha’s weekly rhythm and a reminder of the comforts of home.
Mike Chase
After several years at Sinclair studying music and taking piano lessons, Mike Chase has developed a rhythm that balances classes with his work as a software engineer. His approach to lunch is special as he is very intentional about his choices.
He admits he eats out more than he cares to admit, noting it is probably every other day. However, those meals are thoughtful decisions rather than impulse and cravings.
What sets Chase apart is that he does not just look for good food, he looks for meaning behind where he spends his money. He values rotating local vendors and supporting small businesses in the surrounding Dayton community.
If he had to choose a favorite restaurant, it would be Bullwinkle’s Top Hat Bistro. However, his go-to spot is 2nd Street Market, a place he associates with variety and community.
“It’s hands-down the first place I’d pick to go on a first date or with new friends,” Chase said.
At Bullwinkle’s, comfort and affordability draw him in. He often plans visits around their $3 – $5 burger specials and orders the Cajun Surf & Turf and always asks for extra buttery garlic bread.
“It’s what they call comfort food,” Chase said.
While he can eat frugally on campus, Chase reserves off-campus dining for special occasions or shared moments.
“I have a rule where I have to be with someone when I go to a nicer place to spend money on food,” he said.
For Chase, lunch is more than hunger, its connection, community and the simple joy of sharing a meal with others.
Emily Nguyen
Unlike some students who choose lunch for culture or connection, Emily Nguyen approaches it practically: Visiting the China Garden Buffet once a week, enjoying something that is affordable but still satisfying.
“Price and taste matter the most to me,” Nguyen said.
She believes lunch is less about nostalgia or community, but more about freedom like choosing whatever she wants, trying a little of everything and enjoying a meal on her own terms.
Although her favorites are snow crab and crawfish, she often chooses the buffet varieties as it seems more interesting and comforting instead of committing to one meal. That flexibility is part of the appeal.
With great hospitality alongside and heavy meals below $15 which includes her favorites, she enjoys her time having what she prefers, making a reliable choice for her own meaning of lunch — enjoyable, diverse, freedom and flavor.
She believes food is not necessarily a reminder of home, it can be the spot for meeting with friends and uplifting the mood once in a while.
Nguyen shows that the right meal isn’t just about nostalgia or tradition, it’s about finding what fits your life and makes you happy.
Whether it reminds someone of home, strengthens a local economy or simply lifts a mood after class, lunch reflects who we are — even in the most ordinary moments.
Monsoon Koirala, reporter
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