Bringing Out Your Inner Foodie

THE DOG HAUS IN SANTA ANA FEATURES TATER TOTS AND THE DOWNTOWN DOG.

PHOTO CREDITS: MADDIE RUSSO

Story by Maddie Russo

When Jacob Eakin hasn’t eaten in a while, either because he’s too lazy to make something, or every swipe of his credit card makes his stomach ache, it’s hard to pass up his usual “go to” places and ignore the call of the animal fries. But, when already indulging in it the day before, he’s always looking to try something new. 

His search for new places to eat is a shared struggle among many Chapman students. You want to try something new, and of course, equally as delicious, but you have no idea where to go.

“After eating Chipotle three times in a week, it does get repetitive and I am always looking for new places to stop at,” said junior psychology major, Ali Robinson 

Chipotle, In-N-Out, Starbucks, you’ve heard the hoopla, but here are some of the greatest, bank account friendly, spots that are being overshadowed by these well known dining options. 

First stop, The Dog Haus.

2800 Main St, Santa Ana, CA 92705

(714) 953-4287

At The Dog Haus they serve all their burgers and hot dogs on the King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls. If you’re really in the mood to “throw down,” as sophomore Political Science major, Alexa Polin described his experience there, “then you can add on a side of onion rings, tater tots, fries, you name it, and grab one of their thick and creamy shakes while you’re at it.” 

Their menu is extensive, “I never knew that there could be so many ways to prepare a hot dog or hamburger,” sophomore Katie Nishida said.

 Not only that, but their items are complemented by humerous names such as “The Bad Mutha Clucka,”  “Holy Aioli,” or one that might appeal to many college students on a Saturday afternoon, “The Hangover.”

Overall, If you want to break away from your most familiar burger place and try something new, and inarguably delicious, this is the place to go. You’ll be greeted by friendly staff and incredible food.

Second Stop, The US Taco Co.

150 5th St, Huntington Beach, CA 92648

(714) 536-6728

We all know, “Chipotle is BAE,” according to all Snap Chatters, Instagramers and Facebook users alike. But if you want to mix it up a little bit and try something new, then head down to Huntington Beach and stop by The US Taco Company.

“The interior was very modern and it complemented their tacos because that was the style of their food as well, it wasn’t your average guacamole and sour cream toppings,” said sophomore Strategic Corporate Communications major, April Tran.

You won’t be able to resist walking in and seeing what this street front dining has to offer. When you spot the huge light up sign read, “EAT TACOS,” accompanied by cool, modern interior, full of vibrant colors and customers shoving their faces with what looks like something that came straight out of a foodie magazine, you’ll be in the door without even realizing it. 

They have a large selection of tacos filled with all kinds of toppings, meats, cheeses, slaws, sauces, you name it. Similar to The Dog Haus they’ve also caught on to the trend of having fun names for their tasty food such as, “Wanna Get Lei’d,” “Not My First Rodeo,” and “The Hot Chick.”

The owners have traveled all over the US to find the best products for their food. Lobster from the Atlantic, Brisket from Texas, and cheese from the Heartland of America.

Before you go, Make sure to sip down one of their boozy milkshakes, “Shut your Piehole,” “Friggin’ Fried Ice Cream,” or “Coco Loco,” for all you chocolate lovers out there.  

Maybe you’re thinking, “That sounds nice, but I’m looking for something more relaxing and ‘off the beaten path,’ somewhere I can do my homework and not be bothered.”

Look no further, because The Gypsy Den is the place for you.

125 N Broadway, Santa Ana, California

(714) 835-8840

This small, quirky cafe is the perfect place to get your study on with a nice cup of joe and a fresh sandwich by your side. This is a place for all you health nuts out there.

“The atmosphere is so eclectic it feels like you might be an intruder in someone’s attic. You walk in and you don’t know where to look first, but somehow it’s not overwhelming. It’s calming. The mellow music and ambient lighting create the perfect vibe that wills you to calm down, sit back and relax, right as you walk in,” said sophomore Political Science major,  Erika Aranda. 

Whatever it is, it makes you feel as if you’re sitting in a hipster’s paradise. 

To top it all off, their food is fresh. They make all of their desserts and pastries daily. All the soups are house-made from scratch, nothing out of can, along with their salads and sandwiches.

Their claim to fame is their Chili and Vegetarian soups, so make sure to check that out before you dine and dash.  

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