The Collegian

Issue date: 10/22/09 Section: Arts

Media Credit: Michal Elseth

Most of us cook as an alternative to Saga, Inc. Junior Ben Shelton finds ways to make the most of what Saga, Inc. offers.

Shelton said he likes to cook at home, but on campus he hones his strategies for better eating in Knorr Family Dining Room.

"First, I go in and look at all the food options, then I ask Dale [Curtis] what's good," he said.

For instance, Shelton has mastered Taco Tuesday. His specialty? The double-decker taco, where he wraps beans in a warmed-up soft shell around a hard shell filled with choice toppings.

While waffles at Saga, Inc. can supplement any breakfast and lunch, Shelton said it's better to avoid the fake maple syrup. An apple topping is a good way to go, he said. Or, if he asks a Saga, Inc. employee, he can usually get powdered sugar from the back to sprinkle on top of his waffles.

And for lunch and dinner Shelton has found a way to upgrade the classic burger.

"If you get to be friends with the grill masters, they can make you a better burger," he said.

Those grill masters are freshman Isaac Fujikawa and sophomore Nate Jebb. Working the grill together, they go beyond making ordinary burgers, offering their patrons San Francisco melts, Monte Cristo sandwiches and hamburger patties marinated in a top secret sauce.

"This kid's good," said junior Sam Neidow, taking a burger from Jebb. "If I owned a business, I would hire him."

Putting an arm around Fujikawa, Jebb casually pointed to Neidow's burger.

"That's the end, and we're the means," he said.

Jebb also specializes in beverages. He makes cranberry iced tea and adds a black straw and crushed ice for taste. He said he and Shelton have also made Orange Juliuses together. [is this at Saga, Inc. or not? I think this is irrelevant]

"It's really about innovation," said Jebb. "If I've put a little bit of myself into it, then I enjoy it."

Apple-Brown Sugar Waffle Topping:
Cut one apple into small pieces. Add a generous amount of butter, brown sugar and raisins from the breakfast counter. Heat the apple mixture in the microwave for one or two minutes, until apples are soft. Pour over waffle and enjoy.

Build your own Roasted Red Pepper Pizza
Instead of having sauce on your pizza, choose olive oil. Top with roasted red peppers, tomatoes, and a generous sprinkling of mozzarella cheese.

Orange Julius, Saga, Inc.-Style
Ask an employee for crushed ice. Add vanilla frozen yogurt and orange juice. And, in the words of Jebb, "stir to taste."

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