Lows in the 40s? As colder weather bares its head this week, students may turn to warmer, more comforting foods off campus.
Here are some top picks for comfort food to warm up your evening meals:
The best option on the menu is the create-your-own pasta section.
From a list of sauces and pasta, pick and choose your favorite tastes and textures for the perfect pasta dish.
Although this restaurant is not “fast-casual,” service is usually prompt on weeknights.
The portions are large and enough to share with a friend or even take home to enjoy later. If in doubt, you cannot go wrong with penne pasta and their classic pomodoro sauce.
Homemade Chicken Tortilla Soup at Bandito’s in Snider PlazaBanditos is another close-to-campus favorite for happy hour and large dinners with friends, but if you have not had their tortilla soup you have missed the mark.
Available in cup size for a small dinner after chips and salsa, or to pair with an entrée, this soup is just the right amount of spicy.
Unlike some restaurants, their version of chicken tortilla soup is thicker and darker than some broth/vegetable-base alternatives.
It is heavy enough to enjoy as a meal and hits the spot if you’re craving something spicy and hot.
Pasta Bar at Vapiano’s in Mockingbird StationThis new bistro/pasta bar style restaurant has an interesting take on casual Italian dining. At the door, take a card then make your choices at the pasta, salad or pizza bars past the hostess stand. For chilly nights, their made-before-your-eyes pasta bowls are the perfect “fast-casual” comfort food option. From a list of entrees, you can increase or decrease the ingredients to your liking and choose your pasta type. Prices are reasonable for many of the basic pasta dishes considering the large portions.
Vapiano’s restaurant style also makes this a great alternative for comfort food to pick up on the go.
Three Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup at The PorchLooking for a relaxing dinner place to go with friends or family? The Porch on Knox-Henderson is great for a cozy atmosphere as the weather turns colder. Their menu consists of classic Americana dishes such a cheeseburgers, grilled steak salad, roasted chicken and a variety of sandwiches and salads. If you’re in the mood for classic soup and sandwich, their Three Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup gives a more mature spin on the cold weather classic. The sandwich consists of Port Salute, Provolone and Cheddar with sliced tomatoes. Pair this with their rich-roasted tomato, basil and parm soup and it’s the ultimate comfort-food dinner option.
