Golden Crust Pizza

Providence/North Providence

Pizza was one of our college staples too, so this was a no-brainer. Golden Crust Pizza has everything a collegian needs, including 4 am delivery seven days a week! Students mention the house specialty Buffalo chicken -- spicy with a nice balance of blue cheese. Golden Crust features many specials that fit the tight budget of our survey takers. $6.99 gets you any wrap on the menu, a bag of chips and a soda. Perfect for those times when dining hall food won't do it.

228 Oakland Ave

(401) 273-2288

Wise Guys Deli

Providence

This is one of those spots where the kitschy name belies some good food. Located on Federal Hill, Wise Guys is a very good example of an old-school sandwich shop that gets it right. The sandwiches are, of course, named after famous gangsters. Students like the Frank Lucas (both the man and the pizza). Lucas preached "being cool" and the BBQ sauce and caramelized onions on this pie do the trick. On the sandwich side, check out the Il Padrino with prosciutto and mozzarella. And, says one student, the cheese fries are to die for.

133 Atwells Ave.

(401) 621-8111

UMelt

Providence/Kingston

It's not a shocker that culinary students love UMelt. We wrote about them last year on our Best Grilled Cheese list. Well the memory-evoking childhood fave crosses all age groups in America. These are fun and funky grilled cheeses. The chefs-to-be say check out the BBQ pulled pork, the Chipster--with bacon and BBQ Cape Cod potato chips providing a nice crunch--or the dessert version with Nutella and honey-roasted bananas. They all push the envelope...in a good way. Check the website for locations and menu.

Trinity Brewhouse

Providence

Can you believe how long Trinity Brewhouse has been in business? We've been going to Trinity for the delicious, house-brewed beer and the pub food longer than our student advisers have been alive. Trinity's one of the most decorated local breweries around, and now a new generation likes them too. Their beers have won awards at a wide array of beer festivals, their pub food is good, and kids like the nightly specials for everything from wings to free pool. Check the website for the complete list.

186 Fountain St.

(401) 453-2337

Ladder 133

Providence

We've also written about Ladder 133 before--this is us trying to fit in with the students and stave off old age--as one of the really good options for bar food and a spot to watch a big game. For local culinary students, Ladder 133 features award winning wings, interesting burgers and good grilled pizzas. They also love the chilli here. On a cold winter day--or night--it will warm you through and through, they agree. This is another spot that features specials almost daily that will put lots of food in the belly for little money.

133 Douglas Ave.

(401) 272-7427