la petite boulangerie

So, you're a college student eh? I bet you're tired of fast food and want to try something new. Let me tell you about this little french bakery in the NoDa area in Charlotte called Amelie's. 

This wonderful little restaurant caters to people of all ages, but most of all, college students like me and you. The quiet and peaceful environment gives students the luxury of being able to study and get school work done in a sociable atmosphere. After opening in 2008, this place has taken off and has been named one of the top 10 places to eat in Charlotte by Charlotte Living magazine.

 Not only do they offer terrific soups and salads, but also delicious sandwiches for a very affordable price. However, Amelie's is known for the illustrious deserts that include creamy pastries, decorated tartines, and coffee that is to die for (if you're a coffee lover like myself). And it's open 24/7!

My recommendation would be the White Bean and Ham soup, Turkey Baguette Sandwich, and the raspberry tart with marshmellow meringue or chocolate mousse cup. 

Not only will these three things fill you up, but it will be very afforable with a total of about $10. You will not regret this decision at all.

Located in NoDa near the corner of 28th street.
2424 N. Davidson St.
Charlotte, NC 28205
704-376-1781
info@ameliesfrenchbakery.com

Open 24 hours, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Eat Dish!

If you live on Campus and have settled for the common fast food chains because you thought that comfort food was only available back at home, think again. Dish is a small restaurant that you will immediately warm up to because of its amazing southern comfort dishes. You get the chance to order the food that you may have grown up on (or wish you did!) at a very affordable price. Dish was featured in the famous show on the Food Network “Diners, Drive-Ins, & Dives”. I think that recognition in itself speaks volumes about the quality of the food and the overall atmosphere and experience. 

At my visit, I ordered the fried green tomatoes as an appetizer and treated myself to the maple-balsamic glazed pork chops, mash potatoes, and macaroni and cheese as an entrée. It was beyond delicious! They have a variety of options from soups/salads to vegetarian sandwiches. 

 nom nom nom

Dish is only 8 miles from UNC Charlotte’s campus. That’s a mere 15 minute drive from complete satisfaction. 

Address: 1220 Thomas Avenue
Charlotte , NC 28205
704.344.0343

Hours: Monday - Thursday 11am - 10pm
Friday - Saturday 11am - 11pm
Bar open late night

Toyama's

Looking for some healthy, non traditional food, that's not only delicious, but also inexpensive!? Well... Toyama's Japanese Express is very high on my recommendation list for off campus, cheap, and tasty Japanese cuisine. Located a mere 10 minutes away from campus, straight down Mallard Creek Church Road this is a very convenient place for students to come eat, relax, and get away from the Wendy's, Chick-Fil-a and Prospector that we have to choose from on campus. During my most recent visit, I chose the Hibachi chicken combo which comes with rice and your choice of veggies. I decided to go with the broccoli and carrots which are delicious.

My friend, who was excited to come with me to Toyama's because she absolutely loves this place, chose Hibachi shrimp combo and for her sides she wanted the zucchini and carrots which come in at a close second to my broccoli and carrots.

  

One of the best things about Toyama's is the fast and friendly service. We walked into the restaurant, ordered our food, and five minutes later before we even had a chance to finish filling our drinks, our food was on its way to the table! Even though I know how much everyone loves not having to wait on their food, the best part of the meal was the fact that both of these meals together cost only 14 dollars! Now that is definitely a great fit for the budget of the average college student. So when you all need a short break from chicken nuggets, cheese burgers, and the pasta and pizza from Mama Leone's, head down Mallard Creek Church Rd and visit Toyama's.

Pike's Old Fashioned Soda Shop

This fine diner is a great relaxing place for all!  The restaurant name says “old fashioned” however its not a cheap run down theme like an old diner (there is also outdoor seating available).

I treated myself to having the full old fashioned experience by getting a chicken sandwich and a root beer float. The milkshakes there are creamy and thick, not what you would receive from any fast food chain. There is also plenty of choices for those who may be veggie eaters, gluten free, or low carb! 

To say it was delicious would be an understatement. The chicken was juicy, cooked to perfection and full of flavor. I chose to have my hawaiian chicken sandwich come with pineapple, teriyaki sauce, and bacon bits. "This meal really brought back some memories of growing up in Puerto rico", says UNC Charlotte student Clarissa Rivera.

For only being less than 20 miles away from campus, you can't go wrong dining at Pike's Old Fashioned Soda Shop!

For reviews, a menu, and directions check out urbanspoon

930 Camden Road
Charlotte, NC 28203
(704) 372-0092

Open Mon-Sat 11am-9pm; Sun 8am-2pm

Train: East/ West Station