Do you really need to make your restaurant reservations now? Graduation is a time to celebrate and a celebration requires a nice meal and a nice meal needs a reserved spot! Soooo…YES! UF holds graduation ceremonies three times per year. Spring graduation features the largest ceremony, one that includes both a university-wide ceremony at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium and individual college ceremonies, as well.

Fall 2020 graduation is currently scheduled for December 18th and 19th. Hopefully, you have already read our hotel blog and made your hotel reservations. But if you are coming up with your entire family, you may want to reserve your favorite restaurant as well. Many of the restaurants get extremely busy, both for fall and, even more so, for spring. Summer graduation is typically smaller in size.

To help you out, we are listing the restaurants that take reservations and noting if they require a deposit to hold the reservation. Obviously, this is not a list of all possible places, but these are some of our favorites. For other restaurant recommendations, see our blogs on restaurants for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. We continually add to this list as we discover more restaurants and obtain updated information. But our original suggestion holds: make your plans EARLY, especially for the Fall and Spring graduation weekends. Early plans translate to a smooth and happy graduation celebration.

Reservations and Restaurants for Graduation

• Amelia’s Restaurant – Taking reservations. The restaurant calls a week before to get credit card info to confirm the reservation.
• Antonio’s Italian Restaurant – Located a little further out in Micanopy in a quaint house but well worth the drive. Taking reservations.
• Bahama Breeze – Taking reservations.
• Dragonfly – Taking reservations.
• Embers – Start taking reservations on March 1st for Spring graduation. Leave credit card info in case of cancellation/no show.
• Gators Dockside – Taking reservations.
• Harry’s – Not taking reservations but takes call ahead.
• Liquid Ginger – Taking reservations for up to parties of 40 people.
• Mark’s Prime Steak House – Taking Reservations (does not do private rooms for graduation) Will start taking reservations at the new year for Spring Graduation. Takes credit cards to hold any reservations.
• OAK (Original American Kitchen) – Taking reservations.
• Paramount – Taking reservations.
• P.F. Changs – They will take reservations for up to 3 months out. For parties of 7 or more, call 352-570-7785.
• The Social at Midtown – Not taking reservations but will take calls ahead.
• The Warehouse Restaurant and Lounge – Taking reservations.

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A Guide to Meal Plans

With college right around the corner, I see you fearfully envisioning your student’s diet as one of  burgers and pizza and fries, oh my! Yes, we’ve been making meals for our kids for as long as we can remember. (So, quite frankly, we might welcome a break.) And yes, some of our kids have learned how to cook or even to enjoy doing so. But most have come to rely on their meal being ready the minute you — or their stomach — yells “Dinnertime!” NOW what will happen?

Before you get ready to go on a cooking, packaging, and labeling frenzy to send food with them, just STOP. I’m  here to assure you that college food has indeed changed since many of us went to college. That’s not to say they won’t still be tempted by the same fast foods that were our staples. And for many, there will still be those late-night temptations of deliveries and snack runs. We’ve all heard about (or experienced) the Freshman 15 for a reason. But today’s college campuses, in addition to offering those burgers, pizza and fries, also offer quite an array of healthy meal plans and options.

Freshman Ease

For incoming freshmen, it’s really quite easy to sign up for the meal plan. Access to do so is often facilitated during Preview. My daughter started Summer B and was living on campus, immediately chose to sign up for a plan, and was happy with her choice. It was a great way to meet other freshmen and learn to make healthy choices. Her meal plan allowed for her to have a Declining Balance card that gave her other meal options outside of the dining halls. And she could still indulge herself. Occasionally.

Pick a Plan

The Open-Access Meal Plan can be purchased for either 5-day or 7-day access and gives your student the ability to eat at any one of the Gator Dining locations. These Open-Access plans offer unlimited meals at both dining halls per allotted (5 or 7) days of access. They also include a daily cash-exchange swipe at any of the dining locations around campus. Or you can choose to purchase a basic 10 meal/week plan.

Each of these plans also comes with a specified dollar amount of Flex Bucks (determined by the meal plan purchased). These Flex Bucks allow your student to eat at any of the other restaurants on campus including Chick-fil-A, Wing Zone, Starbucks, Panda Express, and Croutons. They can also use the Flex Bucks at on-campus convenience stores. Be aware that if you commit to the Meal Plan, you are committing for TWO semesters.

Another option is the Declining Balance. This choice works like a debit card and is tied into your student’s Gator 1 ID card. It is, perhaps, the most flexible account for dining. You can deposit funds at any time; it’s accepted at all Gator Dining locations; there is no minimum balance to maintain. The balance even carries forward until you graduate or leave school. Additionally, if you have purchased a plan with Flex Bucks and they need replenishing, you can add Declining Balance at any time throughout the semester.

Kits, Plans, and FLEX-ability

Available strictly for commuter students (which my daughter became as she moved off-campus her second year), Gator Dining has recently added Commuter Meal Plans. These plans include a 65 Block plan (65 dining hall meals per semester and $25 Flex Bucks, a 35 Block plan (35 dining hall meals per semester and $300 Flex Bucks) and a 30 Block and Home Chef meal plan. This third plan includes 30 dining hall meals per semester, $180 Flex Bucks, and $120 in Home Chef Meal Kits (12 meals).

As with all the other meal plans, Flex Bucks can be reloaded as Declining Balance at any time. But you do need to spend the original amount of your Flex Bucks by the end of Spring Semester or they expire. The word on campus sidewalks says to go to the POD market and buy a stash of snacks that will last longer than your expiring Flex Bucks.

Ask Your FAQs

Make your choice after an honest conversation between you and your student. We recommend you familiarize yourself with how each program works.  Go to gator dining to learn more. Be sure to read the Frequently Asked Questions section. Pay attention to the deadlines for changing your meal plan. For example, after the grace period, you can upgrade a meal plan but may NOT downgrade a meal plan. A similar grace period is provided during the Fall and Spring semesters during which you can transfer the prorated values of your Residential Meal Plan to Flex Bucks.

Please Note!

If you have chosen a payment plan, the payments continue until the 8th and final payment is made to fulfill the 2-semester commitment. There is a grace period during both semesters where you may transfer the prorated value of your meal plan to Flex Bucks. After the grace period, you can still upgrade your Meal Plan, but you cannot downgrade. Only the participant may use the allotted meals.  A student can, however, bring a guest to the dining hall, and pay for their meal with Flex Bucks.

If your student joins a fraternity or sorority, Gator Dining will refund a prorated cost of the Meal Plan or Declining Balance Account with certain restrictions. Check it out here.

How to Choose?

Your choice is a personal decision that should reflect both your student’s preferences as well as needs. Because my daughter had dietary restrictions and requirements, it was easier for her to acclimate by having a plan that allowed her unlimited access no matter where she was on campus or what time it was. The same might be true if your son is known for his bottomless pit of a stomach. For many, the flexibility and longevity of a Declining Balance account is the best choice. They will still be able to join their friends in the dining halls when they want while having greater flexibility in on and off-campus meal choices otherwise.

For the hours of each dining facility on campus, click here. Please note that dining location hours are subject to change due to school holidays and exam schedules.

More Options

If your student is adamantly opposed to signing up for a meal plan, we still suggest using a Declining Balance card. This makes it a lot easier for them to grab something quick when on campus. For their big-picture meal planning, they can head to any of the grocery stores by bus or car to purchase the food they need or want (see our blog on grocery stores). Or they can choose from among the many restaurants around town.

If cooking on their own works best for your student, most dorms have room for a small refrigerator. Most also allow for microwaves (under 1500 watts). Many of the dorms have a communal kitchen, but your student will have to bring their own pots and pans. (These usually have to be stored within their dorm room).

Keeping with Tradition

Or perhaps you can persuade them to try making Krishna Lunch one of their healthier and more cost-effective meal staples. Not only will they be in the company of many al fresco-dining Gators on the Plaza of the Americas, but they’ll be enjoying an enduring UF tradition.

Does your student keep Kosher? The Chabad Jewish Student & Community Center has Cafe Chabad and They also have a Jewish Gator Semester Kosher Dining Meal Plan. Or check out Hillel who has partnered with Gili’s Kitchen to offer delicious Shabbat, holiday, special events, and meals on select days.  To see future days, follow the UF Hillel Facebook page. They also are a Kosher meat supplier and have expanded their Butchery Department.

A Different Type of University Meal Plan

There is a whole new type of meal service that is becoming popular with students who haven’t cooked before and don’t want to buy groceries but still want healthy meals and mom-style instruction.  I bet you’ve already been introduced to this meal kit industry at home. The premise is that the company provides pre-portioned, packaged meals that are delivered weekly to your student’s door. Check out our blog on A College Student’s Guide to Meal Kits. You’ll hear from our interns, who ate well while testing many of the meal kits.

Of course, you can always end up sending them some of your home-cooked meals. But take your well-earned break first. Let them work up a taste for home!

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The best part of lunch is the break it gives you in the middle of the day! But it’s even better when you’re enjoying the meal as well. Like any college town or city, there are literally hundreds of dining options in Gainesville from fast food to fast-casual, from family-style to fine dining. The more time my daughter spends there, the more places to eat we have discovered. (Food is a big draw for us, can you tell?)

Some are old favorites from when her sister was a Gator undergrad. Some are happy new finds that have quickly become habit-forming.  No matter which direction your taste buds or price preferences are pointing, you will find your share of burgers, pizza, Mexican, Asian, barbecue, sushi, salads, and Mediterranean cuisine. And more! Of course, if you are in a hurry, Croutons and Pollo Tropical can both be found in the Reitz Union, and no one will go hungry.

A UF Lunch Tradition

On-campus, and nearly as convenient as the Union, is one of UF’s hallmark lunch experiences. You would think because it has a regular space in my daughter’s midday meal rotation, she would want anything but that when I come to visit…and to foot the bill. It is, however, almost always our first meal together when I’m there on a weekday. You’ll find Krishna lunch at the corner of Krishna Lunch Lane and Newell Drive on the Plaza of the Americas. On a sunny day, there’s no more festive al fresco dining – which also happens to be vegetarian even though we’re not – than the sights, the musical sounds, and the spice of Thai Curry or the like. And there’s nary a pinch to your pocketbook, leaving funds for more lunch fun…or a fancy dinner.

Your lunch choices will often depend upon whether you are touring with a prospective student or making a visit to your established Gator, who will undoubtedly be clamoring for a good meal. Some things to consider beforehand are price and time. HaveUHeard that it is not unusual for there to be a considerable wait at some of the more popular lunch spots – even with a reservation – during a game weekend, official tour dates, or graduation? Many of the restaurants on our breakfast, brunch and dinner blogs also serve lunch, so be sure to check them out as you refine your lunch plans.

Near Campus — Walking

Bento Asian Kitchen & Sushi — Now with 3 locations in Gainesville, the newest location is in the base of The Standard at Gainesville Apartments right across from the University of Florida campus. Additional locations are on Archer Rd and Newberry Road. Students can pick between a rice or noodle bowl or a box that includes salad, string beans, and rice. They also have a sushi menu and build your own poke bowl.

Chipotle – There are 3 locations in Gainesville: 13th Street, University Drive, and Archer Road. Choose from burritos, bowls, tacos and salads with your choice of meat or sofritas (for vegans or if you just prefer a meat alternative), rice, beans, salsa, guac and more.

Dick Mondell’s Burgers and Fries — 412 SW 4th Ave in Gainesville. Its name says it all, but the burger selection does include chicken, veggie, and “Impossible” burgers. Save time and room for the Housemade Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches.

Felipe’s – Located on University Ave, they specialize in made to order Mexican food.

Impulse Nutrition — Located on SE 2nd Avenue Downtown, this smoothie and juice place is popular after workouts or for those looking for a great protein shake as their midday meal.

Just Salad — Gainesville’s newest salad place; many who live in New York are familiar with this concept. From their healthy salads, wraps, and bowls to their avocado toast, chicken noodle soup and smoothies, they aim to serve affordable healthy food with their 10 items under $10.

Nekter — Located in Midtown on W. University. A juice bar with all the juice, smoothie, and fusion fixin’s. Also serving acai bowls and featuring Skoop, their spin on a frozen treat.

Mi Apa – Located off of Archer, they specialize in Cuban sandwiches, arepas, and other authentic Cuban cuisines. Check their website for daily specials and reward programs.

Pop-a-Top General Store — Two locations: one on Depot Avenue and one on University Drive. This is a corner store that meets restaurant meets downtown deli, specializing in freshly made grab-n-go sandwiches, salads, baked goods and more. It also serves specialty soda, craft beer, liquor, wine, etc.

Sababa — Located near downtown. Small, counter-serve Israeli cafe with a patio & kosher favorites like falafel & shakshuka.

SubLIME Tacos — Located at 317 SW 4th Ave (Downtown), here is another version of a build-your-meal Mexican restaurant, this one Baja-style. You can choose your own protein (including shrimp and barbacoa), or opt for seasonal veggies if you’re vegan or vegetarian. It’s a great and tasty way to get your lunch greens on.

SweetBerries – Located on NW 13th Street just west of University, they are known for their frozen custards with many tasty toppings. Even though they are known for their Concrete – their frozen custard with mix-ins of choice served upside down (thus the reason it is called concrete) – they also offer healthy deli sandwiches (tempeh can be substituted for any meat) and salads.

ReFresh – located in Midtown on West University Drive. They are known for their healthy menu including Acai bowls, Smoothies, Cold Pressed Juices and Shots, Wraps, Salads, and Bagels.

Taziki’s Mediterranean Café — Located in Butler Plaza off Archer, this is a healthy favorite among students, featuring daily specials and traditional Greek fare including soups, salads, and gyros with fish, seafood, lamb, poultry and vegetarian options.

Near Campus — Driving

Big Island Bowls — Located on NW 8th Avenue, they serve up smoothies, acai bowls, poke bowls and Buddha bowls.

City Slice – Located at 3117 SW 34th St and offering “Big Slice, Small Price” pizza pleasure. They also offer daily lunch specials and an assortment of Italian dishes.

Dave’s New York Deli — Great place for matzoh ball soup in Gainesville, it’s located in Tioga Town Center, which is a bit of a drive from campus. Known for its authentic NY Pastrami and Corned Beef.

4 Rivers — Counter-serve joint featuring Texas-style BBQ, homestyle sides & sweet treats. Burnt ends or brisket, you’ll always find the Peace, Love, & BBQ they tout. Located on Archer Road.

Maple Street Biscuit Company – Located in Butler Plaza off Archer. Offering “Comfort Food with a Modern Twist,” you’ve never had biscuits quite like this. Our family favorite is the Squawking Goat, but even our biscuit-averse family member hasn’t found a menu item he doesn’t like here. The restaurant stops serving at 2 pm, so this is an early-to-lunch place. They are closed on Sundays.

MidiCi Italian Kitchen – Located at Celebration Pointe, they feature Neapolitan wood-fired pizza and authentic pasta, all made with fresh, natural ingredients.

Red Rice Kitchen – Located just off Archer, this small but sweet Asian Fusion restaurant offers everything from soup (pho) to nuts (peanut sauce), and everything sticky rice and spicy in between.

Zoe’s Kitchen — Located on Archer Road, they serve a traditional Mediterranean menu in a fast service fashion. The menu includes baked feta, varied hummus flavors, various salads including Greek and Mediterranean, sandwiches and pita, Piadina, kabobs, and bowls.

On-Campus

Au Bon Pain — Newell Hall

Camellia Court Café – Lunch on the lower level at the Harn Museum

Chick-fil-A – Various campus locations

Jamba Juice — Turlington Plaza

Moes – Located at the Racquet Club Dining Center

POD Market, KFC and Boar’s Head sandwiches — Little Hall

Starbucks — Various campus locations

And in the Reitz Union

Arredondo Café – Buffet dining with a view of the campus skyline

Croutons – Customizable salad creations

Panda Express

Papa John’s

Pollo Tropical

Shake Smart – also featuring organic acai bowls

Starbucks

Subway

Wendy’s

Wing Zone at the Orange and Brew – Ground level wings, tenders, and burgers goodness

If you are also scoping out places for your students to eat even when you’re not ‘lunching’ with them (because we all know they’re not cooking three meals a day) you should have them check out the Pocket Points app. Each time students turn off their phones in class they accrue points for food discounts and deals at many restaurants around town. How smart is that?!

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Most college kids sleep late. It’s a well-known fact. So going out for breakfast, particularly on weekends, may not be an option. Brunch, however, is generally a great option on weekends, with quite a few enticing choices not far from UF’s campus. If you are one of those rare parents with both a fondness for breakfast and a student who is an early riser (or perhaps is still up), then check out our blog Wakey, Wakey Eggs & Bakey.  If you’re more in line with the rest of us, then start by considering your price and time parameters as you contemplate where to brunch from our list below. And be aware that it is not unusual for there to be a considerable wait, even with a reservation, at some of the more popular selections on a game or graduation weekend.

So many choices…

Afternoon – Located at 231 NW 10th Ave, this is a small, casual, order-at-the-counter restaurant.  Brunch offerings include classic breakfast items, breakfast sandwiches, salads, and even a Dutch Baby! But it’s a small place, so parties larger than 6 are difficult to accommodate.

Alpin Beer & Wine Bistro – Downtown. Brunch is usually paused during the summer, but check them out from August 1st through about the end of May. This French-influenced bistro serves brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 11 am – 3 pm.

Boca Fiesta – Downtown. Serving brunch on Sunday from 11 am – 4 pm, this Mexican establishment’s brunch features breakfast fare with a Mexican flair, a bloody mary bar, and mimosas.

Bonefish Grill – 0ff Archer. Brunch served on Saturday with $10 bottomless drinks.

Daily Green – Downtown. Vegetarian & Vegan, Organic & Health Food Restaurant with Smoothie & Juice Bar. Vegetarian egg dishes, bottomless mimosas, avocado toast and more.

Daybreak Pleasant Street – Near Downtown. Simple, compact cafe offering locally sourced quality ingredients and from-scratch cooking.

Dolce Vita Bakery Cafe – Located at 4908 NW 34th Blvd. Although the menu is limited, the sweets are abundant and fresh, baked in-house daily. Open Tuesday – Friday, 7am – 5pm; Saturday, 7:30am – 5pm.

East End Eatery – Located at 1202 NE 8th Avenue, brunch runs from 9:30 am to 3:00 pm every Sunday. Specials change daily and include dishes like Eggs Satchmo and Grilled Peach Salad. Also open for All-Day Breakfast and Lunch, Monday – Friday.

Emilianos – Downtown. Latin fusion flavors plus fresh mojitos and martinis. Think rancheros, benedict Cubano, chorizo breakfast burrito and more. (Saturday and Sunday) Open for lunch and dinner too.

Haile Village Bistro – Haile Village is a great place to walk around; you can check out their farmer’s market on Saturdays (end of October to the end of June). Enjoy brunch every Saturday and Sunday.

Keke’s Breakfast Cafe – 4062 Plaza Blvd, off Archer. Breakfast served daily from 7 am – 2:30 pm, so that counts as brunch, right? This hometown-style diner chain runs the menu gamut from poached eggs and waffles to paninis and salads.

Oak– Downtown. An acronym for Original American Kitchen, they serve Southern comfort food including shrimp & grits, country fried steak, and country gravy biscuits. The brunch menu also includes eggs, burgers, steak, waffles, and salad.

One Love Cafe –  Located in Magnolia Parke on 39th Avenue, they serve brunch on Saturdays from 11 – 3 and Sundays from 11 -2 (beer and wine). This is a fun, family-friendly hang-out featuring local ingredients, made-from-scratch tastiness and the lovely ambience of live music.

Paramount Grill – Downtown. This is one of the more upscale restaurants in the area, with reservations definitely recommended.  Homemade offerings are perfect for avowed foodies. Brunch available on Sunday.

The Top – Downtown. There is typically a minimum 45-minute wait on weekends to get into this hip spot known for its vegetarian and vegan options and modern take on American food. A must-try when you head to Gainesville, with brunch served on Sundays.

Vine Sourdough Bakery – Downtown. Fresh, organic handmade bread, pastries, coffee, and pasta.  Also, look for their bread at other area businesses and farms who partner with them to share the sourdough baked goodness.

World of Beer – Located off 34th Street & Archer. Their Beerunch includes breakfast items, donut bits, avocado toast, and their bottomless boozy brunch (mimosas, beermosas or bloody marys). Cheers!

While one might think Gainesville isn’t the place to go for great food, your thinking would miss the mark. There is plenty of good brunching to choose from, whether you are looking for a quick breakfast-style meal before you rush off to tailgate or a leisurely, gourmet brunch so you can spend some quality time with your hard-working student.

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Calling all Gator chefs de college cuisine! Here’s where to find your grocery stores.

Those of you from Florida — or any of the Southeastern states, actually — will be familiar with the major supermarket chain, Publix. Publix is a Lakeland, Florida-based supermarket featuring every department found in most grocery stores. You’ll find fresh produce, a deli and a bakery, fresh meat and seafood, canned goods, dairy and frozen foods, soda, beer and wine, flowers and stationery, candy and more. Their Pub Subs are the uncontested taste of home for Floridians, both native and UF-adopted!

Conveniently, Publix has recently opened a smaller location directly across from the north side of the UF campus, featuring prepared foods that include more than just those famous subs. Your student can satisfy their craving for bento bowls, sushi, Florida-produced grocery items, and Starbucks coffee, all in one place. This location hopes to augment students’ near-campus take-out and dining-out options.

There are three other larger Publix locations that UF students typically frequent, including a store on University and SW 34th street (just outside the northeast corner of the campus) and two more in the Butler Plaza Area. The larger location in Butler Plaza West on Archer also features an adjacent Publix Liquor store, and the smaller location in the Butler Plaza’s Esplanade is known for its enviable wine selection.

More Links in the Grocery Chain

Other major chain supermarkets available to your student shopper include Trader Joe’s, The Fresh Market, Whole Foods, and Aldi. Trader Joe’s enjoys a (well-deserved) devoted following, and I don’t know a UF student who isn’t happy to be able to shop at their convenient location in the same Butler Plaza area mentioned above — easy access, easy parking, easy on the wallet.  Fresh Market is a bit further away, but definitely worth the drive or Uber ride on Tuesdays, when they have their weekly fresh meat market specials. And IMO, their olive bar is the best around.

Whole Foods has also opened at the renovated Butler Plaza on Archer Road. In addition to its fresh produce, seafood, meat department, and prepared food section, it also has a create-your-own acai bowl bar, a pasta bar, and a hot food station. Their lounge area seats up to 100 people and sells beer. And for those who have Amazon prime accounts (remember the student discount for Amazon prime!), discounts include 10 percent off sale items along with exclusive deals. To get these discounts at Whole Foods, download the Whole Foods app and sign on with your Amazon prime log-in info. You can then show your app discount to the cashier or give the phone number associated with your Prime membership.

Another recent addition to the Gainesville community is Aldi. Aldi is known for being very reasonably priced while selling their own brands and offering them in smaller quantities. Students can bring their own bag or buy one of their reusable bags…and don’t forget a quarter to rent the shopping cart. Sustainability brings increased affordability, too! The fresh produce at Aldi is exceptionally well-priced, and they have a marvelous cheese selection. You’ll also want to check seasonal specials there. Aldi is where we can find our favorite red pepper jelly during the winter holidays. There are two locations in Gainesville – one at Butler Plaza next to Lowe’s  and one on NW 13th Street.

Alternative Grocery Fun

Two other food stores worth checking out are known for being organic and food-to-table type  markets. One is called Ward’s and the other is called Earth Origins. Ward’s, about three miles northeast of the UF campus, is a family-owned, local grocery store that relies heavily on local vendors. My daughter was first introduced to this affordable local treasure by her friend, a Gainesville native, who religiously buys his freshly roasted coffee beans here. Along with the coffee and groceries, they also shop their extensive bulk foods offering, inexpensive live herbs, and vast selection of wine and beer — all at college-kid affordable prices.

Earth Origins Market is a bit further away, near The Oaks Mall. They like to call themselves the “green neighborhood market,’ and accommodate various diets and lifestyles including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, paleo, keto, and more. Visit their website to find out how to save 10% on your grocery purchases there.

Ethnic stores are another great grocery resource. Look for them tucked into various corners around campus or in the local community. A few favorites include Eastern Market, India Bazaar, La Aurora Latin Market, and (a personal favorite) Chun Ching Market. And nearly every day, there’s a farmer’s market somewhere in town. With a short Uber ride, your student can enjoy a happy excursion that will also fill their fridge.

Get the App

Can’t make it to the grocery store? Shipt will deliver groceries right to your student (for a fee, of course). There is also Instacart, which delivers from Publix, Whole Foods, Costco, CVS and more. And don’t forget about Seamless,  which is super easy way to order food, including groceries, and you can cash in on their Perks.

Have your students download the apps for any of the grocery stores that offer them. Publix also has digital coupons. Taking a bit of time to check off applicable coupons may save them (and possibly you) some money. Publix also sells a two-part gift card that you can load directly from your local Publix onto your student’s gift card. It’s a helpful option if your student usually shops for their groceries at Publix.

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As with other college campuses, the amount of burger, pizza, and fast-food restaurants at and surrounding the UF campus is a big reason for the Freshman 15. This is no surprise considering so many students live on a tight budget. But today’s college students are definitely into eating healthy, and they seek higher quality foods that are both varied in taste and economically priced.

Granted, sometimes nothing can take the place of a cheesy, greasy slice of pizza or a juicy hamburger. Comfort food is just that, after all. But for those students that want more of their food fast but healthy, UF students have many options. There are also several apps that many students can download to find the latest promotions and deals at some of their favorite places. (These apps include Hooked and Pocket Points. And don’t forget to try Seamless — whose very likeable motto: “Whatever you’re in the mood for, wherever you’re in the mood for it, you’ve got it,” also comes with Perks to cash in on.)

UF Students’ Favorite Healthy Eats:

• Bento Asian Kitchen & Sushi – Now with 3 locations in Gainesville, the newest location is on the ground floor of The Standard at Gainesville Apartments, right across from the University of Florida campus. It’s ideal for a quick, fresh-to-order lunch or dinner. Students can pick between a rice or noodle bowl or a box that includes salad, string beans, and rice. They also have a sushi menu and a build-your-own poke bowl. Additional locations are on Archer Rd and Newberry Road.
• Big Island Bowls – NW 8th Avenue, they serve up smoothies, acai bowls, poke bowls, and Buddha bowls.
• Bolay  – 2905 SW 42nd St. off Archer, this concept is similar to Chipotle in that you build your own bowl using freshly prepared gluten-free ingredients. Choose from small, large, or kids bowls adding a base, veggies, protein, and add-ons topped with different sauces. Great for vegetarians, vegans, healthy eaters.
• SubLIME Tacos – 317 SW 4th Ave (Downtown), here is another version of a build-your-meal Mexican restaurant, this one Baja-style. You can choose your own protein (including shrimp and barbacoa), or opt for seasonal veggies if you’re vegan or vegetarian. It’s a great and tasty way to get your greens on.
• Daily Green – Located near downtown, this establishment offers organic and locally sourced foods for everyone including vegans and vegetarians. Their original waffle cones come filled with your choice of tempeh, or you can opt for the famous tarragon yogurt chicken salad. Soups, salads, sandwiches, lentil burgers, and smoothies round out the healthy menu.
• Impulse Nutrition – Located on SE 2nd Avenue downtown, this smoothie and juice place is popular after workouts or for those looking for a great protein shake.
• Just Salad – While this is Gainesville’s newest salad place, many who live in New York are familiar with this concept. From their healthy salads, wraps, and bowls to their avocado toast, chicken noodle soup, and smoothies, they aim to serve affordable healthy food with their 10 items under $10.
• McAlister’s Deli – Located off Archer Rd, they serve salads, sandwiches, soup, and — of course — their famous deli and spuds.
• Nekter Juice Bar – Just off the northeast corner of campus on University, Nekter serves up “Energizing Elixirs,” smoothies, acai bowls, and even Detox Cleanses. Make your own blend, grab, and go, and you do healthy you.
• ReFresh Food Co. – Formerly Three Natives, it is located in Midtown on West University Drive, they are known for their healthy menu including Acai bowls, Smoothies, Cold Pressed Juices and Shots, Wraps, Salads and Bagels.

Still More Favorites:

• Sababa – Located near downtown, this small, counter-serve Israeli cafe with a patio serves kosher favorites like falafel & shakshuka.
• Shake Smart – Started by two college students looking to make healthy eating more accessible to the college on-the-go lifestyle. UF has two locations; one in the Reitz Union and one at SW Student Rec. The menu consists of the obvious shakes but also acai bowls, cold brew coffee, sandwiches, oatmeal, and wraps.
• Smoothie King – 3321 SW Archer Rd Suite #20, Gainesville, FL 32608 & they deliver! Pick from 22 different blends depending on whether your goal is health, fitness, wellness, enjoyment, or a nutritious treat.
• SweetBerries – Located on NW 13th Street just west of University, they are known for their frozen custards with many tasty toppings. They are also known for their Concrete, a frozen custard with mix-ins of student’s choice, and served upside down (thus the reason it is called concrete)! On the healthier side, there are fresh deli sandwiches (tempeh can be substituted for any meat) and salads.
• Taziki’s Mediterranean Café – Located in Butler Plaza off Archer, this is a healthy favorite among students. They feature daily specials and traditional Greek fare including soups, salads, and gyros with fish, seafood, lamb, poultry, and vegetarian options.
• The Top – Located in downtown Gainesville, there is typically a minimum 45-minute wait on weekends to get into this hip spot known for its vegetarian and vegan options and modern take on American food. Make sure you start with either their corn nuggets or fried pickles. As a pescatarian, my favorite entrees are the pecan-crusted tofu, the seared scallops (usually a special), and their black bean burger.
• Vale Food Co – Vale Food Company is a healthy fast-casual restaurant that recently opened in Gainesville. They are based out of Tallahassee, having first catered to the FSU campus (we’ll overlook this). Their food model is to make healthy eating more affordable, convenient, and delicious for college students. We’re talking acai bowls, avocado toast…perfect if your student is a health nut. They plan to roll out optional meal plans in the near future.
• Whole Foods Prepared Food Section – From sushi to quiche to Chicken Vindaloo and everything in between, a stop in at this Archer-area grocery will net you the meal you crave and the healthy you need.
• Zoe’s Kitchen – Located on Archer Road, they serve a traditional Mediterranean menu in a fast service fashion. Their menu includes baked feta, varied hummus flavors, various salads (including Greek and Mediterranean), sandwiches and pita, Piadina, kabobs, and bowls.

Even at some of the fast-food restaurants (if your student can resist the temptation of those alluring fries), there are alternatives for eating healthy that include salads, grilled proteins, and veggie burgers. And, of course, you will want to encourage them to combine exercise with that healthy eating regimen. Check out the suggestions in our blog Staying Fit.

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UF and College Studying Apps

Remember when you were in college and everything you needed was easily accessible via apps on your phone? No? Well, me either. Our kids, however, do live in this world and there are apps that provide everything from food delivery to tutoring services, not to mention how to create a budget or even the perfect bibliography. Below is a list of the ones I thought most useful. Please forgive me for its length, but there is truly an app for EVERYTHING. How could I narrow it down?

UF Apps

• GatorSafe — I’m starting my list here because the first thing on my list is ALWAYS my child’s safety.  With the  GatorSafe app, students can report a problem silently via text, also attaching pictures, video and audio files if available, and even anonymously. It empowers students to prevent assaults or other incidents before they get out of hand. Its features include being able to view crime around the UF Campus, trigger Mobile BlueLight to send your location, and call UFPD. The app includes a toolbox that contains a flashlight, loud alarm, and the ability to send your location as well as transportation information and links to U Matter, We Care.
• GatorWay – The official app of New Student and Family Programs at UF. You can download guides to various events including GatorGrowl, Family Weekend, Preview, and more. Includes a campus map.
• UFMobile —  Gives students access to UF resources including campus maps, Web courses, ONE UF Mail, the library, dining, shuttle service, emergency information, and more.
• Florida Gators — This new app connects your Ticketmaster account for mobile entry. Users may also securely store their credit card in the app if they desire a cashless experience at concession stands. In addition to tickets and concessions, other in-venue benefits for fans include purchasing #SwampMoments (like video board messages), seat upgrades, and exclusive events; tracking the Florida Football games you’ve attended via the Orange and Blue Fan Journal; and reading the latest Florida Gators news, watching exclusive videos, and viewing gameday information.
• TapRide — This app is tied into SNAP and allows you to request a safe ride. It is UF’s version of Uber at night.
• TransLoc – This app provides real-time bus tracking and location of all RTS vehicles, as well as access announcements that might impact your ride. Download the free app for your device.

College Studying Apps

• AnkiMobile Flashcards — The best app for learning over-time/long-term. It utilizes an algorithm for spaced repetition so that you do not forget the information that you memorized a week prior. It is free on every device except Apple products.
• CamScanner – As its name implies, this allows you to scan docs and save it as .jpeg or PDF. It’s a great resource if you need to email or fax an important document. You can actually upload the saved document through UF Mobile and turn in your assignment. Syncs with your other devices.
• Canvas — Just like the website, students can instantly access their Canvas courses for free without having to lug around a laptop to keep up with your homework. You can see your grades, submit assignments, send and receive messages, view content, and modules, watch videos, take quizzes, and more.
• Chegg – Highly recommended. Often you can rent a book for about half the price of a bookstore rental. Students can rent, buy, and sell their books. Chegg also offers assistance with homework and gives access to tutors, at a cost.
• EasyBib by Chegg – With EasyBib Plus, students can use the plagiarism checker to find missing citations, and fix them before submitting their paper. Also, easily catch writing style and grammar errors with easy-to-understand explanations on how to improve their writing for next time. No matter what citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago etc.), EasyBib Plus will help create the right bibliography. Right now, students get a 3-day free trial of the product.
• Evernote — A free app that pushes note-taking to the next level. Students can brainstorm ideas, make to-do lists, take pictures of pages and sketches, organize everything into a notebook format, and share with others or collaborate as a group. The app even has the ability to search handwritten content, so finding your past notes is easy.
• Google Drive App — This app allows you to access any files while on the go, from presentation needs to proof of purchase. It also allows users to take a photo of a document, sign, or other text and use optical character recognition to convert to text that can be edited.
• Grammarly’s mobile keyboard is the personal editor you can take with you wherever you go. It’s considered the best plagiarism checker & proofreader.
• GroupMe – At some point in their college career, your student will have to participate in a group project, which means the fate of their grade depends on working together. While GroupMe can’t force the group slacker (should there be one) to carry their fair share, it can facilitate communication. It works like a group chat, and because you don’t have to meet up anywhere, everyone in the group saves time and money by making plans and discussing problems via their phones.
• iClicker – Participate in iClicker classroom polls and quizzes with your Apple or Android smartphone.
• iHomework 2 – If your student is really organized, then skip this app. But I know a few that could definitely benefit from it. This free app can keep track of their assignments, deadlines, and tasks, then plan them out over a certain time period.  This just might help them avoid that old cramming-at-the-last-minute stress-out.
• LitCharts – Great for English majors. (Oh, how I wish this existed when I was in school…) This free app helps reinforce comprehension and understanding of literature. Find reviews, summaries, themes, and quotes for hundreds of titles without any in-app ads. Think of it as a portable Spark Notes.
• Mathway – This app is great for college math. It guides students step-by-step to either find the solution or check your work to see if it matches up to theirs.
• Offtime – This app costs $2.99 and is worth it if your student is looking to disconnect and avoid distractions in order to focus on homework or studying. It blocks websites, apps, text messages, phone calls, and other notifications for a set period of time so you don’t get off-topic.
• OneDrive — A Microsoft app that allows students to get and share documents, photos, and other files from their Android device, computer (PC or Mac), and all Windows devices. This app allows you to open and save files in Office apps (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote).
• Quizlet – My kids started using this app in high school, but the good news is this great study tool remains super useful. Quizlet is a free study app that allows the user to take other people’s quizzes or create their own. A user can create multiple-choice, matching, true/false, and open-ended questions and use them in various ways, such as flashcards and games. Students can share their “study sets” with others in their class and even encourage a professor to create one.  Brainscape is another similar study tool, but Quizlet even has pre-made flashcards on thousands of subjects. Both are free.
• RealCalc Scientific Calculator App — Although I would never have used this, my son — an economics and business major — could have. This app means students don’t have to lug around that fancy scientific calculator because this free app allows them to complete all of their computing right from their mobile device. Keep in mind there might be limitations to its use anytime there are limits set for phone access, like during an exam.
• Slader – Provides step-by-step solutions to questions from the most popular textbooks for math, science, Spanish, history, economics and more. Free, but they also offer a pro subscription for $1.99.
• TopHat — Your professor may have chosen this format for their course, and will typically give you a class code to enter for access to the materials.
• Wolfram/Alpha — While we’re on the subject of computations, Wolfram/Alpha is actually a fancy search engine that can answer questions, perform computations, conduct analysis, and prepare reports. Your student can get help with complicated algebra and calculus equations or find chemistry, engineering, or physics formulas. This app is $2.99.

Restaurant & Entertainment Apps

• BitBite – An app developed by a Gator that touts itself as the best way to find things to do and eat near you, then rewards you via a point system.
• DoorDash – This is the same concept as UberEats. They have an easy app that guides you through your order. They have also launched Project Dash. This initiative helps tackle food waste and hunger in the local communities that they serve.
• EatStreet – Online and mobile food ordering and delivery service provider
• GCM (Gift Certificates & More) – Just enter your location into the app (“Gainesville, FL”) and it will show all of the local restaurants that participate with GCM. Many places do offer $5 off a meal or more, depending on the restaurant! Additionally, this app is not limited to restaurants — you’ll find movie theaters, clothing stores, and services such as cleaners and movers that have redeemable gift certificates.
• Groupon– This is a great app that provides discounts for various things in the area for students to do when they are not studying or going to class. Some examples of what you can find on the app include, escape rooms, shows, fitness classes, and even nightclubs for older students.
• GrubHub – Simply browse menus, pick what you want, and submit your order.  Local suggestions are great and most deliveries are around $3. It also allows you to order food (Starbucks, Chick-fil-A, etc.) on campus without waiting in line, and they run specials if you sign up for their emails.
• Fandango NOW – A streaming service offering movie rentals. Yay, study break time!
• Hooked Deals – Another Food & Drink App available in college towns including Gainesville. It works similar to GCM.
• Instacart – For faster shopping and easier checkout, get the Instacart app and have groceries, etc. delivered from most of the same places as Shipt. Their service also includes CVS and Whole Foods.
• Pocket Points – I love this app! It literally incentivizes students to keep their phones off or out of sight during class. They just open the app, lock their phone, and earn points for the time it is off. Later, they can trade the points for discounts at participating restaurants (e.g. Big Lou’s NY Style Pizzeria, Hungry Howie’s, Dominoes) as well as local and online businesses (Office Depot). There are even Two Point Tuesdays (which is great since my daughter has three classes on Tuesdays).
• Postmates – A large on-demand delivery and pickup platform, the Postmates app gives you access to delivery of anything from anywhere. Similar to Uber, Postmates couriers receive an order for your food, groceries, or whatever you need, then deliver it to your doorstep. Need another charger? Party supplies? Postmates will get it to you within the hour.
• Seamless – a Super easy way to order food for delivery or takeout, and you can cash in on their Perks, too. Their very likable motto: “Whatever you’re in the mood for, wherever you’re in the mood for it, you’ve got it.” Can there be a life app like that?
• Shipt – Get 2 weeks free and $15 off your first order on deliveries from stores like Publix, Costco, Target, and ABC Fine Wines & Spirits. Let their shoppers do what your student doesn’t have time to.
• UberEATS — So they don’t have to stop studying to go pick up dinner? Another food and drink app, UberEATS brings the food directly to them.
• Zupp (formerly Party Tutor) – My daughter uses this one often. Zupp touts itself for being just a tap away from the best events and experiences happening around campus. It’s designed to facilitate access for college students to explore local specials and deals at nearby restaurants, apartments, bars, and local businesses.
• For music, many students recommend Apple Music (offering a student discount), Spotify, and Pandora.

Money, Finances & Getting Around

• CashApp –  Similar to Venmo, it’s another mobile payment service to transfer money immediately. This app has a feature that gives $5 dollars to the person who invites a friend to use the app along with $5 dollars to the new user.
• Mint – My son is a big fan of this one. We all know that managing money while in college can be a struggle. Mint is a budgeting app that helps students keep track of their finances, as well as help them understand where they can make some budget cuts of their own. This free money manager and financial tracker app are from the makers of TurboTax.
• TransLoc – This app allows you to track RTS bus transit. It provides real-time transit tracking, arrival predictions, and proximity alerts, and can check bus times and routes.
• Venmo – I am mentioning this because I think it is so easy to use, but your students probably have it already. TBH, my kids are the ones that introduced me to it! Venmo allows students to pay each other back for anything purchased on their behalf. That includes their share of the electric bill, half the groceries, half the Uber ride…and so on.
  Come to think of it, your students should also have the Uber app (and an account) so they never get stuck walking home alone after dark. If they prefer, they can also use Lyft, which works the same way as Uber. And make sure they know and practice the safety rules for using those apps: riding in a group, trip tracking and sharing, and “What’s my name?” to note a few.
• Target – The Target (Cartwheel) app has saved me so much money. I don’t buy anything through the app, I simply click “cartwheel offers” and it shows me every coupon that is currently available. I can save as many coupons as I want to the app. When I am ready to go to the store and buy my products, I show them the app barcode and it takes all the coupons at once.
• Wag – A Dog-Walking app, think “Uber” for Dog services. Its services are affordable and the walkers are all thoroughly vetted. Upon signing up, Wag will send you a free lockbox to safely leave your key for the walkers. Wag offers dog-walking, dog-sitting, and dog boarding.

Health, Wellness & Fitness

• Headspace – Perhaps this should have been the first app I wrote about. I use this one, too, because everyone deserves a mental break. The aim of Headspace is to “make meditation accessible to everyone.” It acts like a personal trainer for meditation, taking just ten minutes a day to guide your brain toward developing meditation muscle-memory and mindfulness. They offer a free ten-day trial before enrollment in a year plan. If nothing else, the app is a daily reminder that for ten minutes a day, we all should calm down, breathe, and separate from our stresses and surroundings, while also trying to focus on a deeper level of feeling. (Note: My expansive “we” includes parents here, too, because wouldn’t the world would be a better, calmer place if we all did this?)
• MyFitnessPal – Track your diet and exercise with this app to determine optimal caloric intake and nutrients needed to achieve your fitness goals. Calorie charts, nutrition facts, exercises, and more are included, and the app uses gamification to motivate the user.
• Pillow – Here’s a free app that tracks your sleep. It works as an alarm clock and also gives you an analysis of your sleep. It can be used with Apple Watch as well as the iPhone. Could this be the way to have our students start keeping themselves accountable for how much they sleep? Just pipe dreaming here, I’d wager…
• Calm – Another great source for sleep and meditation. This app also includes music and nature scenes to aid in focus and relaxation, as well.
• Sworkit – Wow! Personalized video workouts that are easy for students to do in their dorm or apartment. They’ll have the ability to choose from pre-built workouts for specific types of exercise that include strength training, yoga, and Pilates. Sworkit offers a helpful FAQ page to get the most out of the app and students can keep track of their progress as they go.
• Wholesome –  Students can use this app to find ratings for healthy recipes they can cook on their own (depending on their living situation). App users can also obtain personalized nutrition information to help identify nutrition gaps and make suggestions for better food choices. This is a perfect app for students who are working to stay healthy and eat the right foods while away at college. (It’s also a great boon for the mother who would like to resign from talking about this till she’s blue in the face.)

It’s a wonder we ever made it through school without some of these. There are even more: fitness apps, language translators, and so on, but at the risk of overwhelming you (scroll back to Headspace if I have), I tried to keep this list pared to my favorites.

These are useful and fun, too…

• Student Beans will give them discounts for food & drink, fashion, tech and mobile, health & beauty, travel, study, and more.
• BenchPrep – GMAT, GRE and LSAT preparation
• Couch to 5k – helps you train to run a 5k. I actually used this once. It works!
• Duolingo – Great app for language-learning.
• FandangoNOW – streaming services offering movie rentals
• FindMyHeadphones — This app is AWESOME. It can find any BlueTooth device. My daughter’s roommate has linked it to her airpods, computer, iPad, and just about anything that is Bluetooth. It is truly a great app to have if you easily misplace things. (I’ll have to ask if she’s linked it to her car…)
• Fiverr – an online marketplace for freelance services. Students can find or list services to find help or work.
• Hummingbird – An affordable App started by FSU students. Put in a request for anything from housekeeping to dog-walking to hardware needs.
• Magoosh – GRE prep app, with word of the day, vocab flashcards, etc.
• ParkByApp – An app that allows you to upload a debit or credit card and pay for metered parking. It also allows you to extend your parking time from your phone without having to revisit the meter. This app is applicable in College Town metered parking and additional metered parking on campus.
• Rakuten (formerly known as Ebates) – If you like to online shop, but hate spending money then you may get hooked to this app. I use it more on my desktop, but you can make an account to get cashback on so many online stores! Simply by looking up any store, I can get notification of if I get cashback and how much. Personally, I’ve received almost $1000 back over the last few years! It is also linked with Amazon so if students purchase any textbooks or school supplies on Amazon, making this app a real money saver.
• Rover – If you need a pet sitter while you are away or at classes or you want to become a pet sitter
• Word of the Day – builds vocabulary. I’m a sucker for this one.

Happy App-ing, Y’all!

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Keeping your college kid eating while at the same time balancing their food budget is a real challenge. Through the years, I have experimented with various approaches to teaching my daughters to live on a budget. Even when they lived at home, they had their own bank accounts and never had carte blanche when it came to spending. So when it was time to leave for college, the discussion about budgeting took on a more serious tone.

Perhaps your student is actually able to stick to a budget. My daughters needed more guidance, and they both struggled at the beginning. Eventually they got it (for the most part). I admit that it was hard telling my daughter, as I watched her monthly allowance dwindle, that she had better be a bit more cautious. More than once I suggested stocking up on peanut butter or ramen noodles for the next few meals until her scheduled college allowance arrived. I knew, though, that the gift of teaching her to budget her money would be far more useful than the pain I was feeling about delivering that message. Did I feel bad knowing she occasionally had to stay back when her friends headed out for sushi? Absolutely. But “Parenting is painless,” said no parent ever.

Good News

The good news is that there are plenty of places around UF’s campus that make sticking to a budget possible. There are also a few good tricks. For instance, if your student has a meal plan, encourage them to bring back a few snacks from the dining room for later. There is nothing wrong with leaving with a banana, apple, or hardboiled egg for some quick brain food. And if their meal plan allows unlimited visits during each day, planning their treks across campus to include quick stops for a snack and drink gets them the most meal bang for that dining hall buck.

Off campus, check out Hooked, a free app that offers deals at local restaurants around Gainesville. A friend purchased the upgraded version for $3 a month and, in two months’ time, had calculated that she had saved $26.  Another popular app available in Gainesville is Tastebud.  Students can save up to 50% at participating restaurants, including Blaze Pizza, Chick-fil-A, Domino’s, Relish, Smoothy King, Pita Pit, and Burrito Famous. Students are very adept at using technology to help them save money, just encourage them to do so safely.

Have them check at some of their favorite places to see if they give any student discounts, or money off their bill if they check in on Facebook (Bento gives $1 off). Many restaurants have weekly specials that can help their food budget go farther. There are other places to eat on campus that are budget-friendly too.

They can also get a boost on budget eating with delivery services like Seamless.  Not only is it a super easy way to order food for delivery or takeout, but you can cash in on their Perks to save extra bucks.

Students’ Favorite Budget Eats

4 Rivers – Counter-serve joint featuring Texas-style BBQ, home-style sides & sweet treats. Located on Archer Road.

Bento Asian Kitchen & Sushi – Now has 3 locations in Gainesville. The newest location is in the base of The Standard at Gainesville Apartments right across from the University of Florida campus. Ideal for a quick, fresh-to-order lunch or dinner. Also located on Archer Rd and one on Newberry Road.

Blaze Pizza – Located on Archer Road,  you can create your own artisanal pizza or choose from one of their own signature pizzas. Gluten-free dough available.

California Chicken Grill – Located on SW 34th Street, choose from wraps and sandwiches, wings, salads and more. Register on their website for discounts.

Chipotle – There are 3 locations in Gainesville: 13th Street, University Drive, and Archer Road. Choose from burritos, bowls, tacos and salads with your choice of meat or sofritas (for vegans or those who want a meat alternative), rice, beans, salsa, guac and more.

Felipes – Located on University Ave, they specialize in made-to-order Mexican food while offering a flexible rewards program. You can’t go wrong at a place whose motto is “Eat. Earn. Enjoy.”

La Tienda – Located on 13th Street, this Latin favorite includes tacos, tortas, sandwiches, and homemade tamales on the weekend. Not only will you find the enchiladas, flautas, and fajitas you crave, but you can score authentic Mexican products and groceries.

Mi Apa – Located off of Archer, they specialize in Cuban sandwiches, arepas, and other old world Cuban recipes. Their premise is fast and affordable while “authentic, delicious, and made from scratch.” Check their website for daily specials and reward programs.

Zoe’s Kitchen – Located on Archer Road, Zoe’s Kitchen serves a traditional Mediterranean menu in a fast service fashion. You’ll find baked feta, various hummus flavors, salad choices that include Greek and Mediterranean, sandwiches and pitas, Piadina, kabobs, and bowls.

Word of mouth, one budget-constrained-student to another, will eventually lead your student to even more deals for eating well but cost-effectively. And learning how to pool resources can be another facet of getting the most from a collegian’s food dollar. After all is said and done, when your student can manage their income after college, they will thank you. Many figuratively, but mine did literally — Mom Moment Win!!! Even greater thanks is knowing they are eating well while sticking to a reasonable budget; that’s truly an enduring life skill.

By the way, don’t expect them to want to dine at these budget-friendly places when you visit. That’s when they will be hoping for a meal at all the restaurants they can’t afford on their college allowance.

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Remember when our kids were little and we couldn’t imagine them ever leaving us and going off to college? Now, if you’re anything like me, you can’t believe how quickly the time has passed. As time continues to rush by (because it doesn’t even wait for a mother’s heart to catch up), college graduation will be here before you know it.

I’m really not trying to shock you. But I do want to give you a head start, at least on making those hotel reservations. (I’m not sure we can help you with the guard-your-heart prep.) If you’ve been to The Swamp for a football weekend, you know just how difficult and pricey it is to nab yourself a hotel room for the weekend. Graduation weekend may even take that up a notch. People book them a year out. No joke. I literally booked my rooms a solid year before my first daughter graduated. (If you don’t know where to stay, check out our blog on Hotels.)

Expect the Unexpected

Most of the helpful information you’ll read below comes from years of experiencing both the ongoing traditions and evolving modifications of graduation at UF. But 2020 has inserted a very large “Just a Minute” wedge into all of our well-laid plans. So, as noted by UF in their official statement, more commencement details will be available as each semester progresses towards its culmination. It’s a great idea to check the UF Commencement page regularly. That way, you can keep yourself up-to-date on graduation announcements because, like life, 2020-21 continues to be full of changes. All this just goes to reinforce how important it is to stay both on your toes and well-informed so you can plan for your student’s graduation experience, no matter the plot twists. And that’s why we’re here…so glad you are, too!

Now, on to…

Reservations and More Reservations!

Be sure to check the policy of whichever hotel you choose when selecting a place to stay. If possible, book more rooms upfront and cancel any you don’t end up needing later (when Granddad decides he isn’t up to the four-plus hour drive). It is far easier to cancel an extra room reservation than to try to find a room in February for May graduation. Here’s a helpful tip for booking those multiple rooms: put each room in a different family member’s name. If you have them all in your name and you need to cancel a room, the hotel may — per policy or accidentally — cancel the entire reservation. (This actually happened to a friend of mine.) And Airbnb can be a great extended weekend and family option, too, offering you confirmed space with flexibility.

Reservations for August and December graduations may be a tad easier, but there will more students attending graduation then than you may expect. AGAIN, don’t hesitate to book early. UF lists the diploma dates, which also marks the weekend of graduation. As of today, the next graduation date is the weekend of December 18-19, 2020. Check the website for the specific day and time of your student’s commencement, as it goes by degree level and their specific college. Also, look for the list of the dates and times for each specific college. This is especially helpful for parents who have other graduations or just need to make hotel and restaurant reservations.

Remember to make restaurant reservations as well. Generally, restaurant reservations cannot be made as far in advance as hotels but, due to the crowds, you’ll definitely want to make them as soon as you can. Check out our blog for Graduation Restaurant Reservations.  Some of the restaurants allow reservations on Open Table (although not for large parties), but some also require a non-refundable deposit that will be then applied towards your bill.

Ahhh…the pomp of it all!

Graduation weekends usually begin on Fridays. In the past few years, after trying different formats, UF held University-wide commencement at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on Friday evenings with individual ceremonies held indoors at other times during the weekend.

Ask your student to make sure that they have met all of the requirements. There would be nothing worse than heading up to UF for graduation only to find out that your student has not fulfilled ALL requirements. See the checklist here. Honestly, it couldn’t hurt to encourage them to go over the checklist now if they are anticipating a graduation date any time in 2020-2021. A little extra time to find and resolve issues could buy a lot of peace of mind.

Speaking of peace of mind, what if you have two family members (siblings, cousins, married couple) graduating at the same time? Happily, UF does allow you to fill out a waiver so that one of the students can request to walk in the other’s ceremony. That way, both family members can see each other walk across the stage, and the visiting entourage doesn’t have to choose which ceremony to attend. You may request that waiver by emailing uf-commencement@ad.ufl.edu.

Handicapped/Special Needs Graduation Info

For handicapped guests and those with limited mobility, we recommend you arrive early and enter through Gate 1 at the stadium. Guests should seek the attention of an usher, wearing a yellow tee-shirt, for additional assistance and directions upon arrival. There are approximately 90 wheelchair spaces, in the south end zone, which are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Due to the limited space in this area, only one able guest is allowed to sit with the disabled guest. Additionally, there are easy-access seats available for those with mobility limitations who are unable to maneuver the steps. Motorized scooters are allowed for guests with mobility limitations.

There are handicapped parking spaces in the O’Connell Center parking lot that are made available for commencement parking. These spaces are, again, available on a first-come, first-served basis. Additionally, GatorLift will have a shuttle that runs from the commuter lot located on South Gale Lemerand Drive to the stadium. This shuttle is for guests with disabilities and operates for all four ceremonies at the stadium. The drop-off location will be at the Southeast corner of Gale Lemerand Drive and Stadium Road.

Gator Lift vehicles can accommodate ten passengers, up to two wheelchairs, and are equipped with lifts for easy access. All drivers are trained to provide boarding assistance. Passengers with disabilities receive priority seating. Temporarily disabled individuals also may ride Gator Lift. All other guests are requested to ride the school buses that provide shuttle service to and from Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Even general parking is quite difficult.  Be prepared and plan ahead by checking out commencement parking information.

Get Your Seats Here!

HaveUHeard that you will need to go through a metal detector before entering? The lines are extremely long if you have a purse or bag and, YES, the clear bag policy will be enforced. If you don’t have a purse or bag, get in that quick-entry line and go save seats for your party. Please note, however, that cell phone service is unreliable inside the stadium and limits communication. Again, have a plan.

Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis with special accommodations, as I mentioned, for those that need it. To take advantage of special accommodations, you will need to contact the ceremony venue (O’Connell Center, 352-392-5500) at least two weeks in advance. Finally, if family and friends cannot make it to the ceremony, UF airs a live webcast of graduation. I’m still able to pull up my elder daughter’s graduation ceremony from 2014.

Keep your water bottles, balloons, and wrapped gifts at your hotel or in the car as they are prohibited at graduation (as are the more obvious weapons, alcohol, and air horns). Flower bouquets are available for sale inside the O’Connell Center for $10, $20, or $30 depending on the size, but there is only a small selection. Our recommendation is to pick up flowers in advance. You may get them from Publix or any other local supermarket. We were very pleased with our purchase at The Flower Shop located at 3749 W. University Drive. You can also consider sending them ahead of time with an order from Bouqs. We love their flowers, coming from eco-friendly farms, along with the convenience of checking that off our graduation to-do list before we get to town.

Graduation Cap & Gown Are Extra

Wondering how much your student will need to pay for their cap and gown? It is required attire if they are walking. Bachelor’s (cap and gown) and Master’s (cap, gown, and hood) regalia are purchased as a bundle. A Bachelor’s bundle will cost about $45 and the Master’s is about $60. For a Doctoral Degree, you will want to rent the regalia because it is custom and not inexpensive. All doctoral candidates must wear a hood. Graduating candidates will need to first apply for graduation. Once approved, they can order their regalia online through Gator1 or by obtaining an order form from the bookstore. Payment must accompany the order.

The Extras

Of course, you are going to want some great photos of this milestone occasion. That’s why we have a blog full of suggestions along with recommended Photographers. We’ll send you off now with some great Graduation Gift suggestions including diploma and tassel frames. Diplomas are mailed to students. HaveUHeard how many get damaged when opening the package? It happens but you can order a replacement.

See you at graduation!

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Considering you will make many trips to UF to visit your student over the next four years (or more), it is well worth exploring the many great dinner restaurant options. I have my favorites, but I always aim to try a new place for dinner each time I visit.

Adam’s Rib Co – Two locations in Gainesville. Consistently considered a must-visit for dinner for all of its 10 years in Gainesville. Famous for their bbq ribs, smoked beef brisket, and smoked pork, along with sides including southern collard greens and black-eyed peas. A fine taste of the south, you will want to visit at least once when visiting Gainesville. They also serve breakfast and lunch.

Amelia’s – Downtown. Serving homemade pasta and other home-style Italian classics with sauces made from scratch.  A wide array of antipasti dishes, Italian soups, pasta, chicken, veal, fish. Full bar.

Ballyhoo Grill – This island-style restaurant with indoor and outdoor patio seating offers seafood, steaks, oysters, salads, soups, pasta and sushi, all made from scratch. Now that’s dinner! Live music inside.

Big Lou’s NY Style Pizzeria – Downtown. As the name implies, this is a NY Style Pizzeria in a very casual atmosphere. Also serving calzones and stromboli, subs and pasta dishes. Al fresco dining available to watch Gainesville life pass by.

More Dinner Options, More Good Food

Boca Fiesta – Downtown. Mexican fare with veggie options and a southern food chaser. You’ll find gourmet tacos, enchiladas, burritos, and chimichangas. Your choice of protein includes tempeh. Try their gator tacos for a twist!

Cheesecake Factory – Butler Plaza, Archer. Indoor/outdoor dining, happy hour, and everyone’s favorite “fresh-from-scratch” menu of more than 250 dishes. Not only great food, but enough choices to make it great for any size gathering. And cheesecake for dessert, of course! Open for lunch and dinner daily, brunch through dinner on the weekends.

Crane Ramen – Downtown. We stumbled onto this charming restaurant during a busy football weekend. As its name would imply, they serve ramen, but they take it to a completely new level. With the motto –“We like BIG POTS! ” — you’ll be hooked  by this authentic Japanese craft ramen. Only 12 items on the menu, but all served in authentic homemade broths. They like to be known for serving slow-food fast, and even throw in specials that are not on the menu.

Dragonfly Sushi – Downtown. High-quality sushi and other Japanese specialties prepared tapas-style. They’re known for a contemporary take on traditional rolls and other specialties.

Embers Wood Grill – 34th Street. Upscale dining, known for its prime steaks prepared over a wood grill. Try their Prime Filet Mignon flatbread, crispy Florida Gator tail — you ARE in Gator territory — and various seafood and vegetarian options. It’s a great place to celebrate graduation, birthdays, and all special occasions. Try their sister restaurant, Spark, located next door, for a Gastro menu and beer, wine and champagne.

Have you tried any of these restaurants yet?

Grub Food & Drink – A relatively new addition to Gainesville, they are located off of Archer Road on SW 35th Drive. While serving bowls and salads, they are known for their unbelievable burgers on freshly baked-from-scratch buns. They even have a chickpea meatless burger. And their

Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille – Downtown. Known for their Cajun, Creole and southern cuisine. Authentic New Orleans flavors including jambalaya and Po’ Boys. A staple in Gainesville for over 25 years.

Hooters – Yes, they are a chicken wing chain, but they do serve up some great chicken wings. And, IMHO, the best-fried pickles anywhere. Located on SW 34th Street off of Archer. You’ll also find sports on TV, happy hour, and half-price appetizer specials.

If It Is Kitchen & Cafe – Downtown. One of the newest restaurants in the downtown area, they are a made-to-order restaurant specializing in Thai cuisine and Sushi, and featuring a Tea Bar. The menu offers options for both individual or family-style service.

Just Salad – If you want to grab something quick (counter service), this new addition to Midtown serves up wraps, bowls, smoothies and, yes… salads. Most who live in NY, NJ, and Philly are familiar with this casual restaurant. We’d say that if you are in a hurry and don’t want full service, or are heading to a football game and need something healthier to eat than stadium fare, this is a great option.

How hungry are you?

Las Margaritas – 39th Avenue. Authentic and traditional Mexican cuisine including tacos, quesadillas, burritos, enchiladas and more. Try not to fill up on the salsa and chips that come to the table almost as soon as you are seated.

La Tienda Latina – 13th Street. Latin American cuisine meets Mexican with enchiladas, empanadas, tacos,and burritos. A great place for a casual, fairly inexpensive, and quick south-of-the-border dinner.

Liquid Ginger – Downtown. Thai and Japanese fusion entrees and sushi bar. Try their bento boxes which include salad and soup plus ice cream.

Mark’s Prime Steakhouse & Seafood – Downtown. This is considered the go-to restaurant for special occasions (yes…graduation!) if you are looking for a top steakhouse. Using the finest USDA beef, they are known for their filet mignon, bone-in ribeye, New York Strip steak, and Delmonico cuts. All steaks are cooked over a wood-fired grill and served on a hot plate sizzling in butter. Seafood options include wood-grilled salmon, lobster, seared diver scallops, and more.

The Social at Midtown – good bar food and an epic mac and cheese! Evening transforms the restaurant into a rooftop bar at night with a great view of the stadium.

Are you making your bucket list of good eats?

Mojo Hogtown – Downtown. Make sure to stop by this BBQ hotspot on one of your visits to Gainesville. You’ll find serious smoked-in-house barbecue pork, brisket, and chicken along with their famous onion rings, fried pickles, and southern platters. Pair that with a drink from their whiskey bar or one of their craft beers. Full bar, too. Yum, dinner.

OAK (Original American Kitchen) – Downtown. Southern fare prepared with a modern flair. If you’re not drooling at the sound of sweet tea short ribs, waffles with pulled pork, shrimp and grits, cajun crab dip, and roasted cauliflower tacos, we can’t help you. And can you say Fried Deviled Eggs and Happy Hour appetizer specials?!? I’m there.

Paramount – Downtown. Paramount is considered slightly more upscale than most restaurants in the downtown area, with a menu that includes southwestern-spiced salmon and grilled duck breast. But, Gainesville being a college town, you can still get in wearing nice jeans. They use mainly fresh ingredients prepared in an inspiring and creative manner. Reservations recommended, especially during peak weekends.

P.F. Changs – Butler Town Center, Archer. A Pan-Asian chain favorite, it’s the right place to eat if you are looking for either a Farm-to-Wok menu or traditional Asian food. Open for lunch as well, this restaurant easily accommodates groups and offers vegetarian and gluten-free options. Also serving lunch and happy hour specials. They will take reservations for up to 3 months out. For parties of 7 or more, call 352-570-7785.

Piesanos Stone Fired Pizza – Located in the Holiday Inn University Center (with two other locations in Gainesville), they are known for their traditional pizzas and Italian food. They boast over 40 rotating taps of local Florida pints and national craft beers. We went to Piesanos after a UF football game but there was about an hour’s wait. So instead, we grabbed two of the ready-made pizza pies they had on hand and headed back to our daughter’s house to eat. But our group has been easily accommodated in the restaurant on post-concert evenings, and it’s one of our favorites for that.

The dinner bell is ringing!

Red Rice – Located just off Archer, this small but sweet Asian Fusion restaurant offers everything from soup (pho) to nuts (peanut sauce), and everything sticky rice and spicy in between. Lunch is also served most days.

Satchel’s Pizza – A cash-only quirky pizza restaurant located on 23rd Avenue. If you’re in the mood for pizza with a vast amount of topping selections and calzones, this is the place to go. This is another long-time favorite of a family (ours!) known for loving both pizza and quirkiness. Closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Taste Pho & Noodle House (Vietnamese) – 34th Avenue. Serving Pan-Asian offerings including sushi, pad thai, and pho. See their dine-in only daily specials.

The Top – Downtown. There is typically a minimum 45-minute wait on weekends to get into this hip spot known for vegetarian and vegan options and its modern take on American food. In spite of the wait, it’s a must-try when you head to Gainesville.

V Pizza – Downtown. V Pizza is known for their authentic artisanal pizza made in ovens that come from Naples, Italy. (If you have ever been to Italy, you know that pizza there is not like the pizza served in the States.) Here, you’ll find homemade dough, very little sugar, and no preservatives. Be sure to try another of their well-known items: meatballs made with no breading. Just don’t tell Nana you did.

Wah Ha Ha Thai Food & Noodle Soup – 13th Street. A fairly unassuming Thai restaurant with great Thai Food, offering a buffet as well as an extensive menu.  Their spring rolls are made fresh daily…except for Tuesday, when they are closed.

Yummy House Chinese Bistro – 34th Street. Originally out of Tampa, you’ll find authentic Chinese food and dim sum here. Their signature Salt and Pepper Appetizers are award-winning.

So…who’s hungry???

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