Shaw’s 88 — not that disappointing

Something is missing on campus at Utah State University.

We’ve got a fair spread of sandwiches and wraps, between Luke’s Cafe and the Hub’s In B’Tween. We have some sort of ethnic variety, or whatever you’d call the Teriyaki Bull. There’s mildly satisfying pizza, stellar donuts, and intensely sugary fruit and yogurt parfaits.

But we’re still missing something.

When I heard that Huntsman Hall would have a new restaurant, I had a renewed sense of hope. Maybe a smoothie bar? A variety of locally sourced cheese sticks? The classic mac n’ cheese?

I’ll be honest, I’d heard rumors that Shaw’s 88 would serve macaroni and cheese. I probably contributed in spreading those rumors, which eventually circled back and only encouraged me more. I broke my heart. I’m the worst.

Ultimately, Shaw’s 88 did bring something new to campus: a salad bar.

I’m not afraid to disclose my stance on salads — I’m strongly against them. The only good salad is a giant crouton with tomato sauce and cheese, and it’s actually pizza.

You can imagine my disappointment. The salad bar had a variety of greens, toppings and dressing.

Shaw’s 88 does have its redeeming qualities — it carries a few flavors of Aggie Ice Cream, for instance. There’s a panini grill. But no paninis. What’s with that? Shaw’s 88 also has a great view of the Island and southern Cache Valley. There is plenty of seating, and it’s not impossible to find your study buddy in an maze of chairs, tables and pillars (*cough* Hub *cough*).

Shaw’s 88 brings a different vibe to campus. It’s perfectly suited for the business school — like its students, Shaw’s 88 is sleek. Although it carries healthy, protein-packed options, it probably appeals to many students. I feel like eating there will make you successful.

I guess it’s fine that Shaw’s 88 exists. But I would like to publicly express my full support of a macaroni and cheese option on campus.

— Brenna Kelly is a sophomore majoring in journalism. Her favorite restaurant on campus is Noodles & Company… or at least it would be, if the TSC didn’t have such high rent and strict dining policies.