After a long day of morning classes, all I want to do is find a spot to eat around campus to cheer me up. My options are looking pretty great with Chick-fil-A, Starbucks and Quaker Village close by. 

Now, here comes the big question: which restaurant to choose? 

There are many factors that go into choosing the perfect place to eat. The first order of business is deciding how much you want to eat. Are you looking for a light snack or a fun drink? Or are you looking for a place to have lunch? 

If looking for a snack, fast food is usually the best choice, especially Dunkin’, Chick-fil-A, or McDonald’s. All of these choices have reasonably priced snacks to enjoy. 

On the other hand, Starbucks might not be the best choice for a snack. Although they do have snacks like the classic cake pops ($2.50-$3.50) and bakery items ($3.25-$4.75), they’re more expensive than Dunkin’, which prices its donuts at around $1.70-$2.50 each. Starbucks cake pops are even more expensive than medium-sized Chick-fil-A waffle fries, which are $2.39 on Guilford College Road.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a fun drink, Starbucks and Dunkin’ might be more suitable. 

Although Starbucks is undoubtedly more expensive than Dunkin’, it maintains consistency across all locations. A vanilla latte from Starbucks will usually taste the same no matter where you go. 

Dunkin’, however, is notorious for inconsistency. If you’re like me and prefer the cheaper option regardless of the potential inconsistency, Dunkin’ is the better choice for you. 

Overall, the Guilford College Road Chick-fil-A is the best dining option near campus because of its excellent customer service, great rewards program and variety. 

The customer service at the Chick-Fil-A on Guilford College Road is truly unmatched. Whether you’re just there for a drink or a full meal, Chick-fil-A always has great service and is willing to cater to customer needs.

“It’s so good and personable,” said Guilford student Sam Bao. 

Chick-Fil-A also has an amazing rewards program through the Chick-fil-A app. Not only can you earn rewards from purchases, but the Guilford College Road Chick-fil-A often sends surprise rewards to customers who have the app with no purchase required, which no other dining place around Guilford does. 

Along with great rewards and customer service, Chick-fil-A also has something for every mood. 

With fun drinks, like the Strawberry Hibiscus lemonades, sweet treats like ice cream and cookies, and snacks like their classic waffle fries, there are many options if you want a light snack. 

It’s hard not to mention the delicious lunch items they have to offer. As someone who avoids meat, I love their Southwest Spicy Salad or Mac & Cheese as a vegetarian option. There really is something for everyone here. 

Finding the right restaurant is hard, especially considering the cost and customer experience.

If you are going for a fun drink or snack, Starbucks or Dunkin’ will be your best option. If you want the best of all worlds, Chick-fil-A is your best bet. 

Next time you need a morning or midday pick-me-up, you know where to go.