My Roommate and I Turned Into Food Critics for the Day

When considering where to attend college, the local town and community are undoubtedly a big factor in your decision. One of my best pieces of advice for prospective Oberlin students is to allow for enough time during your visit to explore town and get a sense of the community that could be your home. Have a long walk around, pop your head into some buildings, go to an event at the Allen Memorial Art Museum, and get some grub at a local restaurant. Of course I understand that oftentimes college tours are fit into your already busy schedule, making it tough to allow for a significant amount of time on campus. Therefore, I wanted to make a blog that allows you to get a pretty good taste of the town of Oberlin if you aren’t able to yourself.

If you caught my horrible pun above I’m guessing you can tell that this blog will be all about food at Oberlin! In particular, I’ll be highlighting my favorite restaurants you can find in town and my favorite order at each of them. For fairness, I’ve also included my roommate Chloe’s rating (her last name is Bendoris, mine is Martin!) and a brief comment from her on each restaurant so you don’t have to solely rely on my opinion. I’m hoping that this allows you to get excited about Oberlin's town and envision it as your future home. Or even if you are able to have a meal during your visit to campus, maybe it will help you narrow down your lunch choices. Oberlin might be a small town but we have so much personality, a plethora of activities, and an abundance of fantastic food it makes picking my favorite place impossible. Without further ado, a (novice) food review of Oberlin! 

1. Blue Rooster Bakehouse

What Chloe Bendoris Says: 7/10. The staff is so friendly, and the food is unique and fresh. The only downside is that they sell out pretty quickly so be sure to get there early! Also a great spot for eavesdropping on first dates. My favorite thing is their seasonal eggnog cake.

What I say: 1000/10. I told Chloe I would stay within the scale but I just can’t for Blue Rooster. Their baked goods are fresh and delicious, and can be heated up if you request it. Also make sure to get a “Chider” which is the most comforting mix of chai and cider. My best tip for you is to grab a feast of pastries (Jalapeno cream cheese croissant is my favorite) and then go take it for a picnic in Tappan Square.

2. Lupitas

What Chloe Bendoris Says: 8/10. The service is very fast, and the food is both delicious and affordable. My only complaint is that I can’t go there every day. My favorite thing is the Yolanda or Mole Poblano. 

What I say: 8/10. I completely agree with Chloe on this one. The service is quick, and the food comes out steaming. This is my favorite thing to get after a long week when all I need is a giant plate of comfort food. My top item here is hands down the chimichanga. 

3. Ying's

What Chloe Bendoris Says: 6.5/10. Portion sizes are huge! A hot bowl of pho is so perfect when it gets a little chilly out. The biggest con is that it’s a bit of a walk from campus. My favorite thing is the brisket pho hands down. 

What I say: 7/10. I think my rating definitely changes depending on the season. In the winter I definitely frequent Ying's more because the food is so cozy and comforting. Get the chicken pho and a plate of dumplings and you’ll be golden. 

4. Kim's

What Chloe Bendoris Says: 7/10. Affordable for college students! Portion sizes are a bit smaller compared to other places but the extensive grocery and ice cream options make up for it. My favorite thing is their Korean friend's chicken.

What I say: 9/10. Kim's is so so delicious. There aren’t a lot of seats inside but if you can snag a spot be sure to order their bulgogi hotpot, which can only be ordered for dine in. 

5. Lorenzo's

What Chloe Bendoris Says: 6/10. The pizza options are good but I wish they had pasta. Not the most affordable for a weeknight dinner but makes for a good special outing. My go-to pizza is their three cheese pizza. 

What I say: 7/10. I’m typically not a huge fan of pizza in general but Lorenzo's is probably one of the best pizzas I’ve had in my life. Although I will say, my favorite thing on the menu isn’t the pizza but rather their fresh garlic breadsticks with cheese sauce. 

6. Slow Train Cafe

What Chloe Bendoris Says: 5/10. I have nothing against the drinks or food here but it is always so crowded and loud that it’s difficult to have a conversation or study session. If you go, be sure to get the chai latte--it’s a bit spicy and so comforting!

What I say: 6/10. Points are solely removed because of how loud it is. My favorite drink here is the English breakfast tea latte, which I always pair with their famous egg and cheese bagel. Most people stop at Slow Train when they visit Oberlin, and I have to agree that it shouldn’t be missed during any visit to Oberlin. It’s also a great idea to hold a warm drink in your hands during your winter visit to campus! 

Well, that’s it! I hope that this helps you envision Oberlin’s town a bit better, especially if you're a foodie like me. The food is delicious, and every week one of my favorite things to do is pick out my Friday night dinner outing with friends. I hope you have a chance to eat at these places during a visit to campus, but if not I hope I was able to paint a delicious visual in your head of all these amazing places in town. Bon Appetit!