Take any movie that somehow revolves around college life and you’re likely to find a scene of 20-somethings sitting around a box of pizza. But movies aren’t the real world and hopefully your college experience lasts more than 2 hours. Sooner or later, you’re going to need to add some variety to your diet, and we don’t mean ordering pepperoni instead of sausage. Luckily C-U has arguably the most diverse dining options outside of the Chicago area. So put down that thin slice and explore all the culinary delights C-U has to offer.

Latin

C-U has great options for authentic Latin cuisine, and no, we don’t mean Chipotle. Open after the bars close, La Bamba (606 S. 6th St., C.) is right on campus and the perfect place to get a late-night burrito fix. Venture a little farther off and you’ll find Mas Amigos, which just opened up at 40 E. Springfield Ave., C. to rave reviews, as well as Fiesta Café at 216 S. First St., C. Guadalajara Bar & Grill (912 W. Bloomington Rd., C.), is also a new addition to C-U and worth a try, while Dos Reales (1407 N. Prospect Ave. and 1106 W. University Ave.) and El Toro (1805 S. Neil St.,C.) have been long-time staples of the CU Mexican food scene. For more upscale options, try Escobar’s (6 E. Columbia Ave.) and their Nuevo Latin menu, or the Latin-inspired delicacies of Radio Maria (119 N. Walnut St.).

Sushi/Japanese

If there is one thing C-U has a lot of, it’s places to get sushi. If you’re stuck on campus or need something quick, look no farther than Sushi Rock (621 E. Green St., C.) and Sushi Avenue (403 E. Green St., C.), both located in the heart of Campustown. Another world of sushi awaits you outside of campus.

Boasting large menus and authentic preparation, Yellowfin (303 Cedar St., C.) and Sushi Kame (132 W. Church St., C.), are great places to go if you’re looking to try something new. For a more upscale dining experience, head out to Ko Fusion in the heart of downtown Champaign, especially on Sunday and Monday for dollar sushi night.

Chinese

Much like sushi restaurants, there is no shortage of Chinese restaurants in C-U. Luckily most of them are located right on campus and easily accessible to all residents. Lai Lai Wok (402 E. Green St., C.) has been a favorite of campus residents and boasts one of the largest Chinese menus in town. Bo Bo China (404 E. Green St., C.) and Empire Chinese (410 E. Green St., C.) are also conveniently located in the heart of Campustown. Cravings, at 603 S. Wright St., C., is also regarded for their Orange Chicken and Bubble Tea.

Korean

Though not as prevalent as Chinese or Japanese cuisine, C-U has no shortage of good places to get good Korean food. Good Fella, located at 905 S. Neil St., C. is a great place to go if you’re not familiar with Korean cuisine. The staff is patient and willing to help first-time diners. B-Won, at 2006 S. Neil St. in Champaign, is a little more expensive, but the fresh ingredients and stylish interior make it worth the extra cash.

Vietnamese

If you’re looking for great Vietnamese food, head out to Saigon. At 1333 Savoy Plaza Ln. in Savoy, Saigon is a distance from campus, but easily accessible using C-U’s great public transportation system. Serving both pho, the famous Vietnamese beef stew, and dim sum, small, light dishes, during lunch hours, Saigon is definitely worth a visit. Also, try Xinh Xinh Café (114 N. Vine St., U.). It’s small, quaint, and the staff is willing to please.

Thai

Located on Main Street in Urbana, Siam Terrace is a C-U favorite for authentic Thai cuisine. Voted multiple times as the best Thai food in C-U, the large menu is full of all the Thai usuals, most of which can be prepared to any desired level of spiciness. If you’re looking for something a little closer to campus, Basil Thai, which is situated at 701 S. Gregory St. in Urbana, is also a great option for good, easily accessible Thai food in a pinch.

Whatever your cravings, C-U has the culinary delights to satisfy your needs.

This list is only the a glance at what there is to offer both on and off campus.

So get out, explore and enjoy.