Stressed over midterms? Celebrating the end of midterms week? Crying over your midterm grade? Rick’s Cafe is the place to go. Open Sundays through Thursdays from 8:00-11:00 PM, Rick’s is a student-operated ice cream shop in Haggett Hall. You can get four huge scoops of ice cream in a waffle cone for $1. That’s right, just. one. dollar. If you’re extra sad about that midterm grade or maybe just with a group of friends, you can opt for the “R U Serious” (in title image; photo credits to Rick’s Cafe’s Facebook page) which is 20 scoops of whichever flavors you want. Occasionally fraternities or other student associations will work for a night to fundraise towards their philanthropy projects. Otherwise, the money goes towards supplies (aka ice cream). Despite not having to pay workers, a Rick’s representative said “Rick’s operates at a loss. [Rick’s] exists to provide students with an inviting space and to help create a great community.” In other words, Rick’s is truly something to be thankful for this Thanksgiving season.
Usually crowded, loud, and stuffy. There are chairs and tables spread out and a cozy area with leather couches. Rick’s offers board and card games and keeps a student-controlled Spotify playlist playing for those looking to relax for awhile.
The menu boasts both permanent flavors and special flavors that change weekly dependent on which voting tip jars are most full. Other options include: milkshakes, fresh chocolate chip cookies, Italian sodas, and ice cream sandwiches. Popular special flavors are: birthday cake, lemon meringue pie, strawberry cheesecake, and moose tracks.
Any student can volunteer to scoop several nights per quarter. It’s a fun way to meet new people, bond, and make people happy.
Closing Caveats
*Lines can get long (usually during opening and closing weeks) and flavors sometimes run-out.
*Cash only! (Student IDs seem to be obsolete for the good stuff)
*Haggett residents (all North Campus residents, really) beware! The freshman 15 (sophomore 16…) is all the more possible with this heaven just an elevator ride away.