What Is Your Favorite Cafeteria?

When thoughts of cherished cafeterias cross our minds, it’s often the warmth of memories that accompanies them taking us to a place of comfort. For me, one such cherished spot resides not within the walls of a school, but in the heart of a place like home. Allow me to take you on a delightful journey to a place that holds dear to my heart. As you read on, you may find yourself reminiscing about your own favorite cafeterias. So, let’s travel together with tray and silverware in hand, and embark on a culinary adventure down memory lane. I will refrain from sharing the name of this beloved place in hopes you can identify it from your lived and loved experiences. As we continue our journey, we are greeted with an impressive selection of salads, ranging from crisp tossed salads, carrot and raisin salads to tantalizing congealed creations and the options seem endless. The journey continues to the vegetable section, where we are tempted by an abundance of flavors. Steamed rice, green beans, and cabbage, argue your attention alongside collard greens and butter beans. However, my personal favorite, mac & cheese summons me with its golden crust and hot oozing cheese. Yams, mashed potatoes, broccoli, and other delightful choices represent.

Let’s not forget about the heart of the feast- the entrees. This cafeteria caters to every palate with a delightful selection. We find ourselves torn between fried white fish, baked or good ole’ southern fried chicken with each boasting a golden crust that promises a burst of succulent flavor. Gorgeous baked ham enhanced with pineapple slices and a drizzle of honey entices us, while creamy chicken and dumplings with generous meat potions summon us with their rich flavors leaving us wondering which delicacy to choose. Ah, now comes to my highlight of the meal, you guessed it—the desserts!  Brace yourself for an enticing lineup that ranges from the traditional apple pie and peach cobbler to delectable chocolate cream and buttered coconut pies. The esteemed pecan pie graces the circuit for the running, yet my heart leaps with joy at the sight of my all-time favorite, Lemon Meringue pie. I have been known to travel to my favorite cafeteria to enjoy a slice of this pie on my drive home from work. I just love, love, love this dessert!

Moving on along down the cake line. What is your favorite? Mine is a chocolate three-layer yellow cake with thick chocolate icing, however, they mostly serve chocolate fudge cake. Enough of that, are you getting hungry yet? We are coming to the end of the line and must make our final choices.

What kind of bread will we eat? Will it be Mexican corn bread, soft rolls with butter, garlic toast, biscuits, or classic white bread. And, of course, no meal is complete without a refreshing beverage, let’s see what’s available, they offer sweet and unsweetened tea, coffee, lemonade, and fruit punch. That’s it, get a tally of your choices and pay for your meal on your way out the door!

Have you guessed my favorite cafeteria? Yeah, K&W! It was founded by Grady T. Allred Sr. in 1937. He wanted to provide homestyle southern cooking for communities in North Carolina and Virginia. Today, many of these restaurants have closed due to COVID-19, however, the closest one to the Raleigh Durham area is in Greensboro. So, whether you are a seasoned visitor or yet to experience the joys of K&W Cafeteria, be sure to make it a part of your culinary journey that promises happy memories and happy eating!

Tell me about your Favorite Cafeteria and share your experiences.