Working at an off-campus study program — yes, folks come here for an exotic semester "abroad" — I issued the following challenge to our fresh-off-the-airplane rural Midwesterners: "I hereby dare you to eschew all fast food chains for 16 weeks. Winners enjoy a lunch on me." So far my wallet has remained firmly tucked in my back pocket, or behind my couch cushions, or wherever I've lost it last. (There's another money-saving tip: Can't spend money you can't find.)

It's been 10 years since I, a fresh-faced Midwesterner, arrived in Philly (forget the plane, though, we split an econo-rental four ways) and I've yet to allow a morsel of nugget or an anemic fry to pass my lips.

In other words, nothing burns me up more than seeing "I'm-so-broke" students snarfing down valu-meals. For $5.95 they get a generic burger, listless fries and an oddly flavored soda. Oh, I could rant about how spending a semester away from one's cozy liberal arts college is supposed to open one's mind to new and challenging experiences, but who the hell cares? Good food is the bottom line, that's what it's all about. I offer you five meals under $5:

• First and most gloriously, Minar Palace (1605 Sansom St.) serves plenty of fire for your five. Try the alu gobi for $5. No need to waste money on drinks, as large coolers of icy water stand guard at the counter.
• I'd like to use a few words to thank a certain editor for forcing this lily-livered former Michigander (think walleye roll for a moment, will you?) into the marvelous world of raw fish. Order the crunchy orange roll at Wasabi House (1238 Pine St.) for $4.95; you won't be disappointed.
• Oh, the Taqueria Veracruzana (908 Washington Ave.). A plate of pork tacos, $5, will likely make two solid lunches. Buy yourself a Squirt while you're at it.
• Bring your own! For approximately $3, a handful of greens and a slab of last night's chicken makes a great lunch.
• Bill's Steak and Hoagies (1325 Sansom St.) is my kind of fast food joint. Order the tuna club on rye with pickles for $4.15 — and make sure you tell the nice ladies to keep the change.

Save: At least $7.65 a week.

Calculation: $5.95 represents an average of three different chain value meals.