Another semester is starting and Gainesville is bustling with students moving in. If you’re just starting at University of Florida, you’re probably feeling a little overwhelmed. Starting college can be a big experience, and stressful. Between moving, finding your classes and getting to know the place where you’ll be spending the next four years, it can be a lot to take in. That’s why we want to make it easier for you to get adjusted.
The great thing about living in a college town like Gainesville is the awesome variety of eating and drinking options. Within walking distance from campus especially, there’s tons of great Gainesville restaurants and eateries that are popular among the college crowd.
Here is a list of the Top 5 Gainesville Restaurants for the College Crowd:
Caribbean Spice
This place brings the taste of the islands to Central Florida. Caribbean Spice has been serving up homestyle Caribbean/Jamaican favorites in Gainesville for over 20 years.
Their beef patties and coco bread is made fresh, daily. Trust us, one bit of a beef patty from Caribbean Spice and you’ll be hooked. But you better get in quick if the craving hit, because those things go quick!
Leonardo’s by the Slice
A UF mainstay, Leonardo’s by the Slice has been serving up hot, delicious pizza to Gainesville’s college crowd for years. Whether you’re preference is a thick slice or thin, you’re gonna love these pies!
You better make this place a priority stop though; we are saddened by the news that Leonardo’s will be closing within a year from now following a purchase of the property by UF. In the meantime, soak up your tears with some garlic knots.
Bagels & Noodles
As their name implies: they’ve got bagels and they’ve got noodles. But it’s really so much more than that.
From American comfort foods to Vietnamese comfort foods, you’ll always find something to satisfy your appetite. The moderate decor and insanely reasonable prices make this one of the most popular Gainesville restaurants for students.
Flaco’s Cuban Bakery
Located just on the outskirts of downtown, Flaco’s original location is a little more than an quick walk from campus – but that never stopped this Cuban bakery and cafe from being a favorite among the college crowd. They are so popular in fact, that Flaco’s has opened a second location in Midtown and that is an easy walk!
The flavors coming out of this place are just irresistible; you can find everything from Cuban sandwiches to empañadas and pastelitos to settle all your Cuban culinary cravings. They also offer a variety of rice bowls. Don’t forget the coffee!
The Swamp
A collegetown staple, especially on game days, The Swamp has been a university favorite since 1994. Their menu is classic American fare and the spirit is 100 percent UF. Gators memorabilia lines the walls and you’re bound to see a lot of people wearing blue and orange.
The Swamp’s casual vibe makes it a great spot for any occasion.
