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As a Michigan student, one of my favorite parts of U-M is its location. Ann Arbor is the perfect mix of campus and downtown, with a diverse community and unique locations for students to explore. In particular, Ann Arbor has a thriving restaurant scene, with a variety of dining options within a walking distance to campus. There’s something for everyone. From classic Japanese cuisine to Cuban street food, here are a few of my favorite spots to visit!

Cultural Cuisine

Starting off with my favorite Ann Arbor restaurant, Frita Batidos is a great option for anyone looking to explore new foods. According to the Michigan Daily, they house the best burger in Ann Arbor, marking it a tried and true place to bring your friends. Their fritas, or burgers, blend perfectly with their batidos, their tropical milkshakes, in an experience that can’t be matched. Visiting another part of the globe, the Slurping Turtle is the perfect spot for anyone looking for good sushi or ramen. It’s conveniently located only a few minutes from campus and is the perfect spot for a celebratory lunch or dinner.

Ann Arbor Staples

It’s impossible to say you’ve visited Ann Arbor without trying a sandwich from the iconic Zingerman’s Deli. Located in Kerrytown and surrounded by walkable shops in the Kerrytown Market, Zingerman’s has something for everyone. While being on the pricey side, their homemade deli sandwiches are the perfect spot to bring parents or visitors when showing off Ann Arbor. On a similar note, Amer’s has been an Ann Arbor staple for over three decades. With a prime location on State Street, it’s impossible to miss and very convenient for students looking for a bite to eat. They have a large variety of foods written on their chalkboard menus, and from breakfast acai bowls to their famous hot dogs, it’s always a good time to visit Amer’s.

For Students

Nestled within local businesses on State Street, Mister Spots is the perfect spot for students who are walking to and from the Michigan Stadium or Yost Ice Arena. With good prices and a fun atmosphere, it’s a great place to bring friends after a Michigan win. It’s also known for being Tom Brady’s favorite place to eat on campus, making it even more special. In my opinion, grabbing a Philly cheesesteak at Mister Spots is a must for any student. Looking for a weekend brunch spot in between studying? The Hen is the perfect place for you. With a variety of low-priced breakfast and lunch options and a solid drink menu, it’s the perfect spot to go with friends. The themed atmosphere is also a plus, with great Instagram-worthy decor scattered throughout their restaurant.

Conclusion

A huge perk of going to Michigan is Ann Arbor. For foodies, it notably has a bustling dining scene with a ton of restaurants to choose from, many within walking distance to campus, and something for everyone. These restaurants are a good place to start when planning your next trip, a meal with friends, or exploring new local spots and are perfect for students looking to try something new. Remember to support local Ann Arbor restaurants — your taste buds will thank you later.