As an Embry-Riddle student, I’ve learned pretty quickly that some of the best food in Daytona isn’t the places that everyone already knows. It is usually the local spots just a few minutes from campus that you only find though friends or random late-night food runs. Whenever I want something different from the everyday chain food or student union options, these are my top resturants that I keep going back too. They are all very close to Embry-Riddle, consistently tasty, and each place has its own vibe depending on what I’m in the mood for.
Location #1: Giuseppe’s Steel City Pizza 🍕
Giuseppe’s is my go-to whenever I’m craving delicious pizza. The slices are huge, cheesy, and super filling. You could easily share a pizza between a group of three and still leave there hungry. The have a vast menu with anything and everything. I’ve grabbed pizza to go from here on those long days after classes and meetings, and its always been hot and fresh. I recommend you get the garlic knots as an appetizer. However, be careful as they are extremely tasty and you’ll be wanting some to-go as well.
Location #2: Hanwoo Korean BBQ 🥩
Hanwoo is one of the most fun spots I’ve found near Embry-Riddle. You grill the meat and vegetables right at your table, making the whole meal feel interactive an social. It is the perfect place for going with friends or celebrating. So far I think we have celebrated a couple birthdays and checkride passes. The sides and marinade make everything taste authentic and unique from other options in the area. Whenever I have family or friends visiting this is one of the first places we go.
Location #3: Tiki Docks Bar & Grill 🌴
Growing up in the Gulf Coast I developed a love for seafood at a very young age. Thankfully Daytona has many seafood places to offer. My favorite is Tiki Docks. This is where I go when I want something that feels very coastal without driving far. Sitting outside by the water, especially around sunset, feels like a mini vacation from school stress. The seafood and tropical drinks area the perfect combination. It is a great place for nice dinners, family visits, and celebrating after exams.
Location #4: The Casual Bird 🌊
The Casual Bird is my comfort-food favorite near school. They have a great amount of variety in their menu. My go to sandwich is the Turkey Melt with a side of hash brown casserole. If you are a coffee drinker they have a variety of coffee options with lots of room for customization. The seating area offers a coastal vibe where you can relax with friends, get coffee with the girls, and grab a delicious bite to eat before going to the beach.
One of my favorite parts of living off-campus has been discovering the local restaurants that make Daytona feel more like home. These restaurants have all become regular stops for me and friends depending on what we are craving. They are all close to campus but feel different from the usual student spots, which is exactly what makes them hidden gems. If you’re an ERAU student looking to branch out from the typical food rotation, these are definitely worth trying.
Until the next wave 🌊,
Grace Hamilton
