It is no secret that college life is hard and stressful. From procrastinating in writing lengthy papers, to stingy professors who will simply not round up a grade, and maintaining a social life on top of it all, things can be quite a headache.
However, like a cool, refreshing shower after a long, sweaty run, a hearty and delicious meal serves as a joyful respite to a difficult day. Unfortunately, at most universities, this simple pleasure is unattainable due to one certain fact: College food flat-out sucks.
In contrast, the food in the Parkland and Coral Springs area is quite the opposite. Offering a diverse array of delectable cuisine from a broad variety of cultures and influences, there are many fantastic choices. As a student myself, here is a list of some of my favorite restaurants in the area I was fortunate enough to eat at when I returned home from college.
BRGR Stop
BRGR Stop is the number 1 spot for extravagant gourmet burgers and luscious craft milkshakes that would even impress Vincent Vega of “Pulp Fiction.” Their high-end burgers are creative and masterfully crafted, bestowing a balanced cacophony of rich, sweet, and savory flavors with every bite. Each milkshake is inventive and prolific, offering its own unique flavor profile based on sweet snacks and desserts, such as red velvet cake, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Oreos, and many more. You also have the choice of the milkshake of the month. In addition, BRGR Stop offers a wide array of delightful comfort-food appetizers to start off your extraordinary meal.
J-Petal Ramen, Crepes & Bubble Tea
If you enjoy ramen noodles in any facet, then J-Petal is for you. In addition to having one of the best, most authentic bowls of ramen in all of South Florida, J-Petal also lends itself to a social and welcoming atmosphere. Because the bowls of ramen are packed with so many tasty ingredients (soft noodles, savory pork belly, chewy bamboo shoots, etc.), they take ample time to dissect and eat, allowing for plentiful conversation with anyone dining there with you. In addition to the bowls of ramen, there are also options for bubble tea, crepes, and ice cream.
Big Bear Brewing Company
Big Bear is the go-to spot in Coral Springs for classic American cuisine. On its massive menu, there is everything one could ask for: juicy steaks and burgers, fresh salads, daily soups, sweet desserts, and much more. The restaurant, located on University Drive, also has a classy rustic atmosphere that, although impressive, still feels local and inviting. Big Bear is a great place for a Sunday family dinner, fancy date, or even casual dining experience. Speaking to its brewing prowess, the brewery has won dozens of local accolades and even national titles for its beloved beers.
Los Bocados
Stating that (the one and only) Guy Fieri has been to Los Bocados would probably be enough to convince you to visit. However, the menu itself, an incredible selection of Mexican street food, is more attestable than even the praise of a big-name celebrity chef. Although the restaurant is sensational every day, you should definitely visit Los Bocados’ brand-new brick-and-mortar location (7031 North State Road 7) on a Tuesday. This is for its signature “Tostada Tuesdays,” at which the award-winning barbecue brisket tostadas are only $3 each. Whether you choose the tostadas, the mahi-mahi tacos, or a toasted burrito, they are all excellently paired with an imported Mexican coke for maximum satisfaction.
Cherry Smash
Cherry Smash is the sweet cherry on top of any occasion. The ice cream parlor not only has some of the richest, creamy, and decadent homemade ice cream I have ever had, but also boasts one of the most awe-inspiring interiors I have ever seen. Designed like an ice cream parlor from the 1920s, the place is packed with all kinds of antiques, memorabilia, and sculptures from every decade of American pop culture. Ranging from a life-sized statue of Spiderman to a miniature choo-choo train, the interior is a spectacle to admire while enjoying a homemade hot fudge sundae.