Food Traveler Magazine Winter 2016 | Page 96

the frugal foodie Gainesville, FL For a town of around 130,000 people, Gainesville has a surprising food scene. Being home to the University of Florida, it draws people from around the world to this small north Florida city. Naturally this mix of cultures provides a variety of ethnic food options. Fill your bowls with unctuous stock and noodles at Crane Ramen or some truly great Pho at Faith Vietnamese, slurping is encouraged by the way. Find signature sushi rolls and seasonally inspired chef selections at Dragonfly. Latin flavors are served up at Emiliano’s Café, or get authentic Mexican dishes at La Pasadita. Of course you don’t have to go far to get your fill of burgers and pizza. Loosey’s Pub, The Top, Copper Monkey, and New Deal Café take turns for best burger honors, and if you find yourself hungry from a day on the river, make a stop at the award winning The Great Outdoors Restaurant in High Springs. Pizza is served up in a variety of styles from artfully crafted selections at Humble Wood Fire, NY style at Big Lou’s, or in a more eclectic atmosphere at Satchel’s where you can order your pie in a 1965 Ford Falcon Van. A good beer pairs well with all these food selections. Gainesville is home to great craft breweries. Alligator brewing is a nano-brewery located inside Tall Paul’s in historic downtown. First Magnitude carries a theme of nearby freshwater springs through its entire beer lineup. Swamp Head Brewery is Gainesville’s biggest brewery and is home to The Wetlands tasting room. Foodies often focus on other Florida cities like Orlando, Tampa, or Miami, but a stop in Gainesville can offer up plenty of dining delights if you know where to look. 94 FoodTraveler l Winter 2016