Sometimes there are occasions where eating on campus doesn’t do anything for you and you have a strong urge to go out. Deland might be an incredibly small town, but we are overflowing with great places to eat. There is a restaurant for everyone within a mile of campus.
While there are more than what is on this list that are wonderful, these restaurants really cater to a Stetson student’s cravings and budget.
1. Oudom’s Thai & Sushi
Guys, listen up. This is the perfect place to take a girl on a date. Or, if you’re like me, you can bring your friends on an outing to enjoy amazing sushi and wish a guy were taking you on a date. The food is a little pricey, but it is totally worth it. The sushi is to die for. The Maki Dinner is a great way to get the most for your money. At around $12.99, you get three rolls of sushi, which is plenty for one meal or two if you’re with someone else.
2. Manzano’s Deli
The sandwiches here seem bigger than your arm span. The first time you order a whole here it is incredibly alarming. But, after that, you get used to it and realize what a great deal the food here is. It is amazing quality, and because the portion size is so large, you can take the sandwich to go and make a couple of meals out of it. It was voted Best Gourmet Deli for Southeast Volusia in 2010, so you cannot go wrong. There is something for everyone here.
3. El Taco Amigo
This is definitely what you would call a “hole in the wall” in DeLand. It sits right next to an old gas station, so, if you aren’t careful, you’ll drive right by it. Turn yourself back around. This is some of the best Mexican food I have ever had. The menu caters to everyone, whether you are the picky eater or on a budget. The only downside of this great location is that it is only open until 8 p.m. most days. I know some of us can’t count on two hands how many times we have craved tacos at obscene hours of the night.
4. Boston Coffee House
When the library and coffee shop are so loud you can’t hear your own thoughts, Boston Coffee House will come in clutch. The atmosphere is definitely a lot more laid back and calm than some other places in DeLand. It is perfect for studying or sitting back and enjoying a good book. The coffee selection is glorious, with over ten options to choose from and their dessert options will make other desserts never the same again. This is definitely a place to check out.
5. Fuji Express
If you’re anything like me, you thought about Fuji several times over the summer, yearning for the hibachi or bento boxes. You tried going to other places, but they weren’t the same. Nothing is right in the world unless you have the white sauce to accompany your meal. For those of you who have yet to try this staple establishment, you need to. The food is delicious and well priced. Best of all, they make it in no time at all. More than anything, this restaurant is a spot for students to convene. You cannot make a trip to Fuji without running into someone there and you cannot make a trip to Fuji without taking someone else with you.
If you are an upperclassman, chances are you have already frequented these places and know what I am talking about. But, if you have yet to venture out to the restaurants, give them a try. You won’t be disappointed. There are still many restaurants not on this list that are also great places to grab a bite: Los Dos, Big Rigs, Santorini Restaurant, Half Wall, Bellini’s, and Cress.
The list goes on and on and by the end of your Stetson experience, you'll definitely know where to find some great food and great company.
