One thing university students have in common is the love of food. Food is at the centre of every social event, and for students, social events are at the centre of student life. University is all about embarking on a variety of adventures; whether these adventures are on foot in the outdoors, or meeting some friends for some food. For the adventurer that prefers the latter, here are a few restaurants and grills that offer the promise of exploration. Each restaurant has its own set of attractions and themes for the ultimate social experience.
Mustang Sally’s
This quirky, 60s diner themed restaurant is one that has taken a permanent residence in our hearts. The food is affordable and delicious. Meals range from the classic burger to the more exciting ‘oriental citrus and smoked chicken’ salad. Setting foot into Mustang Sally’s will take you back to the time of Grease and The Beatles. You will be sure to sing along to the famous Elvis Presley tunes that fill the strawberry-milkshake air while enjoying the company of your nearest and dearest.
Springbok Bar
For the more laid back and on a budget student, Springbok Bar offers you the typical campus-life setting. The food is good for its affordable prices. It is no wonder that it is always packed with students playing pool or chatting over a few drinks.
The Geek Eatery
Just up the road from Main Gate, there is a little spot called The Geek Eatery, attached to the student accommodation, Brooklyn House. This spot has a vast menu, overlooks the Hatfield Campus, and has free Wi-Fi. You will also receive a 15% discount if you bring along your student card.
Ekhaya Bar & Grill
Ekhaya Bar & Grill located on Burnett Street in Hatfield, and is the place to go for a good dance, drink, and food. Its refreshingly modern interior gives room for the DJ’s sound to bounce from ear to feet. It is a crowded luxury, which is great for meeting new people and having an overall good time.
Fokof Bar & Grill
Next on the list is Fokof Bar & Grill. It is elegant and spacious, with a theme of jungle bonfire that preserves the qualities of a typical student party. The food, although pricey, is nevertheless worthwhile. Situated near the university on 297 Lynnwood Road, make sure to keep Fokof Bar & Grill in mind when scheduling the next outing with your friends.
Skyline Rooftop Bar
Another honourable mention is Skyline Rooftop Bar. This enchanting place features a view from the rooftop of Protea Hotel Loftus Park. The open air that surrounds you is a stark contrast to the busy streets of Hatfield down below. This restaurant and bar elevates the social experience to another degree and offers many well-known dishes such as pizzas and pastas, salads, steaks and more.
Salsa Mexican Grill
Last but not the least is Salsa Mexican Grill. This Mexican themed restaurant features all the jalapeno grandeurs; from ‘Pulled pork tostadas’ to ‘El Chapo’s quesadillas’. Salsa offers the perfect ambiance for any occasion and should be kept in mind for special occasions.
Megan Thenunissen
My name is Ashleigh Pascoe and I am doing my Honours in Publishing. This is my fourth year studying at UP. I would describe myself as a bubbly extrovert with a passion for written work and writing!