Reviews

February 10, 2025

Ai Cha: bringing new options to IV

By Nina Timofeyeva

You might have heard of the robots taking over Isla Vista. Or maybe you’ve walked past the Ai Cha storefront and personally seen the claw-machine-looking gadget encased in a pink box machine. In either case, these seem...

November 18, 2024

Panino: Your Next Best Sandwich

By Nina Timofeyeva

On a warm, sunny autumn afternoon this weekend, I made my way through downtown Santa Barbara towards my long-awaited destination. I had heard stories from some friends that around this area exists a sandwich shop by the ...

October 10, 2024

Sustainability can start with your morning coffee

By Rosalia D'Acquisto

As one of Isla Vista’s first California Certified Green Businesses, KOZY Coffee sets a fantastic example to other I.V. businesses in considering a sustainable lens within their business environment.

May 2, 2024

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

By Josh Rhodes

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.

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 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.

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 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...

February 1, 2024

Sunshine, tacos and Bruce Lee: A day at Hana Kitchen

By Katelyn Waters

Hana Kitchen's teriyaki mango tacos are an exciting new venture into Asian fusion cuisine.

January 25, 2024

Kimchi fries, wonton soup and more: Alumni-owned Asian fusion restaurant ASIA 101 serves up cozy dishes to keep you warm all winter

By Stephanie Gerson

At ASIA 101, Mojo Teahouse’s fried favorites are back along with a limited menu of noodle soups and rice dishes.

January 18, 2024

Kick off winter 2024 with KOZY’s seasonal menu

By Kendra Martinez

KOZY’s winter seasonal menu is the perfect way to ring in winter quarter.

December 14, 2023

Tenaya Market & Eatery’s holiday lattes: ho ho ho or no?

By Urmi Mandal

Tenaya Market & Eatery at the Santa Catalina residence hall and San Joaquin villages provides a one-stop shop for to-go fresh meals, and for the holiday season, they are offering seasonal items such as the sugar cookie l...

November 16, 2023

A guide to navigating Trader Joe’s fall and winter seasonal specialties

By Stephanie Gerson

Whether you’re a dedicated Trader Joe’s customer who finds joy in trying their latest creations or just enjoy the foods traditionally eaten around the holidays, this guide will give you a few ideas on how to incorpor...