cat food

Wildcat File Photo Arizona Daily Wildcat

The menu offers traditional burger choices, as well as a few vegetarian options, such as grilled cheese ($2.85), and a remarkable veggie burger called the Streamlinerª ($4.25). This unusually meat-like patty comes with plenty on it. In fact, the Streamlinerª could use some streamlining itself, particularly in terms of the heap of greasy grilled onions provided.

My companion tried the Original ($3.75), a basic burger with the usual fixings, and found it less than interesting, noting that she expects more from a "restaurant burger." The buns on both the Original and the Streamlinerª were predictable, the kind usually seen at barbecues, and didn't contribute much to our meal.

Side orders such as the American fries ($1.65) and onion rings ($2.85) are not included with Johnny Rockets' burgers. The fries were dry and tasteless, but the onion rings were exceptional - perfectly crisp and accompanied by a side of ranch dressing.

Service at Johnny Rockets was efficient but rushed. Our food came out promptly, but our otherwise friendly server asked us repeatedly if we were ready to pay and then stood by the table until we did so. Maybe this is due to inexperience, or possibly policy.

It also seemed to be policy that employees sing and dance to the music played at Johnny Rockets. While some waiters clapped enthusiastically, others looked slightly horrified by what they were doing. It's hard to blame people who work in a restaurant where the B-52s' "Love Shack" is played three times in the space of a half hour.

Johnny Rockets, despite its failings, should be a welcome addition to the University. Although my friend, a dour New Yorker, gritted her teeth throughout the ordeal, most diners appeared to enjoy the cheerful atmosphere, even singing along with the servers. We can all use some schmaltz with our lunch.