Matt Garnica/Daily Nexus

Matt Garnica/Daily Nexus

Isla Vista has all types of food. From our famous Freeb!rds to the many different pizza parlors, most students are content with dining in I.V. all year. But why not explore past the streets of Pardall and Embarcadero del Norte? Goleta offers a huge variety of places to eat right outside our confined bubble, including the revamped and reopened retro-Americana restaurant, Farmer Boy.

Presenting an antique ambiance, Farmer Boy is the perfect place to find delicious burgers, fries and milkshakes. Customers are greeted by white walls, parlor-like tables and chairs that take them back to 1958 when the restaurant chain first opened. For those who like to eat breakfast at any time, (I mean, who doesn’t) Farmer Boy offers their “originals” to be served all day. The menu ranges from burgers, wraps and sandwiches to eggs, pancakes and waffles. They also offer a traditional root beer float and an all-American apple pie.

Matt Garncia/Daily Nexus

Matt Garnica/Daily Nexus

I had only been waiting for about twenty minutes before the waitress brought my burger with a side of onion rings and a vanilla shake. The meal presented itself well, fulfilling expectations visually. The burger was fresh and colorful, the onion rings were crispy and large and the vanilla shake had a rich, creamy texture. The combination of these three items in addition to the ambience of the restaurant made the experience very enjoyable. The meal was exactly what you’d hope for in a simple burger and shake combo: flavorful and nostalgic. Unfortunately, Farmer Boy’s menu limits those who are vegetarian to a semi-selective menu.

Overall, Farmer Boy proves to be an impressive old-fashioned diner. It’s the perfect place for those looking for a nice breakfast or lunch in a comfortable environment. It is an ideal restaurant to bring a family or group of friends, rather than a date providing a social and comfortable atmosphere. While the food may not be original or artisanal, Farmer Boy brings genuinely good burgers and fries with a reasonable price. Sometimes you just need a familiar and classic burger to reassure you. If you’re looking for an old-fashioned burger joint, be sure to stop by Farmer Boy restaurant at 3427 upper State Street.

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