5 Things To Try Around USC Campus
By Samantha Romero ‘16
1.Nature’s Brew
The atmosphere, the people, and of course the food is amazing! As soon as you walk through the doors you are teleported to a cozy nook of a cafe. They offer a variety of food options that are both healthy and delicious. If you’re in the mood for something light and fresh I recommend trying the farm fresh green salads where you have options like the Kale Greek Salad or a classy Nicoise. For an additional fee you can also add protein options such as salmon, chilled chicken, tuna salad, or a hard-boiled egg.
If you prefer something a little heavier to fill you up, I recommend trying the sandwiches. I usually get fully with only half of a sandwich. My favorite is their turkey sandwich with avocado. However, I also recommend trying favorites like the Brisket, Italian or Tuna Melt sandwich. If you’re vegan, they have the scrumptious vegan sandwich made with sweet and spicy yams, bell peppers, onions, eggplant, pickled beets, house-made lemon garlic veganaise.
Once you’ve satisfied your hunger, don’t forget to try their drinks and desserts. Nature’s Brew is known for their assortment of smoothies and green juices, and coffee. It’s also the perfect quick treat if you’re on-the-go. After a cycling class, I love their protein smoothies. But, if you’re just looking for a refreshing drink to accompany your plate, I would try their energizing freshly made juices. Otherwise, if you’re looking for a caffeinated pick me up, I recommend the Dirty Chai, the perfect balance of chai and caffeine.
2.AmazeBowls
If you haven’t tried the famous Amazebowl, then you’ve certainly seen fellow classmates walking into class with one of these delicious treats. The original amazebowl is a delicious concoction of acai, one of the healthiest berries because of it’s high levels of antioxidants. So not only is it a healthy snack but it’s a flavorful explosion for your taste buds.
However, my favorite amazebowl is the Dragon Ball-Z Bowl otherwise known as the Pitaya Bowl. It has a sweeter taste the acai but it is just as “amaze-ing”. Each bowl also comes with a tasty layer of granola and honey with freshly diced fruit of the day such as grapes, bananas, strawberries, kiwi, and/or blueberries. Nonetheless, you have the option to personalize your amazebowl with additional items such as cacao nibs, coconut flakes, etc.
Psst! Stay tuned because word on the street is that they are opening their first brick and mortar Amazebowls store in the Arts District in Downtown LA.
3.Urban Espresso
This food truck is the answer to your dreams. If you’re walking to class and only have a few minutes to spare then this is the place for you. Their menu is delightfully simple and straight to the point. You can choose from either the espresso bar or the specialty drinks. A personal favorite is the nutella latte, it’s as delicious as it sounds.
Their breakfast options are a must-try. I recommend the BLT and Avocado sandwich, a perfect layering of applewood smoked bacon, mixed greens, sliced tomato and avocado.
4.The Good Karma Cafe
Hidden beneath the stairway is a lush oasis known as The Good Karma Cafe. They are open every Tuesday and Wednesday. Not only is it all-you-can eat, healthy, and vegan but it’s extremely delicious. You can also bring a container to take some home for later.
5.Deans List Cafe
A natural haven of sorts, the Dean’s List Cafe is a welcoming cafe located in the same area where The Good Karma Cafe is found. It’s enough to say that they have sriracha bottles on every table. They have a variety of options from boba to paninis. My personal favorite is their frsshly squeezed orange juice, it’s the perfect pick me up if you’re in need of some extra Vitamin C.The employees are also sweet and welcoming, which adds to the character of this quaint cafe.
