Over the years, I have enjoyed many great meals at Engrained Cafe, on the second floor of the Memorial Union on the Arizona State University Tempe Campus. This is the old location of Mariposa Cafe, which was there until the big fire in the Memorial Union in 2007. The food used local ingredients, and Engrained used a number of sustainability practices. When you arrive to Engrained, you first get a table (inside or outside) or booth (inside) by receiving a number. You then went to a display area that used to have actual meals on display. Now, you can see the menus and also images of each dish on a screen. You then head to a register where you can place the actual order and pay with cash, credit card, or Maroon & Gold dollars. That is where you give them your table/booth number. You then head to your table and on the way, you pick up any drink you wish (sodas, flavored waters, agua frescas) and then some truffle and sea salt popcorn (which recently replaced chips). Then, when your order is ready, someone will bring it to your table. Voila! Nice and systematic process. On my most recent visit yesterday, my friend and I each ordered an Engrained Burger, which includes a 6 oz local grass fed brisket burger with house made burger sauce, lettuce, tomato, shaved onion, American cheese, house pickle, bacon, and toasted brioche. The burger contains egg, soy, diary, and wheat with a dairy free option or gluten friendly option available. The dishes came with waffle fries. I tried my burger without the burger sauce and tomato. I also asked for some ketchup and mustard on the side. The burger was delicious! The fries were a nice complement to the burger. Other items on the menu included soup, salads, grill items, entrees (including tacos, pasta, salmon, and chickpeas), pizza, and dessert. I've had a number of these items over the years, and I'm generally very pleased. This is THE place on-campus to go for students, staff, and faculty right in the Memorial Union. I enjoy catching up with my staff colleagues here. The staff are great, and the food is always delicious! I look forward to returning again soon. read more