If we’re being completely honest with ourselves, we’d have to admit that the only reason we were able to power through the bleak, internet-less schooldays of the 90s was because we had one thing and one thing alone to look forward to: Canteen Food. Imagine it: surviving an entire morning of classes with numerous ink doodles on your hands with nothing to play in Computer Class except Paint and Solitaire, and finally making your way to the cafeteria for recess/lunch. You’re welcomed by the familiar smells and noises of the food that made school worth being at:

8. Slush Puppy

Kids who didn’t grow up in the 90s don’t understand the struggle of non-airconditioned classrooms and the sweet, sugary relief of having a Slush Puppy on a hot afternoon.

7. Zagu

The hype was real, and it still is. Growing up with Zagu means that to this day, you are inexplicably drawn to the yellow and black booth for a dose of the original boba drink.

6. Rice in a Box

The true king of the canteen was rice in a box. A lunch hour wouldn’t be complete if at least four of you at the table didn’t order some of that stir-fried goodness.

5. King Corn

King Corn is responsible for the powdered cheese addiction you now suffer in life.

4. Potato Corner

Isang sour cream Giga Fries po!

3. TJ Hotdogs

On a stick, in between buns, or with some day-old rice – it didn’t matter as long as hindi ka naubusan.

2. Lots’a Pizza

Via mallfoodonabudget.wordpress.com

Because they made celebrating your birthdays in school so much easier (and cheaper)!

1. Trolli Gummis

While technically not a “proper” meal, lunch wasn’t quite lunch if you didn’t partake of a Trolli gummi pizza or burger, or even just a handful of worms. That was the great thing about having lunch at the cafeteria – your parents couldn’t tell you off for eating anything (and everything!) you wanted.

What’s your favorite canteen food from the 90s? Let’s reminisce together in the comments!