At noon, the lunch bell sends Irvington High School students out in every direction. Some stay on campus, while many head off-campus to nearby food spots, walking quickly to beat the clock. Whether it’s grabbing something fast or escaping cafeteria food for a day, these spots have become an important part of the student routine. This feature looks at a few lunch stops: Tapioca Express, Walgreens, Maple Leaf Donuts, and Pizza and Curry—a lesser student-visited option—and what makes each one worth stopping by.
Tapioca Express is one of the most recognizable spots near Irvington, with a steady student crowd and location. The distinct smell of cooking and the loud Indian music fill the space, adding to the energy. Overall, the atmosphere feels fun and welcoming.
Most people come to Tapioca Express for snacks and drinks, and the menu has a few standouts. The curly fries are a staple, especially when paired with the chi chi sauce. The mozzarella sticks are another favorite and best enjoyed with the same chi chi sauce. For drinks, one popular option is the lychee passion fruit boba. It’s light and fruity, making for a refreshing drink.
Because of the noise and constant movement, Tapioca Express feels more like a hangout than a study spot. It’s the kind of place to enjoy after a test or to spend time with friends.
While Tapioca Express is more casual, some places are all about speed and convenience, and that’s where Walgreens comes in.
Students usually come to Walgreens for quick, grab-and-go options. The store has a wide range of snacks, protein bars, and cold drinks. There’s also a variety of convenient meal and dessert options. The experience can be a little chaotic, especially during peak lunchtime, but it’s a daily stop for students.
Right next to Tapioca Express, Maple Leaf Donuts is easy to miss; but once you step inside, the first thing you notice is the warm smell. It immediately sets a different tone from the louder, busier spots.
Maple Leaf Donuts keeps things simple, and that’s part of its appeal. The classic donuts—glazed, chocolate, sprinkled—stand out more than the specialty options. The chocolate donut is soft and sweet, while the sprinkled donut is light and airy, just sweet enough. Both are comforting and perfect for a quick snack.
Maple Leaf Donuts works best in the early morning before school or later in the day when cravings hit. It’s a low-key favorite for those who enjoy donuts.
Located in the plaza near TPumps, Pizza and Curry doesn’t get as much traffic as some of the other spots, but it stands out for its unique flavors. The restaurant is simple and quiet, without the high energy of nearby boba shops.
The menu is a mix of classic pizzas and Indian-inspired options. The chili paneer pizza and the desi cheese bread are a tasty combo. The pizza has a nice kick from the chili paneer, which complements the sauce. The desi bread is warm and cheesy, and the chutney pairs perfectly with the richness of the cheese. The menu items are flavorful and filling, making them worth a visit.
While it’s not as busy during lunch, Pizza and Curry is a solid choice for students looking for something different. Its different portion sizings and bold flavors make it a unique choice.
These four spots show the variety in Irvington students’ lunchtime routines. Together, they highlight how students balance energy, food, and brief escapes from campus life.
