When the parents aren't in town and there's no date to impress, college kids just want some down-to-earth, good food that satisfies their appetites and budgets. From late-night munchies to study-break lunches, many meals are hard to find. Around the University of Miami, students don't have to turn to McDonald's or chain diners — there are plenty of fast-casual eateries that offer high-quality, low-cost dishes. Here are some of the standouts in Coral Gables.
6. Taco Rico
By the time freshman year comes to a close, most students have had their fair share of Chipotle and start seeking something fresh. Enter Taco Rico. The Tex-Mex restaurant offers all the crunchy, cheesy, spicy flavors college kids crave just a few blocks from campus. It’s the best place for no-frills Mexican cuisine in the area, and local favorites like enchiladas
5. Swensen’s
In the age of complicated culinary concepts and unpronounceable menu items, it’s refreshing to dine at a simple all-American eatery like Swensen’s. Yes, it’s old-fashioned and maybe even a bit cliché, but this grill and ice-cream parlor
4. Buns & Buns
Bread is the name of the game at this self-described “gastro-fast” spot. For less than $15, you can savor warm sandwiches with a wide range of global influences, from tempura
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It’s time to forget the fro-yo frenzy and return to good
2. Shake Shack
Don’t underestimate Shake Shack. This chain is taking over the world one burger at a time, shaking up counter service with expectation-exceeding menu items like the killer cheese-stuffed shroom burger ($6.99). When
1. Bagel Emporium
At this strip-mall deli directly across from campus, you’ll find a pretty even split of groggy, sweatpants-clad college kids nursing their hangovers and elderly ladies out to lunch. But even if you’re perfectly sober and under the age of 80, Bagel Emporium is a solid option for hefty breakfast platters at student-budget prices. For less than nine bucks, you can get two eggs any style with your choice of meat, a side, a bagel, and a cup of joe. The deli also offers sandwiches, salads, and lunch platters — and the tuna melt is a delicious way to take advantage of the homemade bagels. In an area that lacks a family-owned, homestyle diner that’s so often found near college campuses, Bagel Emporium is the casually comforting spot Coral Gables needs.