It’s the middle of a day in February. Weather is turning gray more often than not and, as if things couldn’t get much worse, we’ve begun to crack open at least a few textbooks and started disgracing at least one of our respective campus libraries with a word that probably should not be printed in this column. Sorry, Helen C.

Brighten things up with a trip to Larry B’s, a new establishment gracing the block of State Street nearest to campus. Officially known as Larry B’s Soup, Salads and Sandwiches, this modern diner is only a short walk away.

Larry B’s is anything but the usual down-home, mom-and-pop-type diner. In fact, it is something different with colorful lights spread about to brighten even the worst of days. Say goodbye to old school diners and hello to a new, electrified version with something original and interesting that practically pulls passersby through the front door.

Curious passersby may notice the stylish sitting stools inside of varying primary colors that ooch a few inches downward when occupied. Or, the countertops with photos of rock stars from the ’50s or ’60s keep them there. All of these attractive features add up to an entertaining and new look for the diner, as we once knew it.

The combination of decorative zing and pizzazz with a mini flat-screen TV and easy-going wait staff transform any study break into a study relief.

Larry B’s menu is explicitly simple without jargon to get confused with. You get what it says. Almost. Sandwich offerings include a Hearty BLT, Chicken Breast Sandwich, Hot Ham and cheese. Served on thick bread, these flat-grilled creations are sure to satisfy an appetite for greasy-spooned goodness.

Don’t confuse panini with the specialty grilled sandwich that has spread across the Midwest recently like a virus epidemic. Instead, panini sandwiches at Larry B’s are made on the grill like a normal grilled cheese melt. Of course, these palatable sandwiches provide some ready study relief when served with curly fries.

If a sandwich doesn’t sound appetizing, try a burger. The Mad Town burger features a grilled beef patty topped with a split brat, onions and sweet pickle relish. Burgers are available naked or with cheese if the brat and burger combination is above the call of appetite duty.

Not in the mood for a sandwich? Larry B’s offers a wide variety of delicious soups for those chilly February afternoons. These fresh and homemade soups change every week and are sure to fulfill even the biggest skeptics’ tastes.

This modern diner is open Tuesday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Larry B’s is closed Mondays, as they spend the day cooking their plentiful variety of soups for the week.

Any lunch or dinner can be complemented with a beer or a glass of wine to unwind after a hard day at the office (library). A cold beer would complement any of the sandwiches, and wine would taste best when eating a salad.

Since it serves breakfast in the morning, Larry B’s is a worthy stop before a dreaded 8:50 a.m. class or after a good night at those hard-to-find places that serve endless glasses of alcohol at night.

Early-morning goodness at Larry B’s comes in many forms, including eggs, french toast and pancakes. Or, to keep that spring-break diet in check, opt for a Fruit and Yogurt salad. All breakfast selections include a glass of juice and a choice of sides.

Brightness inside of a restaurant is always an attraction to customers. Wowing at the newness of Larry B’s décor, everyone should appreciate that the menu choices are simpler than the inside. Soup choices are the exception and provide a nice change of pace from week to week.

Experiencing new establishments about town is a great way to drown the sorrows of education and uplift spirits. Convenient comfort food with friendly people working behind the counter is a hard thing to come by but can easily be found at 617 State St.

Tom McGrath is a fifth-year senior majoring in journalism and mass communications, among other things. His next column will run next week on this day; try to catch it. Tom can be reached via e-mail: [email protected].