For new and returning students, it has always been a pain trying to decide what to eat between classes. Avoiding the CAW is a top priority, because no one wants to wait in those lines during the lunch and dinner rush hours. Instead, try switching up your routine by exploring some of these great eats that can be enjoyed either by yourself or with a few close friends. The best part about these off-campus suggestions is that they are all within walking distance of the main campus, which is perfect when you are in a pinch!
The Garden
Price Range: $-$$
Food Type: Asian
Why it’s great: Consisting of a quiet and cozy atmosphere, accompanied with a welcoming and warm staff, this place is one of my favourite spots to go to with my friends. As a bonus, the ENTIRE menu is Vegetarian, along with Vegan substitutions.
Green Bean Café
Price Range: $-$$
Food Type: Soups & Sandwiches, Tea & Lattes
Why it’s great: This is the perfect spot for when you need a late-night study place and you don’t want to stay on campus. With Wi-Fi located inside, this café presents a cozy environment, and if you go with friends, there are board games that you can play on the back tables.
Pho Xic Lo
Price Range: $-$$
Food Type: Vietnamese
Why it’s great: I only discovered this place recently, but I love the food and the employees. You write your meal on the order paper, and the employees pick it up, there are limited interactions, which minimizes those awkward conversations between waiter and guest. The pho is amazing, but they also have meals for those that are not noodle people.
Bean’s Ladle
Price Range: $$
Food Type: American
Why it’s great: This was one of the first restaurants that I ate at off-campus, and it is always the place I recommend for first-year students. It offers both dine in and take-out, but be prepared for the busy hours, as you may be waiting a little while if you choose to dine in.
Sharetea
Price Range: $
Food Type: Variety of Bubble Tea
Why it’s great: Located above one of the local shops that are around town, this is the perfect study place if you’re in need of a drink break. All drinks are customizable, to how much ice you want, to the amount of pearls floating in your drink. With Wi-Fi on location and often quiet sit-down tables, this is one of the best locations to sit and meet up with friends.
Matcha House
Price Range: $
Food Type: Ice Cream, Baked Deserts & Tea
Why it’s great: This super cute location is perfect when you’re in need of a light snack in between classes. The ice cream is amazing, the baked goods are fresh, and the tea is always freshly made.
There are many other locations that are within walking distance, these are just a few of my favourites. Have any favourites that we’ve forgotten? Let us know in the comments!