 "Photo: Keeley Smith")
Going beyond the delicious food served at UNH's own dining halls, Durham's downtown offers an array of cuisine options for students.
As far as breakfast goes, Young's Restaurant is one of the oldest places around campus. Functioning as a restaurant since 1916, "Grant's" was changed to "Young's" in 1968. They serve family-style food, with breakfast being their most frequented meal.
"Students sporadically come in during the week, usually to take a break, or even to study," said Tina Young. "I think it's a very comfortable atmosphere and its reasonably priced. It's a great place to meet new friends, and we have a lot to offer students."
For those in need of an on-the-go caffeine fix, Breaking New Grounds, the Bagelry and Franz's Food more than adequately fill that need.
Breaking New Grounds has been downtown for over 10 years, offering in their specialty coffees for $3, their delicious pastries and their friendly personnel.
"One good thing about Breaking New Grounds is that it's a community atmosphere," said employee Liz Marcotte. "Whenever you come in here you always end up seeing someone you know. And with delicious drinks and food, what more could you ask for?"
The Bagelry is another favorite for breakfast with its popular bagels, egg melts and super cheese sandwiches. It's been around since the mid-'80s, and according to employee Ethan Roy-Webb, it has "the best bagels in town."
As for the 90-foot Franz's Food eatery located in the Laundromat, breakfast is enjoyed at any hour of the day. It's been open for six years now and is most popular on the weekends.
"It's not uncommon for people to order our breakfast food, even at 6 p.m.," said senior employee Nicole Blanchard. "It's probably the best place on campus, it has a lot of character. It has the most regulars, and it's just good quality food."
As far as lunch goes, pizza places dominate downtown.
The Durham House of Pizza, fondly known as DHOP by students, is a great place to go to get a slice, especially on their slice nights on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, where slices are only $1.50.
It's been around since 1976 and according to employee Katie Colbert, DHOP has been voted the best pizza in Durham for two years running.
Village Pizza is also an option, serving not only pizza but subs as well, with the most popular item being their buffalo chicken calzone.
"We are the hidden gem of downtown Durham," said employee Kelsey French. "Once you eat here you won't leave - no one ever does."
"It's a very homey atmosphere, people come in here and we remember their names, its very casual," said employee Lindsay Davidson.
Some other options for lunch, or even dinner, are Pauly's Pockets and JP's Eatery. Pauly's Pocket's has been around for 10 years and serves Mediterranean-style cuisine, including the popular falafel.
"Its something different and its good, healthy food," said owner Paul Eja.
JP's is known for their subs and salads; their main attraction amongst students is their steak and cheese sub. They offer a variety of different foods for lunch or dinner and they also deliver.
Ballard's, a family-style restaurant and bar, is the first of many food options on the small strip of Main Street, offering lunch and dinner to students, as well as entertainment such as a trivia night and Saturday night live music.
Similar to Ballard's is Libby's Bar and Grill, offering customers American-style food since its opening in 2002. The most popular items on the menu at Libby's include their burgers and rib eye, however students tend to most enjoy the salads and appetizers, especially the nachos.
"We have a big menu that covers everything you could want," said Jay Mayuski. "It's a great place to come watch a game or to bring your parents to."
Finally for dessert, Kaliedascoop is the place to go.
With its large variety of flavors as well as frappes, hot dogs, lemonade and smoothies, there's nothing that won't satisfy. Although it's only their third year running, they have a large following from students and community members.
"We are cheaper than the Dairy Bar and are open longer," said employee Aimee Lam. "We are also right near the Durham Marketplace, so when people get their groceries, they stop by to get a cone as well."
No matter where you decide to eat, downtown Durham has many interesting and varied options for students looking to change up a daily routine, meet new friends or enjoy the friendly, communal atmosphere.
Other area restaurants not mentioned include Wildcat Pizza, Stats Place and Wings Your Way.
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