The Gryphon Gazette

By Logan S. ‘27

The most important part of the day without a doubt is lunch. The bell rings as the clock strikes 11:40 am, and the lunch period at Crystal Springs Uplands School begins. Students rush out of their classes towards the cafeteria. The lines quickly extend out the doors as students wait, eager to find out what the lunch will be that day. When students reach the front and see what the meal has to offer, they either give off signs of clear excitement or subtle disappointment. Knowing my personal favorites, I decided to interview others and learn what Crystal meals excite students and PAC the most. 

Macaroni and Cheese

The clear number one favorite lunch consistently mentioned during interviews with students and PAC was macaroni and cheese. Students such as Danté M. ‘27, Tedy W. ‘27, and Rohan D. ‘25 all enjoy the Mac-N-Cheese due to its commonly enjoyable and customizable nature. This macaroni and cheese also comes with optional toppings including crushed flaming hot cheetos, mushrooms, and jalapenos and was a real fan favorite.

Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

The first runner-up was grilled cheese and tomato soup. This hearty winter meal is a personal favorite of mine and many other students due to its mass appeal and accommodations with a no ham grilled cheese variation for the vegetarian students and PAC. Not only are the sandwiches grilled very well,but the combination of dipping the cheesy sandwich into the smooth tomato soup multiplies the simple but delicious flavors. 

Make Your Own Tacos

The second runner-up meal is the make-your-own tacos, with a choice of meat, beans, and rice. Many students agree that the customization for this lunch is what sets it apart from the others. This meal often comes with a choice of rice, beans, chicken, or beef.

Other Favorites

Lastly, burgers, nachos, and the chicken and waffles also excite students and PAC members when offered. Because they are only served once in a while these meals are some of the most commonly enjoyed and requested lunches on campus. Other meals that receive positive reviews include buffalo wings, quesadillas, and orange chicken. 

Snacks 

During all passing periods and breaks, Crystal Springs students and PAC all look forward to enjoying a quick snack from the cafeteria. While snacks rotate daily, cereals including Mini Wheats, Frosted Flakes, Apple Jacks, Raisin Bran, Rice Krispies, and Froot loops. The diversity in the cereal provided allows for all students and PAC to enjoy at least one. Another common staple in the Crystal Cafe is bread for toast and bagels. 

Although not all lunches have the same level of culinary satisfaction, the food provider for Crystal Springs, Epicurean, has been open to feedback and further recommendations to continue to improve the quality and enjoyment levels of the meal offerings. The snacks provided throughout the day keep PAC and students from being hungry and fulfill our sugar cravings.