Insomnia Cookies

Insomnia Cookies is a well known bakery chain that has recently opened in Burlington. Having recently opened a new location right outside BHS’s doorsteps, they’re known for their variety of flavors and for its late night delivery and hours of operation. After our short walk down we ordered three cookies: one vegan chocolate chip, one peanut butter chip cookie and a regular chocolate chip cookie. We wanted to keep it to the basics to really test the quality.

First, the vegan chocolate chip cookie. “This cookie was warm, crunchy yet doughy, a perfect mixture of ingredients. The experience was a solid 9.5/ 10, with customer service being great,” Privany said. Melissa’s review of the peanut butter deluxe was similar- warm and delicious. “Not overly sweet, a good mixture of flavors. Overall 10/10.” Rose chimed in with her review of a classic, the chocolate chip cookie. “This cookie was delicious, however, it could have been a bit crumblier. They are not a local bakery though, or too [processed], and overall the taste and quality of the cookies were impressive: 9/10.”

One small downside was the pricing. It was decent, but could have been better because 3 dollars for a small chocolate chip cookie from a chain was a bit pricey, and 5 dollars for a deluxe cookie is a bit too much.

Cafe Hot

Slightly past Piesanos, our chosen breakfast place is a bit further of a walk from BHS, but still convenient for students. Now fair warning, this place is not an everyday spot unless you’ve got funds galore. The day that we win the lottery, will be followed by days on end of Cafe Hot breakfast and studying before school. Once we got to the tucked away cafe, we perused the menu and settled on an array of 3 pastries: chocolate meringue puff, salted caramel donut and a black sesame cider donut. While we chose specifically pastries, we will also give our input on their sandwiches, as seasoned Cafe Hot enthusiasts.

Privany rated her caramel donut a 8.5/10. “It’s really salty. But it’s still a good flavor, the service here was good, and it’s Cafe Hot, so.” The chocolate meringue puff didn’t hit as hard for Melissa- she gave it a 6.5/10. “It’s ok… too sweet for me.” Rose went for the 10/10. She liked how filling the donuts are, not too light. The black sesame cider hit the spot between too sweet and not sweet enough.

She then made a clear note, “The breakfast sandwich: the crispy cheese is incredible, and they always make my eggs the way I like them. The whole thing is so flavorful, cohesive, tangy, savory, and mouth watering.” Privany seconded this sentiment, recalling really liking the chicken fried egg as well. Though it is expensive- upwards of 30 dollars for two sandwiches, about 14 for three pastries, the place is good. As we know, their strong flavoring doesn’t always rate well, but we think most can find a delicious meal at Cafe Hot.

Piesanos

Located toward the end of Church Street, Piesanos Pizza is a convenient lunch spot, just a short walk from the school. The atmosphere is inviting with lovely windows, and the menu offers a variety of cold drinks, desserts and more. Our orders came out quickly, though we hoped for more flavor in some dishes.

Rose kicked things off with a chicken bacon ranch slice. Her verdict? “It’s yummy, the crust isn’t as good as I thought it would be. 7/10.” Privany, on the other hand, had the broccoli alfredo pasta but felt it was lacking. “Mine needs more salt. And spending 13 dollars on this, it should be better.” Melissa’s classic cheese pizza was tasty, but she noted, “It was burnt and doesn’t have much sauce or cheese [though].” There was even some disagreement: “TOO much salt,” Melissa remarked.

By the end of the meal, Rose revised her rating down to a 5/10, citing the need for more warmth and flavor. “Honestly a little bland.” Privany, appreciating the cleanliness and quiet atmosphere, gave it an 8/10. Melissa settled at 7.5/10, saying it was fine but should have been served warmer.

Gaku Ramen

Gaku Ramen is an eight year old ramen and bowl place on the bottom block of church street. All of our first time trying it, we were very pleased! Privany and Rose split a veggie shoyu ramen bowl, and Melissa got a chicken ramen. We also got a side of pork dumplings. Dumplings is not an accurate word for what they were, because they were savory heaven filled droplets. “They are so fluffy and light. Flavored perfectly and they are incredible.” 

Melissa couldn’t muster any bad comments. “It’s delicious. That’s all I have to say.” We all agreed the whole thing was pretty affordable and in a great place. As we distributed the ramen without spilling, we coined ourselves “women in steam.” “I love the noodles, they hit the spot. Could be flavored more but great. Probably 8/10, maybe 9,” Privany said. Rose gave Gaku an 8/10, Melissa gave it a 10/10, and added the service was speedy. We did note the seaweed garnish was NOT ENJOYABLE. “We are not into that weed. Or any weed.”