A Taste of the Bend

Perhaps one of the largest hurdles to overcome when assimilating to a new (and totally foreign) culture is its food. The South Bend Program excels in this area, however; the cafeterias provide dining options from all over the world. This hasn't stopped us from trying a few of the more "unusual" items in local cuisine:



This picture shows Laura braving an unusual dish--roasted red pepper hummus and cottage cheese (we are not sure if they technically go together)--on pita sections. She reported that the appetizer was surprisingly good.



In the right picture, Sarah is eating a so-called "sandwhich", variously referred to as a hoagie, sub, or grinder in other parts of the world. Apparently, South Benders prefer a high lettuce-to-meat ratio, even if they're not vegetarian.



Here is what I ate: pasta with pesto sauce, french fries, a banana, and "coconut" cream pie. The drink is either called pop or soda, depending on who you ask (IDK what this even means?). In the picture that follows, you will see me successfully opening my banana in the style of the South Bend locals.



Notice in the background the unusual sculpture on the wall. Various replicas appear around campus here. Apparently it's a big part of Bender culture... I'm not quite sure what it represents. :-)