As a college student, you should already know the three major food groups: burgers, pizza and tacos. And you probably have favorite places to get them (i.e.: the “Old Faithful” chain restaurants that guarantee fast, cheap and occasionally delicious food nearly anywhere in the country). But next time the cravings hit, try thinking inside the box. Local restaurants boast fresh ingredients, unique atmospheres and even some great drink deals for a lot less than you’d expect. You just might discover a new go-to.
Pizza
Domino’s: the staple for late-night “study” sessions, post-game dinners and random pizza cravings. It also accepts Carolina Cash as payment and has dozens of special offers and discounts. Most of us would agree that dining experience isn’t this pizza chain’s strongest feature; you (hopefully) wouldn’t suggest a romantic night at the local Domino’s as a first date. But when you don’t feel like venturing outside for that large, three-topping pie, delivery is a bonus. And it’s not going to put a dent in your checking account: a 10-inch cheese pizza costs about $7. For one of its best deals, check it out on Wednesdays when you can get a medium cheese pick-up for only $4!
When you want to go out for pizza, go by Nicky’s Pizzeria in Five Points. It has a casual, sports-bar atmosphere without being too noisy or crowded. The relatively small interior gives it a cozy feeling (though that may also be from the pizza ovens). The outdoor patio is perfect for those valuable moments when the temperature falls below scalding. Though the restaurant is small, the menu is comprehensive and includes calzones, garlic knots and, of course, pizza with a variety of toppings. If you’re with friends, share a $6 pitcher of Shock Top during happy hour, and don’t worry about your budget: a generous New York-style slice is only about $3.
Burgers
Five Guys Burgers and Fries has been the place to go for a quick, low-priced hamburger. A prime spot in The Vista makes it convenient, and the large, clean interior makes it a pleasant place to actually dine in. The burgers are standard in flavor but tenderer and more generously portioned than the thin, dry variety found at other fast food stops. Overall, it’s a meal and a dining experience that’s a step up from the typical chain offering. A traditional sesame seed bun, the option for multiple patties and free toppings allow customers to engineer the perfect burger. Throw in some rough-cut fries, a soda and free peanuts for a grand total of about $7.
If the beef bug bites and you have time for a sit-down experience, try out Burger Tavern 77 on Devine Street. The atmosphere is quirky, with vintage bar signs and license plates covering the walls, not to mention a bicycle suspended from the ceiling. There’s plenty of seating, but the slightly dim interior and narrow architecture are true to its neighborhood hangout feel. However, its best feature is definitely the “Build Your Own Burger” menu. It kicks customization up a few notches with veggie, turkey and pork patty options. In addition, it offers traditional beef and tons of fresh, unique and free toppings like tomato bruschetta, fried jalapeños and Southern slaw. Don’t forget to add some Bourbon BBQ or teriyaki sauce to your masterpiece. You can also choose from eight sides, but a burger is naked without fries, and the ones here are perfectly crispy and dangerously addictive. Finally, beverage is just as important as food at Burger Tavern, and it always has a deal going on, like $3 “Pint Night” on Wednesday. A custom burger, a delicious side and a pint will only cost about $14 (good times included) and even less if you’re a soda or water person. Sometimes, it pays off to spend a little more for your burger.
Tacos
When you’re in the mood for a burrito, Moe’s Southwest Grill is usually the automatic choice. The close proximity to campus (no car needed) is a major bonus. Meal deals are also a draw, from old favorites like Moe’s Monday to its more recent acceptance of Carolina Cash. It also has one of those awesome drink machines with nearly every flavor of soda you could ever concoct. A soft-shell taco, chips, regular drink and small side of either queso or guacamole only costs about $7. It’s easy to see why Moe’s is so popular (even if it means waiting in line longer than it actually takes to scarf down that burrito).
When you feel like having a more relaxed, sit-down experience, check out Cantina 76. If you live on campus and can’t make it out to Devine Street, don’t fear! It has a location on Main Street as well, just a few blocks from The Horseshoe. According to its website, “everything on the menu is made from scratch in house daily.” The roasted chicken taco, with shredded cheese, pico de gallo and Southwestern ranch, is colorful, zesty and made with fresh ingredients. From 5 to 7 p.m., get $1 off all drinks. It’s a great place to eat with friends or with the parents when they visit you at school. Roomy booths, a lively bar, artistic decor and an open concept interior are a welcome respite from the fluorescent lighting and questionable odors at the on-campus dining halls. The best part? The classy surroundings don’t require a well-endowed wallet: two tacos and a soda only cost about $8.
