Are you hungry? UHCL student shares best places to eat on campus

July 6, 2022 | UHCL Staff

Between the Patio Café and the food trucks on University of Houston-Clear Lake's campus, there's no shortage of options for students when hunger strikes. Whether you're dining in the Café or expanding your culinary horizons by ordering at one of the food trucks offering quick cuisine from around the world, Hawks know that studying works up an appetite.

Senior Joe Contreras, an avowed foodie, is sharing his favorites, ranging from healthy with lots of veggies, to new spins on old favorites.

Tandoori Nite: "I always try to go to this truck when it's here," Contreras said. "It's just really good Indian cuisine. I love Indian food, and my favorites are the butter chicken, the tandoori chicken, and the chicken tikki masala. They're a little spicy, but I have a high spice tolerance. This is one of the best Indian places I've tried."

Guasakaca: For those who enjoy venturing into new culinary territory, this truck features Venezuelan cuisine and Contreras said it's his other favorite lunch stop. Guasakaca is essentially Venezuela's version of guacamole - it includes avocado, fresh herbs, green peppers, jalapeno, vinegar and lime juice.

"It starts with a base, like tortilla, tostada or plantains, and then you build it yourself by adding sauces and vegetables," he said. "Your spice level depends on what you put in it. You add protein, like chicken, tofu, beef or pork."

Of course, the Patio Café is always on hand with new menu items that Contreras describes as "comforting."

";I am a chicken quesadillas person," he said. "I like the ones at the Patio Café. They're home style, they remind you of something your family would make. I like those comfort meals a lot. They change them every day and if I want something quick, I'll get this chicken quesadillas."

On-campus dining isn't just a basic necessity anymore - it's part of the experience of going to college. The food trucks are on campus Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. during the fall and spring semesters.