Hampshire College is nestled in the beauty of the New England woods, surrounded by towering trees, blossoming flowers, and lush nature. It is the smallest school in the Five College Consortium (Amherst, Smith College, Mt. Holyoke, UMASS) but it is no school to overlook. A paradise for students who want some peace and quiet, Hampshire is also the perfect location for foodies, being close to Amherst, Hadley, and Northampton!
Feature Restaurant
The Alvah Stone
This casual, modern restaurant is a hidden treasure in Western Massachusetts. Located next to a sawmill river, Alvah is a treat for explorers wandering the wilderness. Its quaint location in nature, handmade food, and craft beers makes this cafe one of my favorite places to visit, especially in the warm seasons where the river is flowing and butterflies are out.
At Hampshire College, the Kern Kafé within the Airport Lounge has the most perfect coffee to start off the day!
Once you get your caffeine in for the day, take a small drive to The Stables for pancakes and sausages. Vietnamese sandwiches or Banh Mi at Omi Omy is a “must” for any good day.
And if you want a good,late-night hotpot, Gohyang is never far for you and your friends to settle down with empty stomachs.
Caffeine Fix
Kern Kafé
The Kern Kafé is actually Hampshire’s very own coffee club, located in the college’s Airport Lounge. A place frequented by both busy students on the go and the general public, the coffee here always gives a heavy boost of happy energy. This is especially important during study periods!
Breakfast & Brunch
Bridge Café
Like the Kern Kafé, the Bridge Café is a part of Hampshire College’s Airport Lounge, open to both the student body and the public. And like everyone’s beloved coffee shop, the Bridge has exceeded expectations in both delicious tastes and friendly faces.
The Stables Restaurant
Did you know that rich organic farm food is possible without any compromise? Well, I found out that the Stables is a place where delicious food is not just a reality but a rule. Driving down the road, you will come across a small little shack, just right off the main highway. The Stables slathers everything in butter, gravy, and lots of love!
Lunch & Dinner
Mission Cantina
It’s hard to find good Mexican food in the North. Among the Bueno Y Sanos and the Chipotles, Mission Cantina is a place renowned for its authenticity and love of good food. It’s a master of all things tacos, spices, and sauces. Simply walking into this restaurant fills you with the powerful punch of rich flavors.
El Comalito
Ever been to a place so bright and colorful, your eyes hurt for a minute? El Comalito is a fusion between Mexican and Salvadoran food, and—with the fruitiest drinks—it feels as though you are on a tropical island. Colors practically jump off the food, and the scents are mouthwatering.
Sibies Pizza
What’s a college without a staple pizza place? There is no better than Sibies Pizza, where the slices are a fusion between classic Italy and good old New York pride. It’s also one of the few places that specializes in vegetarian and gluten-free pizza, making it friendly for all diets!
Omi Omy
Banh Mi is a special Vietnamese street food sandwich. It’s made with a French baguette and filled with savory meats, cilantro, cucumbers, carrot, and radish shavings, and draped in an array of condiments from French pate to soy sauce. Everything is then lightly baked, so all the juices spill together. Hungry yet? Omi Omy can take care of that.
If Someone Else is Buying
Gohyang Korean Restaurant
Hot pot night is no joke. When it comes to Korean BBQ, hot soups, and shared dishes for a family of five, it’s best to go to Gohyang. The food is authentic Korean, with spicy kimchi, savory beef, and loads of radishes to go around. It’s fun trying out a new culture through food, and Gohyang is the best place for Asian delights.
Night Scene
Hangar Pub & Grill
What is it about wings and airplane-themed restaurants that flies so well with customers? Perhaps it is that these wings are edible, smothered in hot, mouth-watering sauces. No, they can’t fly from JFK to Austin International, but they can fly high with intoxicating smells and delicious tastes. Boneless or bone-in, it doesn’t matter when you have a whole list of sauces to try out!
Dessert
Flayvors of Cook Farm
Everyone knows the best ice cream only comes straight from the source. Cook Farm provides all visitors with a list of tasty options, made from the exceptionally loved cows of the farm. Take a bite from a cone while looking over the green valley! It will make any person feel at ease.
