I know a restaurant
On the other side of town
With free napkins and cheap student beans.
Chicken and chips at two ninety nine,
But no water, fortunately, for the pocket.


I am a personal acquaintance
Of the chef who is also the cashier.
I know the cleaner too, who is the chef
Minus the apron, which also doubles
As a dust-coat.


Vegetarian chips and beans
At a discounted price of one fourty nine
Come with free plastic forks and
A free facial painting of an attempted
Mona Lisa idea of a smile;
Complete with a half-hearted "tra, mate".


I know someone who knows someone
Who owns another restaurant
Around town;
Where student food is served, fast and  hot
At the expense of a warranty
On health and safety.