My Top 5 Newark Spots
Submitted by Francesca Tero
If you were to ask my freshman self, 3 years ago today, what she could do in Newark, she would say “nothing.” In fact, I was actually debating transferring schools because I found myself so underwhelmed living in Delaware. However, I’m a few years older now, and I can confidently say that I’ve learned to appreciate this tax-free land for all it has to offer. I am not from Delaware, so you might want to take my words with a grain of salt, but these are some things I’ve grown to love about living here, and things that I will miss once I graduate in May.
1. Cafeneo
This Greek cafe on South Main is absolutely perfect for any occasion. Whether you want to drink a fancy specialty latte and yap with your friends or need to lock in with some aesthetic scenery, Cafeneo has got you covered. I’ve come here countless times to try their different seasonal menus and drinks, delicious Greek pastries, and spend quality time with friends or locked in by myself. My favorite drink from them is called the Cafe Samoan, and it’s a chocolate and coconut cold brew. Fun fact, I recently met the barista who created it and told her she was a genius.
2. Roots
I am really not sure if Roots is just a Delaware thing; I doubt it is, but I had never heard of it until coming to UD. I’ll never forget my first time walking in and not knowing what to order out of all of the options of signature bowls they had, on top of being able to make a bowl yourself. Luckily, I went with my Filipino Student Association Ate and Grand-Ate, and they passed down the most legendary Roots order: El Jefe with the works, sub chicken for BBQ Tofu. Shoutout to Hera and Julia, both former E-Board members and Co-Presidents of AAPC. Maybe it was their company since it was one of my first times hanging out with them, but that bowl left a lasting impression on me.
3. Pho Cali
Okay, so I’m cheating a bit with this one because it’s in Wilmington, but seriously, it’s my favorite Vietnamese place around here. Anything you try there will be amazing. I am going to take a brief pause to give credit to my friend, true Delawarean and resident of Wilmington, Sydney Nguyen, for telling me about this place, because I’ve really never looked back since trying it. It’s so serious that it’s the only thing I wanted to eat and look forward to after taking the 8-hour MCAT back in March.
4. Newark Reservoir, White Clay Creek, Pomeroy Trail
Enough about food, Newark has some great natural scenery to check out. Whether you’re an outdoors person or not, it’s nice to take a walk or a run by the reservoir or jump into the creek with some friends. Newark also has a walking/biking trail that runs through the city with outlets at different points, like North Campus, the Newark shopping center, etc. Great picnic spot if you ever want to go! My boyfriend took me here the day we made things official, so it’s definitely a spot I cherish.
5. La Casa Pasta
This is the PERFECT date night spot or place for any celebration, whether it’s a birthday, graduation, or anniversary. Great prices and high-quality Italian food. They have a beautiful bar area and also have live music on some nights, as well as rotating chef specials. My personal favorites are their baked mussels and spicy rigatoni. Try their cocktails and some wine too if you’re 21+!
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