Not many college bars are cool enough for everyone to enjoy. We’ve usually moved beyond greasy pizza and watery beer-by-the-yard by second semester of Freshman year. So, where does a student on a budget go for a good time? The LAB, of course.

Hold on, we’re not talking about lab’s of the science variety (unless you consider quality drinking and eating more than an art) but rather the new gastropub just off the USC campus. With over 40 beers to choose from, the hipster PBR crowd can be satisfied for only 4-bucks while the microbrew connoisseur can sample the Lab Amber Lager and the Trojan Blonde for $5 each. For the indecisive (or brew-curious) among you, try a beer flight!

The food ranges from scrumptious artichoke fritters with chipotle dip ($6) to grilled ham & cheese sammies ($7) to braised lamb shank with organic vegetables ($12) to banana splits for dessert. The elbow macaroni with three cheeses & sweet peas ($7) could tempt the most strong-willed dieter, and the charcuterie plate ($14) with a bottle of Educated Guess wine would make for cozy first date fare.

Slate-top communal tables make for a friendly environment and the beakers as vases, science book-lined shelves and leather study chairs are a nod to the restaurants theme. With the management team hand-plucked from LA-based hospitality groups such as SBE and Kor, it is little wonder that substance and style go hand-in-hand.

Even those of us who finished college a long time ago can pop in to LAB for a quick bite or a leisurely evening with friends. We might even learn a new thing or two while we’re at it.