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This is a cross-post from my blog on Spartan Connect. Check out the original post here.

There are so many options for food in and around campus, it’s overwhelming. I couldn’t possibly mention all of them here (and look for a better restaurant review in a future blog post). However, I can note some of the local highlights:

Woody’s Oasis Bar & Grill: There are several Woody’s around campus (one in the International Center, one off of Trowbridge, and one on Grand River). The one on Grand River is by far the best, with an extensive menu and a good amount of seating. They have a good balance of Middle Eastern cuisine and Western food, for the internationally timid diners. It’s not exactly what you’d get if you were to go to a Middle Eastern country, but it’s pretty delicious regardless.

If you’re a fan of Sushi, there are probably 8 or 9 options. Do NOT go to Sushi Go. Trust me. Also, NEVER EVER EVER order delivery sushi. I know you were considering it. It’s ALWAYS a bad idea. If you’re looking for delicious sushi, check out Sushi Ya. It’s located next to Espresso Royale on Grand River (and they have some pretty awesome tempura rolls). At the end of your meal, your table is served tempura fried bananas that are to die for. If you have a little more money to spend, try Sansu in Hannah Plaza. It’s a little higher class with a larger selection and a slightly larger bill at the end, but it’s worth it. Take your parents. You can also head there on Tuesday with your Student ID for a discount.

If you’re a fan of Indian cuisine, check out Sindhu’s in Hannah Plaza. They have a lunch buffet with a large amount of options, or they also have a large menu of choices. It’s hard to be disappointed at their authentic cuisine.

A lesser known restaurant is What Up Dawg?, a hot dog spot on M.A.C. They have beer for $2 and a variety of dogs and toppings. If you’re a Chicago hot dog fan, definitely check it out (and get the poppy seed bun. Mmm mm). They serve chilli and fries, too!

My favorite restaurant of all time happens to be located in Old Town, Lansing. The magical, the mythical: Golden Harvest. The food is so good, it’s almost impossible to go without a line of people waiting outside (whatever the weather looks like). They have new specials every day, open from 7am to 2pm. It’s the best breakfast you’ll ever have. Furthermore, the atmosphere is so fun. It’s a very small restaurant with tattooed cooks and loud blasting rock music. The wait (which may be 30 minutes or more) is 100% worth it. Technically, it’s not East Lansing. But it’s too wonderful not to mention now!

Are you looking to get some work done and enjoy a variety of tea options? Check out Wanderer’s Teahouse on Grand River. With several options for tea, unlimited refills of hot water or iced tea, and a selection of homemade crepes, sandwiches, and salads, it’s hard not to love this place. It gets pretty packed during the school year with students studying, but there’s always room for more. They also are often hosts to open mic nights for a fun evening activity!

Other places to put up your feet and enjoy delicious caffinated beverages include the original Biggby on Grand River (open 24 hours) or the Biggby in the Union, Espresso Royale, and Starbucks. Whatever coffee floats your boat, we have it. We also have several Sparty’s cafes around campus, which boast Combo X-Change (your future best friend).

For the 21+ crowd, there are numerous bars located in East Lansing. There are so many, I could hardly amass an appropriate list, so check out this website instead. Woody’s always has great drink specials and the Peanut Barrel is famous for their cheap & delicious Long Islands. They do, however, cap you off after two. Harper’s offers a selection of homemade beers, stouts and ales. Crunchy’s is known to have great pizza and karaoke on weekend nights; July is also Michigan Beer Month, where they’re featuring local craft brews.

Ok, so that’s great. But sometimes, we want to stay in and not worry about going out. Good news! Get delivery from some of your favorite restaurants, straight to your dorm or apartment! Check out Campusfood.com and register to collect points (which lead to coupons) every time you order.

Feel free to leave a comment or tweet me at @heyawhite with any follow up questions or conversation!