If you’re experiencing New London for the first time as a college student, it’s understandable that your highest priority is caloric. Where indeed, then, do you eat?

There are so many ethnic possibilities that we’ve provided a separate roundup thereof. But here are some other significant possibilities to consider – for your own happiness as well as when Mom and Dad show up (credit card in hand!).

On the fine-dining side, On the Waterfront (250 Pequot Ave.), the Recovery Room (445 Ocean Ave.), RD86 Space (86 Golden Ave.) and Tony D’s (92 Huntington St.), are consistently excellent and welcoming. And the Blue Duck (52 Bank St.) is a recent and promising place for a nice night out.

Vegan cuisine is tastily proffered at The Right Path Café (147 Bank St.). The Neon Chicken (88 Howard St.) – with everything from the titular bird to pot roast, meatloaf, ribs and veggies – is terrific. Two Mexican bakeries go above and beyond the norm in terms of menu options: Oven-On (227 Jefferson Ave.) and Elim Bakery (623 Bank St.).

Mark these down because they’ll become indelible in your memories: You’re within walking distance of Mr. G’s (452 Williams St.), which is as home-away-from-home as you could ask for. And sports bar-and-beyond Hot Rod Café (114 Bank St.) is great for many reasons that themselves made up of great reasons.

Breakfast and lunch? The Yolk Café (825 Montauk Ave.) is down towards the beaches. In the heart of downtown are Jake’s Diner on State Street (138 State St.), the Sunrise Cafe (36 Golden St.) and the estimable Muddy Waters (40 Bank St.).

And for seasonal faves? Don’t miss Captain Scott’s Lobster Dock (80 Hamilton St.), Sellfish (260 Pequot Ave.) and Fred’s Shanty (227 Pequot Ave.).