With all the new restaurants opening at the nearby Cascades Overlook, it is important to know which ones are worth visiting. 

Spot #1: Choolaah

Google Review: 4.4/5 stars

Type of food: Indian BBQ

Hours: 11 a.m. -9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday & 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday

With its fun flavors and friendly customer service, Choolaah is a good option for those who want to try something new without wandering too far from their comfort zones. From meat lovers to vegetarians, the menu has a broad variety of options for everyone. Although it is Indian BBQ, the average spice level in most of their dishes is mild and tolerable. The restaurant itself has an organized, clean atmosphere – not to mention it houses a “Handwash-o-matic.” This device actually washes your hands for you after you’ve finished your meal. Choolaah’s the perfect place for a squad lunch or even a family dinner.

Spot #2: Colada  

Google Review: 4.6/5 stars

Type of food: Cuban Coffee Shop

(average) Hours: 7 a.m.-9 p.m.

Link to their online menu: Click here

The Colada Shop is a good option this time of year. With the cold weather kicking in and midterm exams approaching, it’s the perfect hangout. Whether you need a nice space for studying or a cozy place to unwind after all the holiday shopping you’ve been doing, Colada is the place to go. They have hot drinks and warm, fresh empanadas. The environment is homey, cozy, and aesthetically pleasing. Their outside seating is not only nice in the summer, but also in the winter as they convert the outdoor seating area, making it comfortable and toasty all  winter long.

Spot #3: Abbott’s 

Google Review: 4.8/5 stars

Type of food: Frozen Custard/Sweet treats

Hours: 12-9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday & 12-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday

Link to their Facebook where they post their flavors each day:  Click here

If you want to get dessert or are simply craving something sweet, Abbott’s is a good choice for you. With its google reviews standing higher than even Sweet Frog (which has a 3.8/5 stars), it’s a fresh, fun, and hip place to visit with friends and family. The menu has a broad variety of options to choose from and the flavors alternate daily so you’ll never get bored. They even have hot chocolate and coffee floats for the winter time. The atmosphere of the shop is super clean, welcoming, and the prices are also reasonable. Although frozen custard is not the most popular form of frozen desserts around here, it’s definitely worth trying.

Spot #4: Zoup

Google Review: 4.4/5 stars

Type of food: Soups, Sandwiches, and Salads

Hours: 11 a.m. -9 p.m. Monday-Saturday & 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Sundays

Link to their online menu: Click here

Zoup takes you back to the basics with sandwiches, soups, and salads. However, it takes these basic foods and presents them through unique flavors. They offer many different choices of soups and sandwiches, and if you’re a Panera Bread fan, then you’ll definitely enjoy Zoup as well. It’s a nice place to go on a cold, rainy day or in the wintertime when you need something warm in your stomach. The restaurant’s environment is warm and comfortable which makes it a great place to dine with some friends.