Starving Students

Category: Budget Eats

Cheap eats with great value. Great for students and people on a budget!

  • Triple O’s at Douglas College: A Convenient and Tasty Student Bite

    Between lectures, assignments, and group projects, students need quick, satisfying meals that won’t take up too much time—or money. If you’re studying at Douglas College’s Coquitlam campus and looking for a fast food option right on campus, Triple O’s is a solid go-to. It offers a good balance of convenience, quality, and value relative to other nearby options.

    What is Triple O’s?

    Triple O’s is a well-known Canadian fast food chain, an offshoot of the classic White Spot restaurant. It’s famous for its juicy burgers, signature Triple “O” sauce, hand-scooped milkshakes, and crispy fries. The Douglas College location brings this comfort food right to students, making it a convenient option for a quick meal between classes.

    Why Students Love Triple O’s

    • Super Convenient – Located right on the Douglas College campus, making it perfect for grabbing a meal between lectures.
    • Classic Comfort Food – Burgers, fries, and shakes—perfect for satisfying those cravings.
    • Quick Service – Orders come out fast, so you won’t waste time waiting in long lines.
    • Tasty Burgers – Their signature burgers, topped with Triple O’s sauce, are well-loved for their juicy and flavorful taste.
    • Breakfast Options – They offer a solid breakfast menu, great for students with early morning classes.
    • Triple O’s Tuesday Deals – Every Tuesday, you can get their Original Burger for a discounted price, making it one of the best times for students to grab a meal without breaking the bank.

    Some Drawbacks to Consider

    • Limited Seating – Since it’s a small campus location, finding a spot to sit during busy hours can be tough.
    • Not the Best Study Spot – High school students also have access to this location, making it extremely busy in the middle of the day. The crowded atmosphere can make it difficult to find a quiet space to study.
    • Not the Healthiest Option – While delicious, most menu items are on the heavier, greasier side, which might not be ideal for those looking for lighter meals.

    Best Triple O’s Items to Try

    • Original Triple O’s Burger – Their classic burger with the signature sauce that keeps customers coming back.
    • Spicy Ultimate Crunch Burger – A crispy, spicy chicken sandwich that’s packed with flavor.
    • Garlic Parmesan Fries – A tasty twist on their classic fries, loaded with garlicky goodness.
    • Hand-Scooped Milkshakes – Thick, creamy, and available in classic flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry.
    • Breakfast Muffin – A solid morning option if you need something quick and filling before class.

    Price & Value

    Compared to other dining options near campus, Triple O’s offers reasonable pricing for the quality of food. Burgers range from $8-$12, and full combo meals (including fries and a drink) often cost between $14-$18. Milkshakes and specialty fries add extra costs, but the portions are decent for the price. The Triple O’s Tuesday Deal makes their Original Burger much more affordable, so taking advantage of this discount is a great way for students to save money.

    Final Verdict: Is Triple O’s Worth It?

    Triple O’s at Douglas College is a convenient option when you need a quick and satisfying meal. While it may not be the absolute cheapest option, it provides good value relative to other restaurants in the area. For students looking to save, stopping by on a Tuesday for the Triple O’s deal is the best way to get the most bang for your buck.

    Pro Tip: If you want to save some cash, check for student discounts or grab a combo during special promotions!

    Have you tried Triple O’s at Douglas College? Let us know your go-to order in the comments below, and stay tuned for more student-friendly food reviews on Starving Students!

    Check out the menu here: https://www.tripleos.com/

  • Nemesis Cafe Surrey Pavilion

    Coffee is nearly a student’s lifeline. What’s a better way of getting through all-nighters to ace your exam? A cup of coffee of course- and Nemesis cafe has you covered.

    Nemesis Cafe just opened up near SFU’s Surrey Campus! Located next to the Engineering building, it’s a bustling place full of great energy, friendly staff, and delicious pastries and coffees.  

    How does it appeal to students?

    1. Affordable Treats – Grab your favourite pastries for a few bucks( $4-$6)! A great blend of sweet treats that don’t hurt your pockets.
    2. Comforting Drinks – Coffee, Tea, or Hot chocolates? Nemesis has you covered. Order a drink and they’ll serve you it in a great cup with latte art, and at a drinkable temperature! No waiting around and no sign of burning your tongue- great for a quick drink during long study sessions.
    3. Range of Flavors – Original pastries to danishes of great flavor, they have a treat for all your needs. Drinks can be flavored as well to crave that sweet tooth.
    4. Relaxing Study Spot–  A bustling vibe but nothing too distracting- spacious tables, various seating, and being close to campus makes it a great place to chill, study, or meet friends.

    Top Items to Try

    • Tiramisu Croissant – A staple of theirs, a large flaky croissant with mascarpone on top dusted with cocoa powder! Not only does it taste good, but it’s tasty for the eyes 
    • Pistachio Swirl – A flaky delight of a croissant in a new shape- a swirl! Brushed with honey and topped with pistachio, it’s a great filling treat that is great for those who don’t want something too sweet.

    Price & Value

    For students on a budget, Nemesis Cafe offers great value-for-money treats. With pastries and drinks ranging from $4-$6, you can enjoy a high-quality snack and drink combo for roughly $12. 

    Final Verdict: Is Nemesis Cafe Worth It?

    Yes! If you’re looking for a comfortable study spot, Nemesis is a great option. A quick pick-me-up treat and a coffee are staples here, and the general atmosphere makes you want to come back! Whether you need a light snack between classes, a sweet pick-me-up, or a cozy café to study in, this spot ticks all the boxes.

    Pro Tip: Try pairing your bun with a warm drink for the ultimate comfort food experience!

    Have you tried nemesis Cafe before? Let us know your favorite items in the comments below, and stay tuned for more student-friendly food reviews on Starving Students!

    Check out the menu here: https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0570/9499/6149/fi

  • Jollibee: A Comfort Food Haven for Hungry Students

    When hunger strikes and you’re craving something hearty, delicious, and budget-friendly, Jollibee is a go-to spot that never disappoints. Known as the Philippines’ most beloved fast-food chain, Jollibee brings its unique twist on classic comfort foods—making it a must-try for students looking for an affordable and satisfying meal.

    What is Jollibee?

    Jollibee is a Filipino fast-food chain famous for its crispy fried chicken, sweet-style spaghetti, and iconic peach mango pie. While it competes with other fast-food giants, its distinct flavors, generous portions, and student-friendly prices set it apart. Whether you’re in the mood for savory or sweet, Jollibee has something for everyone.

    Why Students Love Jollibee

    1. Affordable Combo Meals – Jollibee offers big portions at student-friendly prices, with combo meals starting around $6-$10.
    2. Crispylicious Chickenjoy – Their signature fried chicken is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and comes with delicious gravy.
    3. Sweet-Style Jolly Spaghetti – Unlike traditional spaghetti, Jollibee’s version is sweet, cheesy, and packed with slices of hotdog, making it uniquely comforting.
    4. Fast & Convenient – Whether you need a quick bite between classes or a full meal after a long study session, Jollibee is a great option.
    5. Perfect for Sharing – Many of Jollibee’s meals come in family-sized portions, so you and your friends can split the cost and enjoy together.

    Best Jollibee Items to Try

    • Chickenjoy – Jollibee’s signature fried chicken, served with steamed rice or fries and their famous gravy.
    • Jolly Spaghetti – Sweet, cheesy, and nostalgic for many Filipino students—definitely a must-try.
    • Yumburger – A simple but flavorful burger with a signature Jollibee dressing.
    • Peach Mango Pie – A crispy, flaky turnover filled with sweet mango and peach filling.
    • Halo-Halo – A refreshing Filipino dessert with crushed ice, jellies, beans, and leche flan, perfect for a sweet treat.

    Price & Value

    Jollibee is one of the best value-for-money fast-food chains out there. With combo meals typically ranging from $6 to $10, you can get a filling meal without going over budget. Plus, their bucket meal options are great for sharing with friends, making it a solid choice for group meals.

    Final Verdict: Is Jollibee Worth It?

    Absolutely! If you’re a student looking for affordable comfort food with a unique twist, Jollibee is a fantastic option. Whether you’re grabbing a quick Chickenjoy meal, satisfying your sweet tooth with a Peach Mango Pie, or trying the Jolly Spaghetti for the first time, Jollibee delivers flavor, value, and nostalgia all in one place.

    Pro Tip: Try the Chickenjoy with extra gravy for dipping—it’s a game-changer!

    Have you been to Jollibee? Let us know your favorite meal in the comments below, and stay tuned for more student-friendly food reviews on Starving Students!

  • Japarrito: A Budget-Friendly Sushi Burrito for Hungry Students

    When you’re a student, finding a meal that balances affordability, flavor, and convenience can feel like striking gold. If you’re craving sushi but don’t want to break the bank, let us introduce you to Japarrito—the ultimate sushi burrito that’s satisfying, portable, and most importantly, budget-friendly.

    What is Japarrito?

    Japarrito is a fusion of Japanese flavors wrapped in a convenient burrito-style package. Think of it as a supersized sushi roll, loaded with fresh ingredients and bold flavors, all bundled up in a seaweed wrap instead of a tortilla. It’s the perfect grab-and-go meal for students juggling classes, assignments, and social life.

    Why Students Love Japarrito

    1. Big Portions, Small Price – One Japarrito is enough to keep you full without needing to spend extra on sides. It’s a hearty option for those long study sessions or after-class hunger pangs.
    2. Fresh Ingredients – Unlike some fast-food alternatives, Japarrito offers a variety of fresh seafood, crispy vegetables, and flavorful sauces to make every bite delicious.
    3. Customizable Options – Whether you love classic sushi flavors like salmon and avocado, or prefer a spicy kick with tuna and sriracha mayo, there’s a Japarrito for you.
    4. Fast and Convenient – It’s easy to eat on the go, making it a great alternative to sushi rolls that require chopsticks and dipping sauces.

    Best Japarrito Flavors to Try

    Here are some top picks to help you decide what to order:

    • Spicy Tuna – Fresh tuna, crunchy tempura bits, and spicy mayo for a flavorful kick.
    • Shoyu Salmon – A simple yet classic choice with creamy avocado and fresh salmon.
    • BBQ Eel – For those who love a slightly sweet, smoky flavor.
    • Vegetarian – Packed with tofu, cucumbers, avocado, and sesame seeds for a light yet filling option.

    Price & Value

    Depending on the location, a Japarrito typically costs around $8-$12, which is a great deal considering its size and quality. Some places even offer student discounts or combo deals, so be sure to ask!

    Final Verdict: Is Japarrito Worth It?

    Absolutely. If you’re a sushi lover looking for a more affordable and filling option, Japarrito is a must-try. It’s tasty, portable, and perfect for students who need a quick meal between classes without sacrificing quality.

    Pro Tip: Check out local deals or lunch specials to get even more bang for your buck!

    Have you tried Japarrito before? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below, and stay tuned for more budget-friendly food reviews on Starving Students!

    Check out the menu here: https://m.japarrito.com/