After ten years of being stuck on campus for lunch and flex, upperclassmen finally gain the privilege of long lunch during their junior and senior years. A much coveted tradition, deciding just where exactly to go can get complicated quickly. Here are the media office’s recommendations for off-campus lunch, taking into account location, service, food, price, and atmosphere.

#10: Bojangles is a staple fast food stop. The low prices and large variety of choices place it in our top ten. On the atmosphere, junior Lindsey Ross explains, “I love going to Bojangles because I always see my grandma and her book club!”

#9: Smithfields is a great stop for Friday afternoons. The welcoming atmosphere, fantastic service, and tasty southern food cause this establishment to land on the Media Office’s list, only kept toward the bottom due the lofty prices.

#8: Brians: A gem in the mine of Rocky Mount restaurants, Brians is now an option for upperclassmen with the new hour-long lunch period. With great food, free ice cream, and a 50’s diner atmosphere, Brian’s is only held back by its inconvenient location.

#7: Honey Baked is classic choice for long lunch and even more popular for RMA students on half days. The familiar faces, great sandwiches, and reasonable prices make for an enjoyable outing for students.

#6: Italian Pizzaria: Close to campus and fairly cheap, this restaurant boasts some of Rocky Mount’s best Italian food. Although the service may be subpar on occasion, Italian Pizzaria is one of the best sit-down places around.

#5: Cookout is great for good, cheap food to bring back to campus to eat in the courtyard or cafeteria. It seems to be very popular among high school boys at RMA.

#4: Zaxbys is another favorite of RMA students. They offer delicious chicken served in a variety of ways, a drink machine with over a thousand options, and a welcoming sit-down atmosphere.

#3: Central: Rocky Mount’s very own Central has the best hamburgers and hot dogs in the area. If you do not mind heading downtown, Central can make for the perfect Friday afternoon outing.

#2: Jersey Mikes is a great stop if you are looking for a great submarine sandwich. I personally recommend the number seven Mike’s way.

#1: Chick Fila: You can absolutely never go wrong with Chick Fila. The fantastic service, great food, and low prices make this dining establishment top the list at number one. It is also owned and operated by RMA’s very own Lehnes family.

Dark Horse: Wendys is an underrated and infrequently utilized option by RMA students for long lunch. The food is solid and frosties are the best possible fast food dessert option.