College-town cuisine can often be generalized as only fast-casual hot spots or late-night eateries catering to college students’ tastes. However, when parents come into town, a student wants to impress mom and dad. That’s why we rounded up the five top state college restaurants for college students and parents. Next time the parents travel into town and the family wants to go out for dinner, you’ll know exactly where to take them.
“Forks up!” is ASU’s motto and when it comes to dining out with parents, it’s definitely a “Forks up!” situation. Leave Mill Ave. and cruise a few minutes to South Tempe to find modern Southwest cuisine at Ghost Ranch. Step inside to find décor by artist Gennaro Garcia, which sets the scene for an elegant yet relaxed dinner with the parents. Order family-style entrees like the tacos or enchiladas, or savor the Green Chile Burger, seven ounces of wagyu beef topped with green chiles and white cheddar for bites of meaty deliciousness all to yourself. Wash it all down with Ghost Ranch Margaritas for the table.
Book your stay at Vib Tempe by Best Western Phoenix-Tempe.
The college town of Ann Arbor has been associated with the name “Zingerman’s” for decades. As UMich students will tell you that Zingerman’s decadent and delicious sandwiches are their favorite. But if the parents are in town and you’re looking more for a sit-down meal, skip the delicatessen and go to Zingerman’s Roadhouse instead. Nominated for multiple James Beard awards, and boasting a win in 2011, the Zagat-rated restaurant brings the local flavors of Ann Arbor and elevates them for diners. Try entrees like, the “Chicken Fried” Mushroom Burger or the BBQ Cabrito – whatever Head Chef Bobb Bennett’s creates for the menu is sure to be delicious.
Book your stay at Best Western Detroit Livonia.
Everything’s bigger in Texas, but UT Longhorns know that good things come in small packages at Musashino Sushi Dokoro. Located right on the west campus, this traditional Japanese restaurant has been the launching ground for many famous local chefs’ careers and serves Edomae-style sushi. Edomae-style sushi originated in Tokyo during the 1820’s and gets its name from Tokyo’s old name Edo. In order to uphold tradition, Musashino Sushi Dokoro imports fish worldwide, including Tsukiji, Japan, to serve only the freshest seafood to its diners. Order custom family-style Omakase – the chef’s choice of sushi and sashimi – for courses that will delight and surprise you and your parents.
Book your stay at Aiden by Best Western @ Austin City Hotel.
U-Dub knows what’s cooking at Din Tai Fung, a place where “Dumpling Dreams” really do come true. Din Tai Fung is home to Xiao Long Bao, which means “little dumpling in basket”, and these broth-filled, steamed dumplings hailing from the Jiangnan region of China have been reputed to be the best dumplings in the world. Dine out here with your parents to fulfill the “Dumpling Dream” and get your Xiao Long Bao filled with Korubuta Pork, Crab & Korubuta Pork, or Chicken – they will transport you to another world.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Pioneer Square Hotel Downtown.
George Street may only be a few streets down from College Ave. but Rutgers students know the vibe is just a little bit more mature than its counterpart, to say the least. If you want to take Mom and Dad out for a night on the town, you’ll have to decide which amongst the George Street restaurants is worthy of a sit-down dinner, and most likely, The Frog and The Peach will win. Founded in 1983 by a husband and wife duo, who are also Rutgers University alumni, The Frog and the Peach has built a reputation for its local flavors and New American cuisine. Start your meal with a daring dish, whether it be the House Smoked Alligator or Charred Portuguese Octopus.
Book your stay at The Westfield Inn, BW Signature Collection.