Photo by Nicole Pierick
Going home for the summer is always exciting: the year is finally over, stress is eliminated and I get to spend time with my family and hometown friends. However, there are some things I miss about Kansas while I’m at home for the summer.
If you’re new to Ottawa, you’re going to want to check out these places, they will change your life. Here is a list of my top seven favorite places here in Kansas that make me excited to come back in August.
1. Hawaiian Bros
BEST PLACE EVER! I could eat here every day and never get bored. They are located at 1501 W 23 Street in Lawrence, Kan., which is about 20 minutes north of Ottawa. Personally, I order a number three with an extra scoop of pasta salad, instead of the extra scoop of rice. Plus, I add on the grilled veggies. Yum, ok, brb, on my way to Lawrence for dinner.
2. Fuzzy’s
No shocker here: another food place. This is also in Lawrence, located at 1115 Massachusetts Street. This cute Mexican restaurant stole my heart last year with jumbo margaritas and brisket quesadillas. Their chips and queso are fire, if you’re looking to just snack. They also have college nights where students are given discounts , so you’ll get to hang out with other students from KU, Baker and, of course, Ottawa. If you haven't yet had Fuzzy’s, go!
3. The Kabash
Last Lawrence one, I promise. This burger joint, located at 803 Massachusetts St, is famous for their delicious burgers and spiked ice cream shakes. The Butterfinger shake is a must have! If you’re not yet 21, you can still enjoy their shakes — just without the alcohol. They have various burgers, including BBQ and veggie burgers. They’re served with all kinds of sides, such as sweet potato fries, tater tots, onion rings and pretty much anything else you could want.
4. Mug Shot Coffee
Lawrence is great, but you don’t have to leave Ottawa for a good cup of coffee. Mug Shot is hidden off of Main Street, and is a cute coffee shop that always offers a smiling face and a warm “Hello” as soon as you open the door. Whether you go there to get coffee and leave, or go there to escape your crazy dorm, it’s surely the place for you! I am currently loving the iced sunshine; it’s so sweet and delicious!
5. Nagoya
Another Ottawa favorite! Nagoya has been around for about three years now and all I can say is THANK YOU! Nagoya offers traditional chinese food AND sushi. My favorite rolls are the lava roll, dragon roll, spicy crab roll and california roll. There are so many yummy options on their menu; it is definitely a must try here in town! They do have odd hours, so make sure you check when they are open before you head over there.
6. Louisburg Cider Mill
This one is a fall favorite. They are located in Louisburg, Kan., which is about 20 minutes east of Ottawa. They have apple cider and apple cider doughnuts. In the fall, they hold a festival with vendors set up and other fun fall activities. (Hint: This is a great date place)
7. Club Rodeo
This one is in Wichita, Kan. This is an 18+ club that has live bull riding throughout the night. They are known for playing country music for two-stepping, but they also mix it up and play some throwbacks and current pop songs. Grab a couple friends and dance the night away here.
8. Bonus
This one is a bonus one because it is not located in Kansas. OG Tattoo and Piercing, located in Grain Valley, Mo. is a fun place if you’re looking for a new piercing or tattoo. But it’s not just any piercing or tattoo place: on Tuesdays and Saturdays, they do $10 piercings. Yes, I am serious. No, there is no catch. I have gotten a couple piercings there are have never had any issues with any of them. The employees are all very cool and professional. Get a couple friends together and make the trip up there!
These are eight places that I absolutely love, and I’m sure you’ll be able to find just as many — if not more — that you love, too. I promise that if you go to any of these places, you will love them just as much as I do.