Last semester, two of my friends and I decided we were going to eat at and review every restaurant in Oxford. Far-fetched? Maybe. Harmful to our wallets? Definitely. But it’s something to do, and sometimes that’s all you can ask for.
Though we haven’t yet completed our challenge, my friends and I have found several hidden gems. So, the next time you’re thinking about hitting up Skipper’s or Bagel and Deli for the 1,000th time, consider one of these four places instead.
Happy Kitchen
Oxford has a lot of Chinese takeout spots, but the best one is hands-down Happy Kitchen.
Serving everything from American-Chinese classics to authentic street food, Happy Kitchen has a little something for everyone, regardless of preference. I suggest going family-style and picking out several appetizers and entrees to split among a few people. One entree can easily equate to three full meals. And trust me, my love is legit. In all of Oxford, there are only two restaurants my friends and I have eaten at over three times, and Happy Kitchen is one of them.
My order (for 3+ people): Scallion pancakes, pork wonton in chili oil, chicken lo mein, sichuan cold noodles and chicken pad thai.
Ohana Island Grill
Ohana Island Grill is a place that everyone who tries it loves, but nobody seems to remember when picking out their favorite Oxford restaurants. With generous portions and plenty of classic Hawaiian foods to try, I am confident that everyone can find something they like, whether it’s seafood, soup or BBQ.
While this spot is open for dinner, I honestly prefer it as a lunch spot, especially because the leftovers keep really well. Though it’s not my order, I would like to shout out the Spam Musubi for only $3.30. It’s a great snack or light lunch option and a bright taste of Hawaii right here in OxVegas.
My order (1 person): Chicken katsu with white rice and macaroni salad
Halal Food Inc.
Despite the dining hall’s valiant attempts at recreating Middle Eastern cuisine, nothing in Oxford has quite measured up to Halal Food Inc. Open until 9 p.m., Halal Food Inc. offers your classic halal cart options, including gyros, hummus, fries, grape leaves, falafel and more.
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Since there is never a line, you can pick up your food super quickly and then walk it over to some green space for a little picnic moment, which is what my friends and I have done in the past and loved. Plus, everything is, as the name suggests, halal, and the restaurant accommodates a variety of other dietary restrictions to boot.
My order (1 person): Chicken shawarma plate, side of fries, hummus and pita
Little India
Finally, we enter the classic Little India vs. Krishna debate. As you can probably tell, Little India has my vote. The portions are large, the food has more flavor and better textures and there’s a discount for Miami students. It is absolutely worth the additional 10 minutes of walking time. If you’re into family style, you can absolutely order a variety of dishes, but what my friends and I do is each order our own entrees and then share a variety of sides, naans and appetizers. If you love Indian cuisine, try Little India.
My order (1 person): Lamb Rogan Josh, bhatura and garlic/paneer naan
greenpt@miamioh.edu
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