School's back in session and that means there's a whole new squad of freshman without cars. Let's be honest, dining hall food sucks and sometimes you just need to get off campus for a yummy bite to eat. Without a car, options are minimal, but here's our guide to the best restaurants walking distance from SMU.
1. Digg's Tacos
Right past Umph and across the street is Digg's Tacos. With their creative tacos like the buffalo chicken and the Korean style Bahn Jovi, it's the perfect spot to get your fast taco fix before your next class. Pair your tacos with some chips and queso and you're good to go.
2. Sushi Kyoto
During these hot summer days when you don't want to walk far, Sushi Kyoto is a popular spot for students trying to get their sushi fix. Nothing beats their fiery volcano roll and shrimp crunch. Fair warning, Sushi Kyoto is on the pricier side but you can't beat the location across the street from Umph.
3. Penne Pomodoro
Right in Snider Plaza, Penne Pomodoro is the perfect spot to curb your pasta cravings and pregame the boulevard. Options like gnocchi, baked ziti, and wood fired pizzas are the best way to carbo load before a night of drinking. With so many pasta-bilities and dollar mimosas, it's a forever favorite for SMU students.
4. Banditos
Banditos is an SMU favorite for a marg that packs a punch and delicious tacos. With lots of TVs and an inviting atmosphere, Banditos is the perfect place to catch your favorite game or hangout with friends before a night out.
SpoonTip: Don't miss out on their happy hour from 4-7 p.m. or their reverse happy hour from 9-11 p.m. for $5 margs.
5. Nekter Juice Bar
If you've had one too many nights out and need a cleanse or are trying to live on the healthier side, meet Nekter. In Snider Plaza, Nekter's fresh pressed juices, smoothies, and açai bowls are a yummy way to beat the heat and stay healthy.
6. Zoe's Kitchen
Another great healthy option within walking distance from campus is Zoe's Kitchen. Zoe's features fresh mediterranean food ranging from hummus, to pita wraps, to salads. New to their menu are chipotle style bowls with toppings like lamb kafta, falafel, cauliflower rice, hummus, and tzaziki. Super quick and fresh Zoe's is the absolute best.
7. Dive Coastal Cuisine
If you're from California and are really craving some fresh seafood, than Dive is your place. The ahi tuna wrap can't be beat, but also try their ceviché and tuna tartare. So good you'll feel like we're at the beach.
8. East Hampton Sandwich Co.
Voted best sandwiches in Dallas, we're super lucky East Hampton is right around the corner from campus. With options like lobster rolls, burgers, cubanos, and chicken parm, there really is a sandwich for everyone. Feeling on the healthy side? All of East Hampton's sandwiches can also be turned into salads. Don't forget to pair your sandwich with their homemade chips or sweet potato fries.
9. Torchy's Tacos
If you've gone to Corral, all anybody talks about is Torchy's. Across the expressway, Torchy's wins the award for best queso with spicy sauce and guacamole, but their tacos are pretty yum too. It's an SMU right of passage to eat at Torchy's so don't skip out on their Trailer Park Taco and make sure to get it trashy. You'll thank me.
10. Sumo Shack
New to the SMU food scene is Sumo Shack cooking up unique bao sandwiches and not-so-college ramen. Open until 4 a.m. on the weekends, Sumo Shack is the perfect spot for those late night snacks. Even better, it's across the street from Barley.
If you're tired of the dining hall and not feeling like calling an uber to go out to eat, get some exercise and walk. Or even if you have time between classes, here's our guide to the best restaurants walking distance from SMU.