With graduation just (are you ready for this?) 50 days away, it’s time to buckle down. No, we’re not talking classes. Let’s be honest, we’ve already mentally checked out of those. We’re talking about food. With only a little over a month and a half left in Gainesville for seniors, it’s time to complete the Gainesville culinary scene bucket list.
Centered around classic Gainesville staples, our list ranges from upscale sushi rolls to walk up burrito counters. These may not be the haute couture of the city’s restaurants, but they’re the ones you must try to be able to say you’ve lived in Gainesville!
Satchel’s Pizza $$
You won’t find anything more “Gainesville” than Satchel’s Pizza. Opened in 2003 by a former Leonardo’s 706 dishwasher, Satchel’s serves up funky ambience, live music and delicious pizza ($3/slice, $12.50/medium pie) and calzones ($8.50-$15). You’ll earn bonus points if you dine in the van located outside.
The Top $$
An eclectic staple of Gainesville, you’ll encounter hipsters and potentially smelly waiters at The Top, but that’s all just part of its charm. The Top is so popular that you will probably be handed a lobster-shaped buzzer, but make your way to the bar to weather the wait. Order a Little Devil cocktail and the pesto gnocchi ($10.95) and you’ll never want to leave. Make sure to hit up the photo booth on your way out.
Burrito Brothers Taco Co. $
In business since the 1970’s, Burrito Brothers is an iconic Gainesville landmark. Famous for their walk-up window meals, Burrito Bros. produces tasty, cheaply priced burritos, tacos and enchiladas ($1.85-$6.10). The eatery is so beloved that former Gainesville residents who no longer live in the city will order their favorites online and the restaurant will ship their orders across the country. Now how’s that for customer service?
The Swamp Restaurant $$
Now we’re not saying it’s the best food on the block, but you absolutely cannot beat Swamp’s atmosphere. Located directly across the street from campus, Swamp let’s you take in the midtown scene while dining under a canopy of white lights. (We recommend the Tuscan Chicken Sandwich and sweet potato fries, $10.) Snag a table on the upstairs outdoor deck for an even better view.
Dragonfly Sushi & Sake Company $$
For a more sophisticated Gainesville dining experience, visit Dragonfly Sushi. Located downtown, Dragonfly offers arguably the best sushi in town, but you’ll pay the price. Rolls run from $6 to $15, while dinner dishes cost anywhere from $9 to $17. The trick is that you’ll have to order multiple items to actually be satiated at the end of the meal. And for ambience, black and white Japanese films and mood lighting give Dragonfly a hip, urban vibe.
Leonardo’s By The Slice $
If you’re looking for pizza and you want to stay close to campus, look no further than Leonardo’s By The Slice. When you see the brigade of tattooed waiters in black tees, you’ll know you’re in the right place. Snag a slice of cheese for just $2.50 or get a 14” pie for $8.75. They also have a solid selection of craft beers, included Gainesville’s own Swamphead Brewery.
Ivey’s Grill $$
A cozy brunch spot über close to campus, Ivey’s is perfect for curing that hangover or getting your day started on the right note. Served on brightly colored Fiesta ware, dishes like the banana nut French toast (two slices-$6) and the eggs Benedict ($9) will satisfy. However, on weekends there will definitely be a wait and the service may be a bit slow.
Okay so you’ve heard the radio ads. But have you actually stopped in to try the Jamaican eatery’s dishes? While their signature dish of oxtail may be too much for your first visit, we recommend the jerk chicken, served with rice & peas, steamed cabbage and plantains ($11.59). But beware, it’s spicy. The Shack also offers a variety of veggie dishes for the vegetarians out there.
Emiliano’s Café Restaurant $$
Looking to expand your culinary taste buds? Hit up Emiliano’s Café downtown for lunch, dinner or Sunday brunch to try authentic pan-Latin cuisine. Tapas (try the warm brie with mango glaze) run from about $7 to $10, while main dishes, such as the paella, cost anywhere from $12 to $20. Live music is also served up on a regular basis.
Boca Fiesta $
A Tex-Mex hipster restaurant that serves alligator? Yep, this has Gainesville written all over it. With a loud, fun atmosphere and eclectic décor, Boca Fiesta wins over hungry diners looking for an expensive meal ($8-$10/item). The food is good (nothing out of this world), but add in one of their strong margaritas, and you’ll leave happy. Check out the back porch on Monday nights for karaoke and Tuesdays and Thursdays for trivia.
Have you some other must-not-miss restaurants in Gainesville? We’d love to hear ‘em!
