For students at Seven Hills, lunchtime is more than just a break from classes; it’s a chance to refuel and recharge. But what exactly are we refueling with? Opinions about the cafeteria’s offerings are as varied as the menu itself. While some students rave about certain dishes, others have strong feelings and items they’d rather avoid. From enthusiastic thumbs-ups to critical suggestions, the cafeteria lunches at Seven Hills have sparked plenty of lively discussions.
Each day, the cafeteria offers a variety of options, from classic favorites like pizza and chicken tenders to healthier alternatives such as the salad bar. A plate lunch also rotates daily, featuring dishes like pasta, pizza delivery, and chicken sandwiches. Pre-made sandwiches and a wide range of snacks are available for those looking for a quick option.
According to the student community, Domino’s Pizza is the cafeteria crowd-pleaser, with students often lining up early on pizza day to snag their slice. Upper School students ranked their all-time top five lunches: pasta, pizza delivery, chicken sandwiches, breakfast for lunch, and chicken quesadillas. These dishes consistently draw high praise and repeat visits. Not every item on the menu, however, receives the same enthusiasm. Swedish meatballs have been named the least popular dish, with students often giving them a pass.
Some students have their own unique favorites. When asked about his favorite lunch, senior Ryan Brackett said, “Grilled cheese and tomato soup,” and he opposed the popular favorite plate lunch when he said, “pizza because we have it so much, but if there were a rotation of pizza companies, I would enjoy having pizza for lunch.” Moreover, senior Aryan Reddy said, “korean beef tacos that we had one time during the 2022-2023 school year, that was the prime of the plate lunches,” as he reminisced about a standout meal. This meal stuck with Reddy for three years, highlighting how memorable and delicious many students find the plate lunches.
While the plate lunches remain a highlight for many, others advocate for a change in the catering options. Junior Amelia Schnirring said, “We should bring back catering, specifically Chick-fil-A, Chipotle, Wingstop, and Taglio, instead of Domino’s for pizza delivery day.” Schnirring is not alone in hoping for various tasty options beyond the usual pizza delivery day by adding these popular food chains.
Lunchtime at school isn’t just about food—it’s about the memories, the friendships, and the experiences that come with it. Over the years, many students have come to cherish the diverse offerings and unique moments that unfold in the cafeteria. From standout plate lunches to chats with friends, lunchtime holds a special place in the hearts of many. For instance, Brackett said, “As a senior, the thing I will miss most about lunch after I graduate is being with my friends in the cafeteria; you need to be grateful for the time you have with your friends in high school.”
As the school year progresses, students continue to make the most of their lunch periods, savoring the meals and the memories created in the process. Whether it’s a favorite meal or the laughter shared with friends, lunch is more than just a break from class—it’s a time to bond.
