You'll be spending a lot of time in the caf this year; most likely way more than you think. I remember some meals where I would look at the clock and an hour would have gone by -- my friends and I were simply talking and having good conversations. For a full overview of the caf, check out a written tour of the caf I did early this year.
TIP ONE: Be creative with creating your meals.
After a few weeks, you might fall into a caf rut: you eat the same things for each meal. Change it up by thinking outside the box. Mix stations together such as chicken from the hot food line with a salad or chicken in the pasta. Yum! Or if that doesn't work, try cereal for dinner (that's always a nice change of pace).
TIP TWO: You must try the hot sandwiches at lunch.
THEY. ARE. DELICIOUS. Pizza Bob is the chef who whips them up and boy, are they worth standing in line for. It's a perfect lunch food, especially if you pair it with a cup of soup once it gets chilly outside. Or, for these first few weeks, try a sandwich and a salad.
TIP THREE: The different sized tables create different eating atmospheres so pick what you're feeling.
Let me explain. Round tables are great for a large group of people who don't mind getting cozy. My friends and I have crowded 15 or so people around a round table a few times last year. People just grab chairs and pile around. There are lots of conversations going on at once and lots of laughter. If you're looking for something a bit quieter, try a small square table (for four or so) or even more quiet, a booth. There are also the long tables in the middle of the caf which are also for big groups but since you're spaced more out, it becomes a lot of mini groups at one large table. Try sitting everywhere and find out what you like best!
TIP FOUR: Always say hi to Pam during the week.
Pam is the lady who scans your card during the week for lunch and dinner. She is a FANTASTIC woman; she loves the students of Coe. She even came to Pres Ball last year, took pictures, had them all developed and put them on boards we could check out on Monday morning! Pam learns everyone names and she loves talking to us. Make sure you get to know her and catch up with her when you can.