Scholastic Magazine University of Notre Dame's Student Magazine since 1867

Molly Slavin

Remember when Reckers was the home of such culinary masterpieces as the buffalo chicken sandwich and the ever-popular cheese fries? Although these storied items are no longer on the menu, the new school year marks a turning point for the campus’ 24-hour cafe. Students who have ventured to the restaurant in the first weeks of school have doubtless noticed the lack of favorites like tortilla chips and spinach-artichoke dip in favor of healthier options. The replacement of the beloved, greasy flatbread sandwiches with the new, healthier piadinas has fostered some complaints, but others see the new menu as a way to eat better and live a healthier lifestyle.

Senior student manager Katy Janik says, “The new food is a lot fresher than the ingredients we used to use. Everything is made to order. And, overall, the response has definitely been positive. But, it must be said, there have been a few late-night requests for cheese with those fries.”

Those who remain unconvinced can still order some remnants of the good old days. The entire ice cream and smoothie menu remains intact, as does the selection of wood-stove pizzas. Although some students may continue to live in the past (“When I was your age, this place had NACHO CHEESE!”), others embrace the changes in the Reckers menu and sit down to enjoy a nice, healthy piadina. Sans the snappy corn spread.