It’s not been a good year for our beloved and beleaguered carts, but a rough summer, a… It’s not been a good year for our beloved and beleaguered carts, but a rough summer, a location change and a park development project later, some still remain, holding down the fort and ready to serve up super cheap, super tasty ethnic foods to the lunch crowd. Thanks to a little wheeling and dealing by our man Bill Peduto, the carts have found a temporary home on Thackeray Street. Hopefully they’ll be able to relocate and replenish their numbers when the Schenley Plaza Park is finished, but for the time being, we still have the following three at our disposal.

Kashmiri

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No Panther Funds

There’s nothing like a long day of classes to instill in one an overwhelming hankerin’ for some tasty chicken tikka masala or matar paneer. Should you find yourself stricken with this need and unable to commit to a sit-down lunch at any of Oakland’s fine Indian eateries, Kashmiri’s got you covered.

Like the nice people they are, Vilnay and Rita Patidar want you to be able to satisfy that curry craving, have a nice, hearty lunch and still not have to hurt the ol’ wallet. Full-size servings of all the essentials of Indian cuisine go for less than $5 a pop and are as filling as they are delicious.

The wide selection of chicken, lamb and vegetarian entrees is not all they have to offer, however. A number of sides – such as their plump fried samosas and their delicious specialty breads such as roti and nan – are even cheaper and make a great accompaniment to any lunch. Finish it off with a specialty drink such as mango lassi or new fresh strawberry lemonade, and you’ve got yourself an Indian feast without having to dive too deep into your pocketbook or get too far away from campus.

– Daniel Richey

Leena’s Food

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No Panther Funds

Unfortunately, we don’t have many options when it comes to Mediterranean fare in Oakland. For some reason, while there are seemingly limitless options when you want something Asian or south of the border, if you’re jonesing for some Greek food, you’re limited. On the upside, that unassuming little van called Leena’s Food is on top of it.

Few people are aware of this, but good street falafel is essential to any burgh’s retaining major-city status. This is why we should feel fortunate to have Leena’s. Not only do they serve falafel, the falafel they serve is damn good.

On top of that, they boast the “best gyros in Pittsburgh.” This may very well be the case. If you’re feeling carnivorous, get your Greek fix with one of these filling, cheap, ridiculously tasty treats. The quality definitely will not disappoint.

– Daniel Richey

Namsai Express

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No Panther Funds

While the move to Thackeray has hit the Asian food selection the hardest, Namsai Express still serves up the basics, and does so in style.

Whether it’s General Tso’s or teriyaki chicken, some fried rice or tofu-filled vegetarian fare you’re looking for, Vichien Namsai is going to take care of you. Not much coin need be dropped to get your Thai or Chinese fix – they even go so far as to let you split your plate between two different dishes if you’re feeling indecisive.

The main entrees are, of course, not pricey at all, and sides and specialties are also offered for your lunchtime delight.

– Daniel Richey