From late-night snacks to budget-friendly eats, here are the best places to eat and drink around the University of Florida in Gainesville.
LessThis coffee shop is full of original flavors and barista creations like the Twin Peaks (toasted marshmallow, maple syrup, and Irish creme), the Pixie Hollow (iced white cherry tea with lemon, raspberry, and blackberry), and the Toucan Sam (raspberry, vanilla, lavender, and lemon).
Cuban sandwiches are the highlight of Flaco's, making students and Gainesville natives return time and time again. Of course, you could never go wrong with some late-night nachos, burritos, tacos, and arepas from the establishment.
The groovy atmosphere of this Gainesville breakfast spot isn't the only thing that keeps patrons coming back. Delicious seasonal offerings including its whipped feta toast and staples such as the Dutch baby are crave-worthy. Plus, Afternoon's extensive coffee bar is worth a visit at any hour of the day.
Coffee and cocktails abound at this high-end, relaxed Floridian bar. Self-described as an "audiophile cocktail bar with a focus on jazz and soul," patrons can catch live music as they sip dirty martinis, gin and tonics, and more.
Dragonfly Sushi flies its fish in fresh from Japan. It loves creating an environment where the dishes can be shared among friends, family, and neighbors. The most creative rolls are the Mango Tango, a smoked salmon roll with cream cheese, mango, and avocado, topped with tempura flakes, sweet potato curls, and a peach apricot reduction, and the Bomb, a tuna roll with tempura shrimp, crab, and avocado, topped with tempura flakes, spicy sauce, and eel sauce.
You know your pizza is wood-fired when they are baked directly behind the counter for all to see. The topping selection is broad, containing everything from standard pizza toppings to goat cheese, honey, sauerkraut, and curry potatoes. As an added bonus, the pizzeria also serves brunch for those late mornings, too.
If you are craving amazing Mexican food with endless options, head over to La Tienda. This spot has affordable prices and is close to the University of Florida campus.
Karma Cream is a cute, cozy coffee shop in Downtown Gainesville that offers a variety of organic and vegan pastries, ice cream, and coffee. It’s a great study spot, made even better by the motivation of iced coffee during and a sweet treat after you finish that homework.
Dick Mondell's, complete with a drive-thru as well as a walk up window, proudly serves burgers, salads, and ice cream containing locally-sourced ingredients. Even more impressively, nothing on the menu is over $11.
Spurrier's lounge is here to accommodate your large group gathering on game day, while the main dining room or patio area are perfect for smaller groups. The atmosphere is bright and the food is high-end. "In the restaurant business, your best defense is a great space," restaurant owner and coach Steve Spurrier said. "And your best offense is great food."