On the Menu

April 11, 2024

Free tacos from local vendors attract hundreds at Deltopia

By Nina Timofeyeva

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 restaurants dished ...

April 1, 2024

Protein-packed snacks

By Nina Timofeyeva

With the plethora of snack options available, how do you ensure you're getting enough protein without sacrificing taste or convenience?

March 21, 2024

Spring into spring quarter with KOZY’s new spring drinks

By Kendra Martinez

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 diverse in drinks and of...

March 21, 2024

Letter from the Editor: lessons in food writing and growth

By Stephanie Gerson

On the Menu Co-Editor Stephanie Gerson reflects on her time writing for the Nexus and the lessons learned along the way.

March 15, 2024

“Paul Hollywood’s Pies & Puds”: Indulge in pastry perfection

By Abigail Monti

“Paul Hollywood’s Pies & Puds” is a timeless cookbook that includes hundreds of mouthwatering meals and desserts enveloped in pastry dough.

March 7, 2024

New restaurants, notable closures and food news in and around I.V. 

By Stephanie Gerson

Some new and old eateries are closing shop, while others are hosting community events and offering student discounts. 

March 7, 2024

Loco for Zocalo: Isla Vista’s most underrated dining destination

By Josh Rhodes

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 definitely makes a compelling...

February 29, 2024

Food bank finds: potato medley home fries

By Abigail Monti

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. Your opinion is no...

February 29, 2024

An ode to cottage cheese

By On The Menu Editor, Nina Timofeyeva

Despite its lack of prominent marketing and general tendency to get put on the back shelf, cottage cheese has recently started to gain popularity.

February 22, 2024

Food-focused events and initiatives to celebrate Black History in and around I.V.

By Stephanie Gerson

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 month and all year lo...

February 22, 2024

Happy Vegantine’s! I.V. Community Center’s Vegan Holiday Food Fair 

By Josh Rhodes

What better way for myself and others to treat ourselves to our well-deserved self-love than to get some delicious food from Isla Vista’s Valentine's Day Vegan Food Fair.

February 15, 2024

Indulging in delight: The irresistible offerings of Kin Bakeshop

By Felicia Lo

Located at the Turnpike Shopping Center, Kin Bakeshop crafts mochi donuts, brioche donuts and a special set of drinks inspired by Asian desserts.

February 15, 2024

Bananas today, gone tomorrow?

By Pihu Jain

Layers. Multiple of them can be found in onions, people, paint on walls … too complicated, a lot to reveal, often deceptive once you chip away at them. But you know what is almost exactly what it is within as it is...

February 8, 2024

Lunar New Year Festival 2024: Monterey Park’s Foodie Wonderland

By Valerie Fu

With the Year of the Dragon on the horizon, Lunar New Year festivals are being held all across the country in celebration of the luckiest year in the Chinese zodiac.

February 8, 2024

The best (and worst) I.V. restaurants for first dates

By Abigail Monti

As a senior who has gone on more than a few (good and bad) dates within the confines of downtown Isla Vista, read on for my list of the best (and worst) first date locations. 

February 1, 2024

I Açaí you! Oakberry serves up healthy, flavor-packed Brazilian delights for all

By Josh Rhodes

Tucked away at the edge of Isla Vista’s commercial avenue, Pardall Road, lies the town’s newest hidden gem. The hit chain, Oakberry, originates from Brazil and has stores across the globe. Their December opening offe...