For those of you who haven’t noticed, there has been a lot of construction going on in downtown Durham recently. But, with all of this construction comes new restaurants and another reason for broke college kids to spend money they don’t have on delicious food. If you’re anything like me, decision making can be a challenge (especially when it comes to what food to order), so I’ve compiled a list of the best menu items at each of the new eateries at UNH.
The Spot
If you haven’t tried an acai or pitaya bowl, you are really missing out. The Spot is Durham’s new go-to eatery for blends and bowls, so stop by one of the trendiest spots on campus for an Instagram-worthy boost of energy.
Arise Pitaya Bowl
Photo by Allie Coneys
Pitaya is more commonly known as dragon fruit, or the fruit of a cactus. This bowl’s base is pitaya blended with apple juice, topped off with granola, goji berries, strawberries and bananas.
Montego Smoothie
Photo by Danielle Gervais
Sometimes you need a boost of caffeine, but plain old coffee can get boring. That’s where the Montego smoothie comes in. It’s made with coffee, peanut butter, banana, and chocolate. You’re getting that much-needed energy, protein, and a serving of fruit all at the same time, so it’s a win-win, am I right?
Build Your Own Acai Bowl
Photo by Taylor Berlinsky
When nothing on the menu tickles your fancy, just build your own bowl! There are so many options for toppings that you can’t really go wrong. This bowl features acai blended with almond milk, topped with bananas, granola, peanut butter, and cacao nibs.
Lexie’s Joint
The food at this burger joint is pretty much the cure-all for every situation. Hungover? Go to Lexie’s. Just got dumped? Go to Lexie’s. Exams are killing you? Go to Lexie’s. Trust me.
Build Your Own Burger
Photo by Taylor Berlinsky
I chose to top my burger with crunchy fried onions, fresh avocado, and garlic aioli (a mayonnaise based sauce) for a kick of flavor. It makes for the perfect bite with the soft bun and tender beef patty.
Bistro Fries
Photo by Taylor Berlinsky
Lexie’s bistro fries are crispy and smothered in herbed aioli, all topped with parmesan cheese, bacon, and fresh herbs. They are seriously addictive, and let’s face it, bacon makes everything better.
Mocha Oreo Milkshake
Photo by Taylor Berlinsky
This milkshake is a heavenly mixture of chocolate, coffee, and Oreo. It’s safe to say you can find me at Lexie’s double fisting this shake and a burger any day of the week.
The Soupery
The Soupery serves up a different variety of vegan and/or gluten free soups each day, and picking just one is a challenging task. I’ve managed to narrow the list down to just three, so drop in and try a bowl of the ultimate comfort food.
Cheesy Tomato (AKA Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup)
Photo courtesy of wickedgoodsoup.com
Grilled cheese and tomato soup are a classic combination, and The Soupery definitely does it right. Tomato soup is tasty in its simplicity, but is pure gold when you scoop it up with a cheesy sandwich.
Chicken Vegetable & Rice
Photo by Taylor Berlinsky
This soup is a spin on the traditional chicken noodle soup, and the updated version does not disappoint. It’s hearty and light at the same time and is my personal favorite.
Sebago Jalapeño Beer & Cheddar
Photo courtesy of wickedgoodsoup.com
I’m pretty sure there is nothing better than beer and cheese, except for their marriage in this soup. It’s rich and creamy, and the kick of heat from the peppers is unbeatable.
The Juicery
The Juicery has lots of food options, inducing their acai bowl, but when I go there, it’s all about the unique smoothies and juices. All hail the good stuff (i.e. fresh fruit).
Very Berry
Photo by Taylor Berlinsky
This sweet, tangy smoothie is good for a first timer. It has familiar flavors featuring blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, banana, and apple juice.
Spring Splash
Photo by Danielle Gervais
This refreshing juice contains mint, apple, orange, carrot, and ginger. It’s full of vitamins A and C, which will give your immune system a huge boost.
Prana
Photo by Taylor Berlinsky
The Prana is a thicker smoothie (which I love) and a great source of protein. Strawberries, bananas, dates, and almond butter are blended up to create this perfect post-workout snack.