What do the students want?

Students at Indiana University Kokomo are requesting more well-balanced and reasonably priced lunch options on and near campus. It’s easy to get burnt out on chicken wraps and pizza from the Cougar Cafe during the semester. However, it seems there are very few options surrounding IUK that provide a fulfilling meal at a reasonable price.

IUK is located in a low income area, next to a food desert and low vehicle access zone. All the major fast food chains are less than a mile from campus: McDonald’s, Burger King, Subway, and Wendy’s. This can make it difficult when deciding what to grab for lunch if you didn’t pack your own.

Surprisingly, there are a few non-fast food options near campus that have more inclusive menus and reasonable pricing. IUK Student’s Healthy Eating Alliance has compiled a list of their favorite places to go.

IUKSHEA is a student group advocating for healthier, more diverse, and affordable meal options.

Yoke Social Table — 1928 S. Washington St. Kokomo, Indiana

The menu features simple ingredients serving complex flavors that melt in the mouth. Run, don’t walk… seriously! There is a sidewalk from campus to their location, just head south on Washington. Don’t forget your crimson card — Yoke also provides a 10% student discount.

Lucky Lemon Bakery — 3015 S Lafountain St. Kokomo, Indiana

Kokomo’s only vegan restaurant offers a selection of baked goods and lunch items Tuesday through Saturday. The menu includes sandwiches/wraps, and salads with protein alternatives such as Impossible meat, tofu, and house-made seitan.

Panera — 1941 S Reed Rd. Kokomo, Indiana

This option is not so accessible by foot, but such a short journey down the road in a car or possibly bike. Panera is a quick option with a well organized ordering system through the mobile app. The value duets start at $7.99 for different combinations of soups, salads, and sandwiches — including vegetarian options!

Frittata’s — 306 Espanol Dr. Kokomo, Indiana

This option is a 14 minute walk from IUK! Only one minute by car, this breakfast centered restaurant is extremely popular with Kokomo locals. They are quick to get you seated, ordered, and served, despite its popularity. They have well balanced options for breakfast that will leave you full and nourished. All of their dishes are packed with protein, dairy, and veggies. If you’re not a fan of breakfast food, they also have a variety of options for lunchtime. The only downside is that there aren’t many vegan or vegetarian options, and that they are only open until two in the afternoon everyday, and they are closed on Mondays.

Follow @IUKSHEA on Instagram to learn more ways to live a healthier, happier lifestyle as a student on campus.