20 August 2008
Best Place for NAU Students’ First Dates
Posted by hottie under: Bistro; Cocktails; Italian; Mexican; Thai; Vegetarian .
We were asked what is the best place for NAU students to go on a first date. Our two qualifications were that it should be somewhere that is walkable in case students don’t have a car and that there must be cocktails available to settle nerves if one is so inclined.
Here is a list of our best bets:
Oregano’s - Oh, that Oregano’s keeps showing up in our lists again and again. Here’s why: it’s a fun atmosphere, there is a menu that everyone can like, they do have cocktails that are good and pretty cheap, and they are located right near campus. Since there is almost always a wait for a table, there is time for a good get-to-know-you session beforehand.
Picazzo’s - Picazzo’s has a comfortable atmosphere plus patio seating and a full bar for a pre- or after dinner cocktail. Ladies who feel shy about eating a monstrous meal on a first date can get a nice but filling salad as their entree. It’s a short walk from campus.
Buster’s - The venerable, but sometimes overlooked Buster’s is a fine choice. Buster’s has a fine dining feel, but prices are reasonable. There is a full, separate bar for catching a game after your meal. Again, located close to campus (near Target) plus a walk home past the cemetery means hold your date tight, guys!
Cafe Ole - Located on South San Francisco Street, a bit outside the campus gates. Cafe Ole has good Mexican food, a new full liquor license and a soothing atmosphere. It’s dimly lit and cozy with a charming little patio in the back.
Pesto Bros. - Pesto Bros. (at Old Town Shops in downtown, easily walkable) features a patio overlooking Heritage Square, where there is always something going on. If you sit inside, the lighting is nicely done and romantic. The food is great and the wine list extensive. Buy a sweet for your sweet at Brookside candy shop next door for dessert. One warning though for the insecure: the waiters in this establishment tend to be awfully good looking.
Mountain Oasis - On the opposite side of Heritage Square is this gem of a restaurant. Oasis always features a lovely menu. If you are not sure if your date is a vegetarian or not, this would be a good spot as they offer a range of entrees. Tasty, comfy and cute.
Swaddee Thai, or Pato Thai, or Dara Thai - All are good choices, all are walkable and all serve cocktails. Dara Thai is the most creative cocktail wise, in case you need to know. Good options for vegetarians or otherwise. All are comfortable. Dara is more lively, Swaddee and Pato are more intimate. Pato is the coziest. Take your pick and set your mood.
One Comment so far...
psquared Says:
28 August 2008 at 5:51 pm.
What about Campus Coffee Bean?…granted, not a lot of options for a full meal, but great place for a cafe latte, indi music and a conversation about the meaning of life…