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Would you eat dessert before an entree? If so, then Crave Restaurant & Lounge is your calling. The first page of the menu, which is desserts, quotes: “Life is short… order dessert first!” Besides having mouthwatering desserts, Crave represents its namesake well and has one craving for more food — a wide variety of soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers and pastas.

The picturesque display of food is impressive and fits well with the noteworthy atmosphere of the restaurant. The Feng Shui art of placement in Crave creates harmony throughout the restaurant, even bringing the bathrooms into play. Green walls, granite tables and bamboo plants create the earthy theme, yet the ceiling pipes and modern-looking bar stools create an urban look. The restaurant has “more of a big city feel” our waiter, Jesse Siegelman, originally from New York, said.

Everyone knows being a college student equals little money and having a budget. Crave does not fit well into our deteriorating banking accounts, with entree prices ranging from $14 to $33. However, when the cafeteria’s salad bar and chicken tenders become boring and monotonous, Crave can be used as an escape from the normal college meal to be an extra-special treat for students.

The casual service presents a laidback feeling, perfect for the young adults attracted to the restaurant. The workers can to connect with customers while maintaining a professional feel.

Differing from the casual service is the presentation of the food. Soups are served with freshly grated cheese on top and hearty portions of vegetables which, again, have a high price. Sandwiches have a delicious mixture of different ingredients that come together to create an impressive taste. Contrary to the low-budget burger joint down the street serving french fries as a side, Crave serves all sandwiches with your choice of sweet potato fries, waffle fries, jalapeno slaw, coconut scallion rice, sweet sticky rice, sesame spinach, fresh fruit or vegetables.

Being a small building, the restaurant often has a waiting list for busy nights. Aside from the normal waiting time spent at other restaurants, Crave provides guests with a bar with a wide selection of martinis, beer, wine, coffee drinks and after-dinner drinks. Crave also features an extensive wine list with varieties from around the globe including South America, New Zealand and Australia. Along with many drinks to choose from, couches and subtle lighting are provided in the lounge for an enjoyable and calming visiting atmosphere.

All in all, Crave Restaurant & Lounge provides its customers with a higher class dining experience that allows them to get away from the normal college grub. While out on the town, stop by Crave located at 201 W. Gorham St., and don’t be afraid to have dessert first.

4 stars out of 5