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.
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FoodTraveler l Winter 2016