Everyone has an opinion about Marshall Street, from where to go to what to eat when you get there. Now that there are new businesses moving in and old favorites moving out, the Pulp staff has an up-to-date rundown of the best and worst places to stuff your face on SU’s busiest road. Let us know your thoughts and vote for your favorite Marshall Street hotspot below.

 

 

Acropolis Pizza House: C+

A little bit Greek and a little bit Italian, Acropolis has one of the longest menus on Marshall Street, which gives it some points. However, it’s underwhelming and honestly average. Since it’s the only place on the Hill that serves some classic Italian dishes, though, it may be worth it if you’re craving something particular.

 

Avoca Mexican Grill: D+

The Pulp staff recently tried out the newest burrito joint on campus and it simply did not stack up to Marshall titan Chipotle. The meat was good, but everything else was bland or had an odd texture. Also, the odd mixture of Mexican and Chinese fare confuses patrons and makes it seem like the restaurant has an identity crisis.

 

Bleu Monkey Cafe: A-

Bleu Monkey is a favorite of variety of SU students for it’s relaxed atmosphere and excellent sushi. Although the prices are a little higher than other places on Marshall, especially for the specialty dinners, the extra cost is worth it when you want to treat yourself. The most noticeable issue there is seating, which is cramped in the areas off to the side of the entrance.

 

Calio’s: B

This calzone shop is the drunk-eating king of Marshall, especially now that Sliders is gone. Although their menu is limited to calzones, “dough chunks,” boneless wings and drinks, there is something for all of the inebriated. Some of the more interesting options include a Shepard Calzone and Garbage Calzone, but most students stick to the classics like the Buffalo Calzone. Fair warning: this place is super popular during late-night on weekends, so don’t be surprised if you have to wait a little while for your delivery.

 

 

Chipotle: A

This fast-food chain dominates Marshall Street, and fairly so. The lines are often out-the-door during peak meal hours and students are still willing to wait as long as it takes to get their favorite burrito bowl. Chipotle also demolished new competitor Avoca when Pulp put them head to head, so unless you’re in a serious rush, Chipotle should still be your go-to. Even then, you can order ahead in their app and your burrito can be ready for you when you get there.

 

 

Insomnia Cookies: A+

If you haven’t had a cookie from Insomnia, you aren’t doing college right. The tastiest dessert shop on Marshall delivers until 3 a.m. and the treats are almost always freshly baked, so you can have warm, gooey sweetness in your life until the wee hours of the night. They also have ice cream sandwiches, brownies and milk to complete your midnight snack.

 

 

 

Jimmy John’s: A+

Jimmy John’s may be one of the more underrated spots on Marshall Street. With flavorful sandwiches and friendly staff, you really can’t go wrong there. The Pulp staff recommends the “Vito,” which is a classic Italian 8″ sub. Plus, the delivery folks that ride around on their bikes blaring music make everyone’s days brighter.

 

King David: A-

Although this Mediterranean restaurant is a little bit harder to find, it should not be overlooked. Located above Chipotle, the restaurant boasts a large and affordable menu, and great views of campus. It can get a very warm up there during the summer months, though, and sometimes the service is slow. Otherwise, the food is always great and Pulp hears that the pizzas and baklava are what keep students coming back.

 

 

M Street Pizza: C+

Recently reviewed by Pulp writer Callie Weinstein, M Street is the block’s newest addition. Co-owned by the owner of Marshall Street staple Shirt World, the pizzeria serves New-York style slices and pies. All the pizzas are 20 inches in diameter and are made with handmade dough in a double-brick oven. Although Weinstein said she enjoyed the restaurant, it may not stand up against Acropolis or Varsity, two Marshall Street classics.

 

Panda West:  B-

Conveniently located, Panda West is a good place if you’re looking for a calm, sit-down meal. It has a very large dining area, which many places on Marshall lack, and the food is just as quickly on your table as most Chinese restaurants. However, it probably won’t blow you away as far as taste, and the prices are just okay. If you want the cheapest possible, a restaurant on GrubHub might be your best bet.

 

Pita Pit: B+

Pita Pit isn’t the most raved-about place on Marshall, but don’t count it out. It has some healthier options than other spots, including Chipotle, and the lines are never long. Plus it delivers until 4 a.m., which is an hour later than most of the other restaurants on this list.

 

 

Sweet Basil Thai House: F

The Pulp staff was not thrilled by their visit to Sweet Basil, which explains why the dining area is usually empty. The food tasted like it was picked up in the freezer section at the supermarket and microwaved, and had a filmy layer on it. Fortunately, Appethaizing is around the corner on and is delicious.

 

Starbucks: B+

The Starbucks on Marshall Street is busy from open to close, which shouldn’t be surprising. One of the most recognizable brands in the world, everyone from on-the-run professionals to sorority sisters live and breathe Starbucks coffee, despite it’s high prices. If you’re just looking for a cup of joe, People’s Place on campus or Cafe Kubal might be a smarter option, but if you want a Pumpkin Spice Latte, Starbuck’s is the way to go.

 

Varsity: A-

It’s practically impossible to get through a year at SU without trying Varsity’s pizza. One of the oldest establishments on the Hill, it can’t be overlooked even though it is technically on South Crouse Avenue and not Marshall Street. Even if you’ve professed your undying loyalty to your local pizzeria, give Varsity a chance. On game days, though, the pizzeria will be swamped with fans before and after the game, so avoid going during those times unless you’re looking for a Syracuse experience.

 

Yogurtland: A

A classic fro-yo spot, you can’t go wrong at Yogurtland. Make sure to take the time to sample new flavors because they often have specials available and try to branch out and try something new. With endless possible combinations, you can still be having new experiences at Yogurtland well into your senior year if you make the effort.

Published on September 15, 2015 at 1:28 pm