Schlepping through classes and trudging across the wild terrain of high school can take a toll on anyone. When the first three classes finally finish and the sweet, sweet sound of the 12:05 bell rings-hungry stomachs are most likely communicating their frustrations with their lack of nourishment through an array of musical notes and utterly enchanting gurgling.

If you are currently a junior or senior (or a sneaky sophomore or freshman*) you are likely going to utilize the 50 minute lunch period and race-within state regulated limits-to your favorite spot to grab a bite to eat.

Little did you know, there are a few overlooked, hidden gems for any budget or craving. Lets go on a ride around town, shall we?

Feeling spicy? Try Moe’s. You can get a filling and quick burrito for $7.00. Be careful to gauge your time as queso can draw in the crowds faster than Chewie can punch it. If you’re in the mood for a more sit down style meal, try Fiesta Mexicana or El Tapatío. Both have cheap lunch deals and can get you in and out quickly. If you’re willing to make the drive to Chipotle, I recommend ordering online for a quick and simple pick up. Treat yo’ self, get that guac.

Are you a self proclaimed chicken? Don’t be ashamed. Chick-fil-A is right around the corner. Just be wary that everyone and their mother tries to get Chick-fil-A around the hours of 12-2pm. Drive carefully. Also, Zaxby’s offers a student deal, plus who doesn’t enjoy a gigantic piece of toast on top of their chicken tenders and french fries? PDQ is incredibly dedicated to their chicken tenders and with it being a short drive from school, the possibilities for a meal are endless. Try the french fries!

Addicted to cheese? Did you know that cheese contains casomorphins (protein fragments digested from the milk protein, casein) that act as an opioid. Meaning you can actually develop an addiction to cheese. That feeling of euphoria when you bite into a cheesy slice of $2 Sergio’s pizza isn’t just Papa Sergio’s magic. It’s science. Gooey’s will also seriously indulge your addiction with their mac & cheese grilled cheese, with an optional side of even more mac & cheese. For $7 you can go into your very own cheese coma. Bojangles offers a kids meal with mac & cheese and your choice of sides. It’s quite the bargain for $3.89.

Participating in a marathon? Running from the trailers to the third floor should count as strenuous exercise for the day. Going against the grain of teenagers alone is enough to feel like a salmon going upstream. Carb up! Bruegger’s is my all time favorite lunch spot. Seriously, I could eat bagels for the rest of my life. For just $2 you can get a quick (and vegan!) fill up. If you have time, hit up the lunch buffet at Milton’s. It’s only $9.29 and all you can eat! Plus, the wait staff rocks. Tell them Becca sent you. Grab a sandwich from Subway and for just $2.40 more, you can add chips and a drink.

Feeling like eating your body weight in fried rice? Pop on over to Jumbo China by Food Lion and grab a meal for only $5.00. Hibachi is also hidden beside Walmart, and can cater to any appetite.

Going through the “I got four hours of sleep last night and have a test fourth period” moment? Go to Starbucks and grab yourself a coffee. If this isn’t your preferred method of caffeine, Cruizers will supply you with copious amounts of soda for as little as $.89. Kiwi Smoothies can also offer a much needed pick-me up and some protein as well. Ace that test and then go home and take a nap.

How many tater tots is too many tater tots? Answer: you can NEVER have too many tater tots. Nashers makes really good sweet potato tots, and while it would be a bit of a stretch to get there and back, it’s worth it. Sonic is the reigning supreme tater tot maker, and with the option to get cheese and chili on them, I’m not sure why you’d want to go anywhere else.

Has school hamburglarized your tolerance for human interaction? Drive-throughs are your number one. Utilize them well, and utilize them wisely. McDonald’s is literally a hop, skip and a jump from Wakefield and offers a wide variety of burgers and other fun things-like apple pies. Cookout also does specials, but make sure you budget your time as it takes about 15 minutes to get there from school.

I don’t have a fourth period today. Insomnia Cookies has the sheer power in one chocolate chip cookie to brighten up your day tenfold. Krispy Kreme, always the everlasting life of the party, offers doughnuts for $2.

Always remember your lunch pass and drive safely!

(* The Howler does not condone this type of sneakiness)