Big Rapp Daddy’s – Grade: A

Almost right behind the back doors of DuSable Hall is the newly opened, family-owned eatery, Big Rapp Daddy’s, 817 W. Lincoln Highway. In the same spot where University Subs used to be, the convenient location and student-friendly prices make it the perfect place for a quick lunch after class.

Atmosphere:

The brightly colored walls and casual seating offer a bright and warm place to meet with friends or finish up that last-minute homework assignment while getting a bite to eat. TVs allow sports fans to catch up on their favorite teams, and an old arcade game adds a bit of nostalgia. In fact, the only negative aspect of the atmosphere in Big Rapp Daddy’s was the music selection. It isn’t easy to keep an appetite with the “Mamma Mia” soundtrack blaring out of the speakers.

Service:

The staff members all wear red and black as they proudly support their NIU neighbors and greet all patrons with a warm welcome and a smile. They were very kind and even helped recommend menu items to first-time customers when it was too difficult to decide just what to get.

Food:

Even though the restaurant is known for the Rapp Family Fried Chicken (served in generous portions), the burgers are not to be ignored. These babies are a whopping one-third of a pound, but the Big Daddy Burger (half a pound of meat along with pepper bacon, cheddar cheese and steak sauce) is so packed with flavor, it is hard to put down to have a chance to breathe. The fries are amazing as well. They’re thin, crispy and not too salty.

Price:

With daily specials and the “Burger Basket Blast” on Saturdays, Big Rapp Daddy’s offers affordable meals for a student’s budget. The Saturday basket special, which goes from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., provides for a free drink and order of fries with every burger purchased.

Overall:

Big Rapp Daddy’s has only been open for a couple of months now, but with great food, reasonable prices and an even better location, this new joint is bound to become the next lunchtime hot spot for students.