Five local spots to grab food off campus
October 30, 2014
For incoming freshmen and transfer students, the first few weeks of fall quarter can be a challenging time. A new school, in some cases a new state or country, and a lot of new people to meet can be overwhelming.
One challenge sticks out above the rest: finding something delicious to eat near campus.
The options on-campus are less than well received by students. A 2012 California State University, East Bay Office of Planning & Institutional Research report showed only 26 percent of students were satisfied with campus dining options. And when you have no idea what options are near campus, you really have no choice.
Allow me to enlighten you with my top 5 grub spots near campus.
5. Bronco Billy’s Pizza Palace – 26775 Hayward Blvd, Hayward; just .5 miles from campus.
An old standby, I have eaten pizza in New York, Europe, and the frozen aisle, and yet Bronco Billy’s pizza is still my favorite.
Order a slice with whatever toppings suit you and you’ll be stunned by their definition of a slice. It’s enough to feed a small army, or one hungry Pioneer.
When you’re dying for a slice, just walk up the hill and all will be right with the world for a few greasy bites.
4. Shabuway – 34308 Alvarado-Niles Rd, Union City; 6 miles from campus.
It is a farther drive than the rest on the list, but if you’re willing to splurge a bit and try something new, trust me on this one.
Choose between seaweed, spicy miso, or ginger broths and cook your beef at your table with delicious fresh veggies and seasonings.
A fun, delicious, interactive, and surprisingly light lunch or dinner option for CSUEB’s foodies. The all-you-can-eat option can quickly lead to an eating competition among friends.
3. Sapporo Sushi – 22507 Main St., Hayward; just 2.9 miles from campus.
As the self-proclaimed Bay Area’s foremost consumer of Japanese food, I’ve tried every sushi spot near CSUEB during my time here. Despite the hole-in-the-wall atmosphere, Sapporo is a clear victor.
Very friendly staff and a no-nonsense approach have made this place among the most popular sushi spots in the Hayward/Castro Valley area.
Great quality sushi without ridiculous prices and a fun atmosphere, the walls are covered in Polaroid pictures of happy customers, make Sapporo your first-choice sushi restaurant near campus.
2. Buffalo Bill’s Brewery – 1082 B St, Hayward; just 2.7 miles from campus.
A mere 5-minute drive from CSUEB, Buffalo Bill’s offers solid pub fare, with excellent burgers and sandwiches, underrated pizzas and great appetizers.
For our students of legal drinking age, this is Hayward’s best spot for a good craft beer. Try a grilled chicken sandwich and a craft brew while kicking back with some friends after class.
1. Val’s Burgers– 2115 Kelly St, Hayward; just 3.6 miles from campus.
A short drive from Carlos Bee Boulevard to B Street brings you to the Mecca of Bay Area burgerdom, the Holy Grail of gigantic milkshakes. If you can traverse the oddly shaped parking lot and bring cash, as cards are not accepted, order a Mama Burger with grilled onions and a milkshake. Thank me later.
