Chateau de Bleu, Canton

A high school isn't the usual place for people to spend their lunch hour, but Chateau de Blue [ Chateau de Bleu ] at Blue Hills Regional Vocational Technical High School on Randolph Street is a hidden gem of a restaurant where customers can get a great lunch, prepared by student chefs, for less than $6. The restaurant is at the far right side of the school, next to a lot where customers can park. It is open from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, except on holidays and early-release days and during school vacations.

Cost: $8.20 for an entrée, soda and dessert

Time: 60 minutes

TAKE A SEAT

Let students who run this cozy and elegant restaurant pamper you with prompt service and a friendly attitude.

Students are attentive, but not overly so, and the food is served piping hot.

The atmosphere is casual elegance and students who wait the tables are enthusiastic and bright. If you want a conversation about the state of the school, sports, the war in Iraq or any other topic, just ask.

KICK BACK

Bring a book to read or just sit back and relax as the students in the kitchen, led by real-world chefs, whip up French onion soup, lemon ginger carrot bisque or a thick, creamy chowder loaded with seafood.

When they say it's hot, believe them!

INDULGE

There are lunch favorites like tuna salad and an Angus cheeseburger accompanied by a heaping helping of french fries. There are salads and homemade rolls to die for.

Entrées change daily. Try maple-glazed pork loin, baked stuffed sole or tongue-tantalizing spicy Maryland crab cakes.

All entrées are served with a choice of house salad or soup, potato or rice and the vegetable of the day.

CHECK IT OUT

If you've got room for dessert, consider creamy margarita cheesecake, luscious brownie à la mode or a cream puff filled with vanilla ice cream and covered with chocolate sauce.

This is one getaway that's all about the food, so be careful or you might need an hour after lunch for a nap.