Moscow is teeming with local eateries that are often busy and crowded because of their popularity. It can be difficult to get a table on the weekend or sit in a coveted spot outside in the evening when downtown is busy. But, summer is the best time of the year to take advantage of the smaller population by trying out the best restaurants and cafes around town.
Many of these places are inexpensive and equally delicious. With relaxing and entertaining atmospheres, these eateries are perfect to chill out and spend part of the day with friends and food.
Stax
For a quicker lunch option, Stax, a small and recently revitalized sandwich shop, always hits the spot. Usually a busier and more crowded place to eat during the school year, Stax, although still tiny, has just enough room to eat and enjoy a fresh sandwich inside or outside. With sandwiches in the $6 to $12 range, there is something for every budget. Stax’s simple menu, with fresh and flavorful ingredients, makes for one of the best lunchtime hotspots in Moscow.
Moscow Bagel & Deli
While Moscow Bagel & Deli, commonly known as the “bagel shop,” is often used as a place to hangout in the late evening or even later in the night, it is a great place to eat lunch downtown. Moscow’s downtown atmosphere during the summertime feels like a quintessential quiet college town, and Moscow Bagel & Deli is the perfect place to see that. Sandwiched between other buildings on Main Street, the cafe has both inside and outside seating, and is just a few steps away from the center of downtown. Moscow Bagel and Deli has an array of bagels, sides and drink option at low prices — perfect for a college student sticking around in the summer.
Tapped – Taphouse & Kitchen
Tapped, also located downtown, has more of a sit-down restaurant vibe rather than a cafe. Often busy during the school year on weekends or in the evening, Tapped is a great place to go when town is less hectic. Tapped has an array of appetizer and meal options, along with the plethora of regional beers and wines always on tap. The best aspect of Tapped is that it is friendly to all ages. Whether it is dining with family, a group of friends or a date, the atmosphere of Tapped caters to everything and everyone. With a fresh and local vibe and flavor, Tapped is the best way to spend an evening eating, drinking and enjoying downtown Moscow.
Moscow Alehouse
Located right next to campus, the Moscow Alehouse is always bustling with college students and Moscow community members. It’s fast, friendly service and laid back atmosphere, make for a great place to spend part of the summer eating with friends. The Moscow Alehouse menu is filled with pub-like staples, like burgers, fries, nachos and chicken wings, along with an array of local brews to sample. The restaurant has a fun and friendly atmosphere, and caters to all kinds of food and drink tastes.The outside deck seating of the restaurant is the perfect place to eat on a warm summer evening.
La Casa Lopez
This restaurant almost always seems to be busy, no matter what time of the year. However, La Casa Lopez is the perfect spot to spend a summer afternoon. La casa Lopez offers cool drinks and delicious authentic Mexican food. With both indoor and outside dining options, this restaurant also provides a view of the downtown Moscow scene at fairly reasonable prices.
Hailey Stewart can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter at Hailey_ann97