Meliora Weekend Off Campus Eating Suggestions

I always get excited when Meliora Weekend rolls around for a number of reasons. The speakers (in the years since I’ve been here we’ve had Stephen Colbert, Bill Maher, Jim Gaffigan, and now Bill Clinton), the sprucing up of campus (and then subsequent negligence once it’s over), and — most importantly — the excellent meals I get when my parents come to visit. While it may come as a surprise to some, Rochester actually plays host to a large variety of delicious restaurants. I’ve encountered almost every sort of cuisine aside from Indian, which really does need some representation somewhere. I’ve compiled a list of great places I’ve been to that deserve some much-needed recognition. Whether for a birthday dinner, casual night out, date night (oh yeah), or whatever, definitely think of considering one of these restaurants:
 
1.  Aladdin’s (290 Exchange Blvd.): For good Mediterranean food, this is definitely the place to go. Their moussaka, pastas, and hummus are unbelievably good. They pride themselves on being a “natural” eatery (presumably meaning they only use the freshest ingredients).
2.  Magnolia’s (366 Park Ave.): One of the best cafes in the area. Whether you go for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, they have the most amazing menu. Their signature tomato artichoke soup is delicious, as are any of the sandwiches they offer. For breakfast, be sure to get one of their omelets. 
3.  Next Door Bar & Grill (3220 Monroe Ave.): This is my favorite place to go with my parents whenever they come to visit. While pricey, the food is ridiculously delicious. It’s owned by Wegman’s, and was previous known as Tastings (though they’ve changed around the entire menu and nearly everything else). Next Door offers everything. It’s the only restaurant I know of that serves a killer tuna roll and margarita       pizza.
4.Aja Noodle (2602 Elmwood Ave.): Everyone has probably heard of this thai/pan asian noodle restaurant, but it deserves mention anyways. Whether you pronounce it aj-ah or asia, their pad thai is to die for. It’s quick, relatively cheap, and delicious.