Adventuring off campus shouldn’t be limited to the same old boba runs and quick bites around the UV. Riverside is surprisingly home to many unique joints that are perfect spots for meeting up with your friends over brunch. After a long week of studying, what’s a better way to kick off the weekend than with delicious food and great company? With these 5 options being no more than 3 miles away from UCR, there’s no excuse for saying there’s nothing to do in Riverside.
1. Punjab Palace ($: broke AF)
Photo courtesy of Leslie D. on Yelp
Indian food may not be the first image to come to mind when you think of brunch, but if you’re looking for a delicious and filling meal that won’t eat your wallet alive, this is your place to go. Every day from 11:30 am to 3 pm, you can get all-you-can-eat authentic Indian food for just around $10/person. Yup, just $10 for unlimited, flavorful goodness. Some staples to try: garlic naan, chicken tikka masala, vegetable samosas, carrot halwa, and gulab jamun.
2. Simple Simon’s Bakery & Bistro ($: broke AF)
Photo courtesy of Michelle H. on Yelp
Tucked in the heart of Downtown Riverside and surrounded by the historic Mission Inn Hotel, Simple Simon’s is a nice and casual spot with an industrial, Portland-esque vibe to it. From sandwiches and omelettes to a plethora of baked goods, Simple Simon’s offers a variety of affordable options to satisfy your and your friends’ different cravings. Must try: strawberry rhubarb tart with house whipped cream.
3. The Salted Pig ($$: feelin’ a little fancy)
Photo courtesy of @thesaltedpig on Instagram
Famous for being the Inland Empire’s first gastropub, The Salted Pig in Downtown Riverside has gained popularity for their high quality burgers in freshly baked brioche buns, homemade ice cream, and trendy atmosphere. It’s a hot spot for a night on the town, but I don’t think it’s ever too early to begin your midmorning with some killer burgers and fries for brunch. Some highlights: bacon fat popcorn, smutty fries, and maple bacon ice cream.
4. ProAbition ($$: feelin’ a little fancy)
Photo courtesy of @sarskim on Instagram
ProAbition is a swanky, prohibition era themed whiskey lounge with a modern twist to it. At this unique joint, you’ll not only be served great food but also be surrounded by lively jazz music that will make you feel like you’re back in the Roaring Twenties. Some favorites: pork belly Brussels sprouts and blue cheese fries.
#SpoonTip: If you use Yelp religiously like I do, be sure to check in on the mobile app for free (!) blue cheese fries to complement your meal.
5. Cafe Sevilla ($$$: a treat yoself kinda morning)
Photo courtesy of Cafe Sevilla on Yelp
Who knew we had authentic Spanish food right in our backyard? Located right off of the 91, Cafe Sevilla offers a wide variety of tapas/small plates and traditional Spanish style paella. From 10 am to 2 pm on Sundays, you can eat as much as your heart desires with their $30/person brunch buffet. We may be broke AF college students, but their unlimited tapas bar, omelette station, grill station, and dessert bar make for a fun and interactive experience you can treat yourself with after defeating a long week of midterms/finals.