Being a college student and eating well do not typically go hand-in-hand. College students usually choose the cheap route over the tasty, gourmet route, but every one of us looks forward to special occasions or visits from family to give us the opportunity to rid ourselves of ramen and pizza and enjoy a delicious gourmet dinner.
With graduation looming in the near future, the time has come to ask your inner moocher one thing: ‘What nice restaurant should I take my parents to on their dollar?’ While restaurants like Marché, Beppe and Gianni’s and Oregon Electric Station are perfectly delectable, they barely scratch the surface of fine dining options in Eugene. You may not be familiar with these amazing restaurants, but they will impress your parents and serve you a mouth-watering celebratory meal.
Black Rabbit Bistro
2864 Willamette St., Ste. 300
This restaurant offers creative and unique cocktails, fresh French bistro cuisine and some unusual fare. While there are savory steak, chicken and fish options, you can also opt for a more adventurous dish such as frog legs, veal or sausage.
The French Onion Soup has big onion flavor and is not
over-cheesed.
Belly
291 E. 5th Ave.
European-style cuisines are made with a twist, as many dishes are created around one theme: pork. The food can also be described as “rustic European,” made from a fusion of French and Italian techniques with Northwest food. Pork Shoulder Confit is Belly’s specialty, but its fresh seafood is also perfectly scrumptious.
Excelsior Inn
754 E. 13th Ave.
This restaurant is a close-to-home option, offering delicious Italian-style food and an amazing dessert menu. Proud to be part of the slow food movement, the menu changes with the seasons and uses only fresh local and organic ingredients. A favorite is Ravioli all’Aragosta, or Lobster Ravioli. The award-winning pastry chef was featured on the Today Show in Ann Curry’s “favorites from home” segment.
Café Soriah
384 W. 13th Ave.
This Mediterranean-style restaurant does heavenly seafood. Simple and fresh ingredients are often paired with powerful Moroccan flavors. Some options include Moroccan Beef Short Ribs, Bouillabaisse and Sweet Pepper and Lamb Ragu.
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