Class of 2006, with most of you being new to Rochester, here’s a suggesiton from the Campus Times of some cool restaurants, coffee shops, and clubs to hang out at while you’re here.
Restaurants:
? California Rollin’: Village Gate’s sushi place is one of Rochester’s most-loved dinning areas. Students flock to the restaurant to watch sushi being chopped and sliced right in front of them by master chefs. The atmosphere of the place is also friendly and decorated with aquariums of exotic fish.274 Goodman Street, 271-8990.
? Sinbad’s: If you have a strong craving for Mediterranean food or just simply love the taste of hummus, try Sinbad’s. It is located in the heart of Park Avenue ? the swanky part of town. Try out their spinach pie or their tasty falafel. 719 Park Avenue, 473-5655.
? Tokyo: This is another sushi place that has students coming back for more. It is on the way to Marketplace Mall, which makes it closer to River Campus. The atmosphere of the area is subtle but welcoming. You can choose between the standard seating or reserve a traditional Japanese dining room that offers privacy with delicious delights. 2930 W. Henrietta Road, 424-4166.
? Hogan’s Hideaway: This American bistro restaurant is known for its interesting decoration and student-friendly prices. Furthermore, Hogan’s has a selection of vegetarian dishes and a number of specials every week. The people in charge of it succeeded at creating an eccentric yet homey atmosphere for diners in this unusual space.197 Park Avenue, 442-4293.
? Aladdin’s: Aladdin’s, located on Monroe Avenue, serves the best Greek and Mediterranean food in the Rochester Area. This restaurant offers patio and indoor seating and offers friendly service. The food is served in large portions.646 Monroe Avenue, 442-5000.
Coffee shops:
? Java’s: Being one of the poshest spots to have coffee this side of the state, Java’s is a center for students and anyone who wants a sip of great tasting coffee. Located on next to the Eastman Theatre its perfect for a post-concert sip. 16 Gibbs Street, 232-5282.
? Spot: Located on East Avenue, this coffee shop is the hippest place to be for an extra dose of caffeine or just a place to study. Spot is the biggest coffee shop in Rochester, with two floors and different sections. Spot also offers a wide range of desserts for anyone with a sweet tooth. 200 East Avenue, 232-7768.
? Spin: Caffeine is catered in all kinds of drinks in this trendy coffee shop. The decoration was modeled after the tea cup rides at Walt Disney World. Although Spin is a pricey place for a coffee shop, you are guaranteed to get a good cup of coffee. They also sell coffee merchandise. 739 Park Avenue, 506-9550.
? Little Caf: This is the Little Theatre’s cafe ? a movie theater that showcases the best of the independent movies to Rochester audiences. Therefore, you can expect its art-house feel to it. The Little Caf is also known for great prices. 240 East Avenue, 258-0444.
? MoonBeans: With abstract art all over the shop and dark lighting, MoonBeans is yet another artsy center. However, unlike other coffee shops, this one is also a bar that serves alcoholic beverages. The place is also known for its live music. 696 University Avenue, 244-5370.
Clubs:
? Tapas 177 Lounge: Tapas is an eclectic two-story lounge that offers free salsa dancing lessons on Thursdays, DJs on Fridays and salsa bands on Saturdays. Also an upscale restaurant, the classy decor, elegant European food and warm service at Tapas makes it more than just a clubbing venue. The bars serve more than 20 martinis, many are Tapas originals.177 St. Paul Street, 262-2090.Home page: www.tapas177.com
? GQ: This gay club is fully equipped with poles, platforms and a shower room for anyone willing to be adventurous. DJ Lenn spins your favorite remixes or recent pop hits on Saturday nights. GQ turns fabulous on Thursday and Sunday nights when the club includes a drag show. There are also periodic Boy-of-the-Week contests where the most flesh wins.444 Central Avenue, 234-4807.Home page: www.gqclub.com
? Tonic: Here’s a club that caters to the yuppie crowd, so it can be dull at times and is mostly full of young professionals. Another major drawback is that the club is 21 and over only. The club itself is well-designed, posh and overlooks the very trendy East Avenue. Another positive aspect of the club is that there is an outdoors portion. This is especially enjoyable because fresh air is necessary to cool down after heating things up on the dance floor all night. 123 Liberty Pole Way, 325-7720.
? Tilt: The newly opened club is definitely a great place to dance, with a large dance floor and one of the best sound systems in Rochester. The crowd is predominantly gay on Thursdays and Saturdays but is evenly mixed on Fridays which are College Night. The Tilt-a-Whirl Drag shows on Thursday and the monthly Pump parties are both large draws.336 East Avenue, 454-4444. Home page: www.tiltclub.com
