Typical high school cafeteria’s serve the same dreaded “slop” everyday all day with that same mundane continuation. But at DC’s number 1 public high school, lunch is different. A diverse menu serving breakfast and lunch, many students are regulars of the cafeteria not just because it is the only school dining option, but by choice.

“I eat the school lunch everyday,” says senior Prince Green. “The food everyday is almost never the same and I genuinely enjoy every meal that I have here.”

Others like sophomore Demi Haynes state their dislike for the cafeteria food, “I could never eat lunch here at Banneker,” she says. “I bring my own lunch to school and I will always enjoy that food more.”

Despite the opposing views on Banneker’s lunch food, one thing is for certain – it is a healthy dining option for all. Fresh fruit is always available in the form of pears, apples, bananas, and even (my personal favorite) plantains. Staple proteins in the form of hamburgers, chicken, beef and vegetarian options like veggie burgers are always available. Vegetables are always served alongside meals in the form of corn, green beans, leafy greens, celery, cucumbers and other fibrous foods.  Whole grains grace the food tray in forms like rice, whole wheat bread and lasagna.

All of these foods come together to model the healthy plate diagram perfectly. Banneker continues to innovate and come up with new ways to satiate the school’s hunger effectively and nutritiously. Even teachers like Mr. Cash advocate for the school’s lunch. “It is an A+ meal”!