Her Campus Logo Her Campus Logo
The opinions expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.

The Her Campus National Editors write about products we love and think you’ll love too. Her Campus has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase. All products are in stock and all prices are accurate as of publication.

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UC Riverside chapter.

As someone who has lived in Riverside for a couple of years, I have become quite the expert on Riverside’s eateries. I have been on a little side quest for the last couple of years, trying different restaurants and discovering some of the hottest places. I have listed my personal favorites down below that you may enjoy too!

East coast bagels

This little shop in Canyon Crest was the best thing I stumbled upon during my college years. East Coast Bagels is Riverside’s go-to destination for the ultimate bagel experience. The Broadway themed restaurant provides a warm and inviting environment with a diverse selection of bagels that is the perfect way to start your day. 

Recommend: Veggie Special on Cheese Bagel! 

Bagels
Jocelyn Hsu / Spoon
smoke and fire social eatery

Although no one does brisket like Texas, Smoke and Fire Social Eatery comes close. Smoke and Fire is a destination that invites you to appreciate the art of barbecue. Each bite invites you to savor the smoky elegance of brisket and experience a genuine “National Dish of Texas.” 

Recommend: Smash Burger and Brisket Mac!

saku ramen

Saku Ramen is a 24 hour ramen joint in the heart of the city, serving up a cozy environment and bowl full of deliciousness. With winter right around the corner, Saku Ramen is the perfect place to warm you up and get a taste of the best authentic Japanese comfort food in the city. 

Recommend: Tori Ramen with topping of your choice!

urbane cafe

Urbane Cafe is a culinary oasis that crafts the vibrant salads and delectable sandwiches that come together and satisfy your taste buds. Not only is it satiating, Urbane Cafe is made of fresh, wholesome ingredients and the belief that a nutritious meal can be an indulgent experience. 

Recommend: Cilantro Chicken Salad!

Salad
Jenny Georgieva / Spoon
back to the grind

Step into the welcoming and aromatic world of Back to the Grind, Riverside’s go-to coffee shop. The comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the atmosphere, while the gentle hum of conversation and music provide the perfect ambience to study or just unwind. 

Recommend: Red Eye or Back to the Grind!

Riverside has a great selection of restaurants aside from the ones listed and fast food! Food has the remarkable ability to bring people together and I encourage you all to go out there and discover new foods with some of your friends and expand your palate! 

Jasmine Padda

UC Riverside '24

just your average pre-med student that occasionally writes :,)