Imagine, it is a mundane Tuesday afternoon, you are absolutely starving and there is no food in your dorm. Luckily, you live in Lewis Hall, which is right outside of The 90. Perfect, right? Wrong. Your friend calls you and asks you to go to The 90 with them and you roll your eyes in disgust. You would rather starve than eat there.

This is the unfortunate reality for many University of Kentucky students. To most, braving the Fresh Food Company is a nightmare inducing activity. However, I implore you to view The 90 in a different light. Instead of sighing and holding your breath as soon as you scan in, appreciate the limitless possibilities of the journey that is ahead of you. After all, chances are that you are paying thousands of dollars per year to eat there.

The first stop on this journey of appreciation is Zen Wok. Between white rice, tofu, lo mein and more, Zen Wok is always there to provide a delicious meal to those that are willing to appreciate it. Simply grab a bowl and allow for the kind cafeteria workers to serve you. You will not regret it.

The real star of the show is Restaurant Row. If you can catch Restaurant Row when it is open, you are undoubtedly in for the best meal that The 90 has to offer. Forget study abroad, I felt like I was transported directly to the Mediterranean as soon as I got my hands on a gyro from Restaurant Row. Another day, I took a trip to India without ever having to leave my seat through some warm white rice and savory chicken tikka masala. I closed my eyes and almost saw myself on the streets of Mumbai. It was life-changing.

Next, allow me to introduce you to Cozy Classics. From tender roast beef to creamy mashed potatoes, Cozy Classics makes you feel like you are enjoying a Southern mamaw’s home cooking. You can never go wrong with that.

It would be a disservice if I did not mention the tacos that are served from Nathan’s. If I walk into The 90 and see that Nathan’s has chicken tacos, my day instantly improves exponentially. I would highly encourage you to see for yourself how delectable these tacos are.

This opinion piece would be incomplete without mentioning the bakery. Throughout my highest and lowest moments of college, one thing has always been there for me: the rainbow sprinkle cookies from The 90. If you have not indulged in one of these, you are missing out. The cookie is the perfect texture, and the colorfulness of the sprinkles is just enough to brighten my day.

Like all good things, nothing lasts forever. Meal swipes run out eventually, but you will always cherish the memories of dining with your beloved classmates in the wonderful establishment that is the Fresh Food Company. The next time you grace The 90 with your presence, appreciate the dining journey you are about to experience.