As much as we all love Chef Meagan’s enthusiasm Peirce’s devotion to local food, at one month into the school year it’s high time to explore other options! Grabbing brunch or dinner at one of these local eateries can be a great way to get out of the Kenyon bubble and feel like a real person. Of course, we won’t remain unfaithful for too long; we’ll always inevitably come home to Peirce’s reliable hash brown triangles and blue drink.
1. Village Inn
If you haven’t already been here, it’s time to get your butt over to the VI patio for dinner and drinks before it gets too cold out! Located between Wiggin Street Coffee and the bookstore, the VI has great food (try the Middle Ground Salad, their daily fresh soups, or wings!) and a fully stocked bar. Perfect for a casual lunch, a sunny dinner date, or a night at the bar, the VI is also famous for hosting student bands on the weekend, making for a great night out. Finally, don’t forget to add Wednesday VI Trivia on your Kenyon bucket list!
2. Deli
Located between the Market and the bookstore, the Gambier Deli is prime for so much more than just your hungover Saturday brunch. With a limitless list of sandwiches (as well as topnotch bacon, breakfast items, burgers, salads, and more), the deli has you covered. Make sure to try the Deli’s best-kept secrets: grilled muffins and seasonal hot mulled cider!
3. Southside
To get a little further off the hill, check out this all-American diner. A regular Kenyon student favorite for weekend brunches or celebrations, Southside has a little country feel mixed with all your classic American diner dishes. If you don’t have access to a car, this is definitely shuttle-worthy.
4. Bombay Garden and Greek Eats
Located along Coshocton, Bombay Garden and Greek Eats is a casual eat-in or take-out restaurant. The yummy food more than makes up for its lack of atmosphere. Their combination of Indian and Greek is a mystery, but it’s a mystery you learn to love. Both the Indian and Greek menu items are equally tasty and well prepared. Bonus: they deliver.
5. Hunan Garden
Got a craving for Chinese food? Campus consensus has it that Hunan Garden is the place to go to stuff yourself on the best Chinese food in Mount Vernon. There’s even a special Kenyon connection, because a couple who teaches at Kenyon owns the restaurant!
6. Chipotle
Finally, no list of our local food options would be complete without this classic. You know the drill: guac is extra. Located right off Coshocton by Kroger, Chipotle can make any day better.