When I hear “downtown,” I always picture the local shops and restaurants just twenty minutes north of campus. I’ve never lived anywhere other than Amherst, MA, so I grew up taking the PVTA, walking into downtown Amherst after school, and trying out all the amazing eateries. This compilation of my favorite places to eat is in no way an objective one, but simply a list of my recommendations for those traveling to my hometown and wanting to know which restaurants are beloved by Amherst natives. Happy eating!
☆ Antonio’s Pizza
I’m sure that there is a reason why Antonio’s is the only pizza parlor downtown! From classic cheese and pepperoni to steak burritos and avocado quesadillas metamorphosed into pizza slices, Antonio’s is sure to have an option that satisfies your taste. Some prefer their crust thin and crispy while others like theirs doughy and thick, but in my opinion, Antonio’s finds the magical medium. Also, if you stop in between 12am and 2am on Fridays, you can get cheese slices for $1 each! Cheap, quick, and with yummy gluten free and vegan options, Antonio’s is a must.
When I think about my experience growing up in the Pioneer Valley, Antonio’s will always hold a special place in my heart. My memories there go back to when I still wore my hair in pigtails and had to stand on my tiptoes to peer up at the delicious displays. No matter how far I look back, from third grade when my friend’s mom bought us Antonio’s before we carpooled to ballet class, to the last day of tenth grade when my classmates and I celebrated completing half of high school by walking into town and getting pizza, to last semester when I brought my new friends from college there, I have always looked forward to Antonio’s. Though I may have grown up, my love for Antonio’s has never changed and never will.
☆ Miss Saigon
I’m no pho expert, but I think the abundance of customers at Miss Saigon every day of the week says it all. Conveniently located next to a parking lot for those with cars on campus, the Vietnamese restaurant is a safe haven for those craving Asian cuisine. I have nothing but praise for Miss Saigon: fresh meat and vegetables, delicious vermicelli noodles and broth, generous portions at a reasonable price, and quick and friendly service. My favorite dishes are the chicken spring rolls and the pho with meatballs.
☆ Bueno Y Sano
Though I’ve lived in Amherst for my whole life, I never knew about Bueno Y Sano until I was in high school, but I am so thankful to the person who introduced me to the Mexican restaurant. Bueno is around the corner behind LimeRed Teahouse, and I think its semi-hidden spot makes the restaurant even more special. I’ve had my fair share of burrito bowls over the past four years, but if burritos aren’t your thing, you’ll love the flavorful tacos or cheesy quesadillas. Bueno’s ingredients are always super fresh, and they also offer a lot of vegetarian and vegan options.
☆ Pita Pockets
I feel somewhat like a fake fan when it comes to Pita Pockets because I’ve only ever had the falafel pocket and French fries, but they are just so good that I can’t bring myself to order anything else whenever I visit. Small but cozy, Pita Pockets is a Mediterranean restaurant sandwiched between Panda East and Bart’s Ice Cream. Their falafel is always crispy, and my mom says that even though she generally doesn’t like French fries, she loves Pita Pockets’ fries because they’re well-seasoned but not too salty. The staff are so wonderful and kind, and I recommend taking your family and friends here!
☆ GoBerry
When I first went to GoBerry, I thought the limited number of flavors was a downside. However, after trying GoBerry’s frozen yogurt, I’ve realized that even though they only offer four flavors at a time, their froyo is so high quality (they source locally! What’s not to love?) that each of the four types taste amazing anyway. Now, I consider it a strength; GoBerry rotates through flavors, so every time I go there, it’s a fun surprise to me as to what the four choices will be. When I go to GoBerry, I’m always aware that I am eating frozen yogurt, not ice cream. Also, just a heads-up for those used to self-serve froyo, GoBerry is a little different in that you tell the employee what size, flavor, and toppings you want, and they make it for you. Nevertheless, I say that GoBerry is worth trying, and I believe you won’t be disappointed with their creamy and tart yogurt.
☆ Vivi’s Bubble Tea
I am the person that promises to limit my budget but is already pulling out my wallet as soon as a friend mentions PVTA-ing to get boba. Found below The Works Café down a flight of stairs, it’s physically impossible for me not to feel happy when I’m greeted by the tea house’s pastel pink walls and the laughter of Five College students playing heated rounds of Jenga or Uno. Similar to bubble tea chains in bigger cities, Vivi’s allows room for customization, so you get to choose the sugar level and amount of ice in your drink. I love the variety at Vivi’s, so even though my go-to boba orders are the taro milk tea and lychee tea, I can never resist trying new flavors (I would definitely recommend trying the Blue Galaxy or the strawberry Yakult!).
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