Paris has a reputation as the “city of love.” It is the ideal city for young couples because it is full of romantic attractions such as the Pont des Arts, Jardin du Luxembourg, and most famous of all, the Eiffel Tower. Not to mention, there are hundreds of fancy restaurants to choose from. Only one problem…it’s across the ocean from us here on Mayflower Hill.
Any girl (or guy) knows that Waterville is no Paris. Still, Waterville does have some great options for dates; you just have to find them. To spare you the effort (and plane ticket), I’ve asked fellow Colby students about their favorite restaurants for dates and best post-date activities.
Restaurants:
- Mainely Brews: So maybe I’m a bit biased since my boyfriend and I went on our first date at Mainely’s. Still, all of my friends agree that Mainely’s has the best burgers in town. They also have a ton of pastas, seafood, and vegetarian options. And best of all, it is well priced and easy to get into.
- Cancun: What could be better than having a cute Spanish man come up to your table and serenade you with “La Bamba?” Cancun is the place to go if you enjoy spicy food, but it still manages to attract those of us who don’t because it has a few American options on the menu. Plus, I hear they make delicious cocktails!
- Ming Lee Chinese Restaurant: The headline on the website doesn’t lie: Ming Lee’s is “the area’s finest Szechuan & Mandarin cuisine.” This restaurant has an extensive menu, featuring all your favorite Chinese dishes. Only problem: tends to be pretty crowded on Friday and Saturday nights.
- La Cucina: I’ve gotten mixed reviews about La Cucina (formerly The Breadbox). While the restaurant is pretty, some complained that the food was not very fresh. Another student said that there weren’t enough options on the menu. However, if you’re looking for a nice Italian restaurant, I’d definitely recommend La Cucina. Just remember to make a reservation.
- Riverside Café: Technically in Oakland, Riverside has delicious food and is definitely the fanciest restaurant you can get in the 15-minute radius of Mayflower Hill. All of the food is locally produced and fresh. From smoked salmon with fettuccine to grilled rib eye, Riverside is full of options. The only complaint I got was that the service was a bit slow and that it was pricey. From my own experience, I’d definitely recommend Riverside. Just be sure to make a reservation.
- Pad Thai Too: Definitely can’t forget this Colby favorite. Pad Thai Too is fast, inexpensive, and tasty. One of my friends claims that it is the best Thai food she has ever had. If you’re not sure what to order, I strongly recommend the Double Happiness…it’s unique and rumored to make you “double happy.” Also, PTT is really nice about doing separate checks.
- The Last Unicorn: Many of you probably went to this restaurant with your parents when they dropped you off at school or came up for parents weekend. They offer a mix of Italian, classic, and exotic entrees. They have a special menu as well which allows you an appetizer, an entrée, and two sides. Tip: Go early or late, as the bulk of customers come between 6 and 7.
- Apollo’s Bistro: Though I’ve never actually eaten here, I have been upstairs (I go to the spa downstairs a little too frequently). Point is: the bistro is beautiful. There are so many great entrees to choose from and I haven’t heard a bad thing about any of their options. If you’re looking for a romantic dinner, Apollo is the go to place. Again, you need a reservation.
- The Early Bird: Why should we exclude the most important meal of the day? The Early Bird is open from 5:30 am to 2:00 pm. It’s exactly what my father would call a “Greasy Spoon,” because it has every unhealthy breakfast food you could ever want. Not to mention, it is the ultimate cure to a hangover. VERY inexpensive.
Post Date Options
Skip the movies and do something a little more adventurous! I asked my friend about his favorite places to go after a date…or a party for that matter…
- Hillside Tunnels: Who knew that there were tunnels under these dorms?
- Diamond Showers: Yes, the showers in the bathrooms in Diamond.
- Second Floor of the Library: Not sure how this one worked…
- Below the Info Desk: Not sure how this one worked either…then again maybe it’s best these kinds of things are kept secret.
- Roof of Heights: Just don’t go during the day because many girls love to work on their tan up there.
- Dana Beach: Closest you’ll get to sex on the beach.
- Runnals Hill: The only one on this list I’ve actually tried. Great place to stargaze.
While we may not have the Eiffel Tower or luxurious gardens, the Colby campus and the city of Waterville definitely have plenty of wild options! Where have you gone on your favorite date? Post below!
Photo Source:
http://www.apollosalonspa.com/html/bistro.html