Nestled between Fat Shack and Yakety Yak on University Blvd is the newest addition to DU’s off-campus culinary scene, Yum Yum Spice. Despite its convenient location, this Chinese restaurant was simply not worth the walk.

Upon entering the reasonably-packed sit-down restaurant, I was less than impressed with the decor. The interior is an assault on the senses—reminiscent of a retro McDonalds—brimming with posters featuring food that at best looks inedible, and at worst nauseating. I averted my eyes while we took a seat at a steel table near the back and braced myself for the menu.

Yum Yum Spice features two menus: one with authentic Chinese dishes like Griddle Cooked Duck Head ($10.99 for small, $19.99 for medium and $29.99 for large); one with Americanized staples such as Sesame Chicken ($10.25) and Beef with Broccoli ($10.95) for dinner portions. This Grinder decided to play it safe with Kung Pao Chicken ($10.25) while my dining companion ordered the Steamed Dumpling appetizer ($5.95).

The dumplings were actually quite good, so despite the sickening posters, I grew optimistic that my entrée would follow suit (especially considering the steep price). Unfortunately, a few bites into my dish, the Kung Pao transcended the realm of average into awful, the chicken a rubbery consistency drowned in an unpleasant orange sauce.

That said, the service was exemplary; our food arrived as quickly as we’d ordered it and the staff was very accommodating. And the convenience can’t be beat since it’s just a short walk from virtually anywhere on campus. Bottom line though, the dishes are sold at far too exorbitant a price for what the restaurant delivers both in taste and in sight.

If Yum Yum Spice is going to avoid the failure that has befallen so many of its University Blvd. predecessors, it’s got to either lower prices or enhance quality so customers actually get what they pay for. The best advice I have for anyone planning a visit, is to avoid the poultry.