The towns of Medford and Somerville offer so many different dining experiences to Tufts students, particularly in Davis Square and along Boston Avenue. But sometimes we all need something special, something different than those usual spots. Luckily for the Tufts community, two delicious takeout options are flying under the radar just minutes from campus.

1. Bob’s Italian Foods

Takeout

Photo by Erica Schwartz

Do you work out? Bob’s is a mere five minute walk from the gym, located on Main Street in Medford. Stepping inside Bob’s is like entering a highly condensed Little Italy. The shelves are practically overflowing with pastas, breads, Italian cookies and other delights.

The real stars, though, are the takeout counter and the deli. Bob’s chefs quickly prepare cheap and delicious Italian-American cuisine (think chicken parm, pasta dishes, and all sorts of enormous sandwiches), and you can get pounds of imported Italian cold-cuts and cheeses at the deli. The owner’s wife works the deli, and will often quite literally feed you an entire meal’s worth of samples. But make sure to leave room for an Italian Sub, packed with imported meats, provolone, EVOO, spices, and pickled peppers.

If you know what’s good for you, head over to Bob’s.

Takeout

Photo by Daniel Schuleman

2. Guru the Caterer

Takeout

Photo by Erica Schwartz

Guru is quite honestly the best takeout Indian I have ever had, and it’s only a 10 minute walk from the heart of the Tufts Campus. Located by the Stop and Shop in Somerville, it is a bit off the beaten path, but is absolutely worth stopping by for a lunch or dinner combo. Each meal combo at Guru is composed of a main dish, a vegetable side, rice and bread, and will only set you back about $10-12.

The menu changes daily, and while staples (think Chicken Tikka Masala, Palak Paneer, Chana Masala) are almost always available, Guru keeps things interesting with a rotation of dishes such as Salmon Curry, Zucchini Masala and an array of unique chicken, lamb and vegetable dishes, all spiced to perfection.

Guru also makes a mean Mango Lassi, a refreshing blend of yogurt and fruit.

Takeout

Photo by Erica Schwartz

Next time you’re tired of Davis or the dining halls, check out Bob’s or Guru. You most certainly will not be disappointed.