On the Menu

Student-run eatery Friday’s stakes compelling claim on I.V. sandwich scene

May 2, 2024 by

Unbeknownst to most Isla Vista residents, a new must-see food shop has opened up its doors and is taking the sandwich scene by storm.
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UCSB’s Raíces de mi Tierra hosts second annual Sabores de mi Tierra night market

April 25, 2024 by

UC Santa Barbara’s Raíces de mi Tierra held its second annual Sabores de mi Tierra night market at Little Acorn Park on April 20. 
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Farm fresh finds: a guide to local spring produce

April 25, 2024 by

As we leave winter quarter behind and head into spring — marked in Isla Vista by intermittent sunshine, rain and relentlessly annoying coastal fog — local markets begin bursting with colorful spri...
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Colorful and carefree: a recipe for chuski and a smile

April 18, 2024 by

Chuski (or gola, depending on what part of India you’re from), is something akin to shaved ice. It reminds me of the summers of my youth, one hand in my nana’s, the other sticky with sweet syrup a...
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Lao Wang’s nifty noodle bowl is sure to knock your socks off

April 18, 2024 by

As the site of numerous club fundraisers and Greek life events, Lao Wang has cemented itself as one of the most social and vibrant restaurants in Isla Vista. The quaint noodles, buns and brew spot jus...
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Free tacos from local vendors attract hundreds at Deltopia

April 11, 2024 by

Hundreds of hungry students descended upon the tents serving tacos at the Isla Vista Spring Festival, and one could practically feel the hunger radiating from these jaded party-goers. Four brave local...
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Protein-packed snacks

April 1, 2024 by

With the plethora of snack options available, how do you ensure you're getting enough protein without sacrificing taste or convenience?
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Spring into spring quarter with KOZY’s new spring drinks

March 21, 2024 by

After the success of its specialty winter menu, KOZY Coffee has recently transitioned into a new spring menu that is full of refreshing drinks perfect for the new season. The spring menu is quite dive...
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Letter from the Editor: lessons in food writing and growth

March 21, 2024 by

On the Menu Co-Editor Stephanie Gerson reflects on her time writing for the Nexus and the lessons learned along the way.
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“Paul Hollywood’s Pies & Puds”: Indulge in pastry perfection

March 15, 2024 by

“Paul Hollywood’s Pies & Puds” is a timeless cookbook that includes hundreds of mouthwatering meals and desserts enveloped in pastry dough.
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New restaurants, notable closures and food news in and around I.V. 

March 7, 2024 by

Some new and old eateries are closing shop, while others are hosting community events and offering student discounts. 
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Loco for Zocalo: Isla Vista’s most underrated dining destination

March 7, 2024 by

It almost goes without saying in Isla Vista that Freebirds is perceived to be the uncontested king of Mexican food, I would like to bring to the forefront another Mexican eatery in I.V. that definitel...
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Food bank finds: potato medley home fries

February 29, 2024 by

In my experience, there are two types of breakfast-eaters in this world: those who opt for savory flavors and those who opt for sweet. (No, I will not be acknowledging those who don’t like breakfast...
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An ode to cottage cheese

February 29, 2024 by and

Despite its lack of prominent marketing and general tendency to get put on the back shelf, cottage cheese has recently started to gain popularity.
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Food-focused events and initiatives to celebrate Black History in and around I.V.

February 22, 2024 by

From soul food and live performances to cultural activities and limited-time food fundraisers, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate and uplift Black culture and community in Santa Barbara this m...
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