Introduction
Finished a marathon shopping session at Southlands and suddenly struck with a rumbling stomach? You’re definitely not alone! Southlands, a vibrant hub for shopping, entertainment, and community events, is a popular destination. But what happens when hunger strikes? Fear not, because the area surrounding Southlands is a treasure trove of culinary delights, offering everything from quick bites to fine dining experiences. This article serves as your ultimate guide to the best food near Southlands, ensuring you find the perfect spot to satisfy your cravings, no matter your taste or budget. We’ll explore a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and eateries, catering to various palates and wallets, all conveniently located within close proximity to the shopping center.
Let’s embark on a delicious journey to uncover the culinary landscape just a stone’s throw away from Southlands.
Defining the Neighborhood: Just How Close is “Near?”
Before we dive into the specific recommendations, it’s important to clarify what we mean by “near.” For the purposes of this article, we’re focusing on establishments located within approximately a five-mile radius of Southlands. This includes restaurants and cafes easily accessible by car within about a ten-minute drive. Geographically, we’re primarily looking at options within the surrounding area of Aurora, Colorado, focusing on the neighborhoods and commercial areas that directly border Southlands. This ensures you can quickly and easily find a great meal without venturing too far from your shopping or entertainment destination. We want to save you time and energy so you can enjoy more of your time with delicious food.
A World of Flavors: Exploring Cuisine Options
One of the best things about the food scene near Southlands is the sheer variety available. Whether you’re in the mood for classic American comfort food, fiery Mexican flavors, or something a little more exotic, you’re sure to find something to tantalize your taste buds.
American Classics and Comfort Food
If you’re craving a juicy burger, crispy fries, or some good old-fashioned comfort food, you’re in luck. Several restaurants in the area specialize in American cuisine. Consider “The Burger Joint,” known for its hand-crafted burgers made with locally sourced beef. Their signature “Southlands Stack” is a towering masterpiece, and their prices are moderate. For a more upscale American dining experience, try “The Grille on Main,” which offers a sophisticated menu featuring steaks, seafood, and pasta dishes. Expect to pay a bit more, but the quality and ambiance are worth it. “Mama’s Diner” is another great option, serving up classic diner fare in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. This is an affordable option with generous portions, perfect for a casual meal. Don’t miss their milkshakes! They are one of the most popular menu items. Looking for something with a southwestern twist? “Prairie Smoke BBQ” provides amazing smoked meats with a great selection of sides.
Spice It Up: Mexican Delights
When the craving for tacos, enchiladas, or a margarita hits, the restaurants near Southlands have you covered. “Casa del Sol” offers a vibrant and authentic Mexican dining experience, with traditional dishes prepared using fresh ingredients. Their margaritas are legendary, and their prices are reasonable. For a more casual and lively atmosphere, check out “Taco Loco,” a popular spot known for its street tacos and extensive selection of Mexican beers. This is a great option for a quick and affordable lunch or dinner. If you’re looking for something a bit more upscale, “La Cantina” offers modern takes on Mexican classics with a focus on creative cocktails and a sophisticated ambiance. Remember to ask about their daily specials!
A Taste of Italy: Pasta, Pizza, and More
For those who appreciate the simple pleasures of Italian cuisine, the area around Southlands offers several excellent choices. “Bella Italia” is a long-standing favorite, serving up classic pasta dishes, pizzas, and other Italian specialties in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Their lasagna is a must-try. They also offer a great selection of wines to pair with your meal. Another excellent option is “Pizzeria Roma,” known for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven. This is a more casual spot, perfect for a quick and delicious meal. Looking for something for a special occasion? “Angelo’s Trattoria” offers an intimate setting and a menu filled with delicious pasta dishes, seafood, and other Italian specialties. Don’t forget to try the tiramisu!
Across the Pacific: Exploring Asian Cuisine
From savory sushi to aromatic Thai curries, the restaurants offering Asian cuisine near Southlands provide a diverse and flavorful experience. “Sakura Sushi” is a popular choice for fresh and expertly crafted sushi and sashimi. They also offer a variety of Japanese entrees, such as teriyaki and tempura. “Thai Basil” is another excellent option, serving up authentic Thai dishes with a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Their Pad Thai is a local favorite, and their prices are very reasonable. Craving some Chinese takeout? “Golden Dragon” offers a wide selection of classic Chinese dishes at affordable prices.
Quick Bites and Casual Cafes
Sometimes, you just need a quick and convenient bite to eat. Fortunately, the area around Southlands is also home to a variety of casual cafes and fast-food restaurants. “The Coffee Bean Cafe” offers a wide selection of coffee drinks, pastries, and sandwiches, perfect for a quick breakfast or lunch. For a delicious and healthy option, check out “Smoothie Paradise,” which offers a variety of smoothies, juices, and salads. Looking for a quick and tasty burger? You’ll find all the usual fast-food chains nearby. “The Sweet Spot Bakery” provides delicious pastries and treats to satiate any sweet tooth.
Dining Experiences Suited to Different Occasions
Beyond the general cuisine types, thinking about the dining experience you want will help refine your choices.
Family Friendly Dining
Several establishments cater especially to families. “The Pizza Palace” offers great deals for larger groups. They also have a children’s menu with many options kids love. This is also a great casual option. “Prairie Smoke BBQ” provides large portions and has a great outdoor seating area for children to run around.
Romantic Evenings
For date nights, “Angelo’s Trattoria” and “La Cantina” stand out with more intimate settings.
Budget Conscious Choices
“Taco Loco” and “Mama’s Diner” allow great options for affordable meals with generous portions.
Options for Vegetarian and Vegan Diets
Those seeking plant-based meals should look at the menu at “Thai Basil” which has great vegetarian options.
Happy Hour Highlights
“Casa del Sol” and “The Grille on Main” usually offer happy hour specials on certain days.
Hidden Gems and Local Favourites
Beyond the well-known chains, there are a few hidden gems worth seeking out. “The Spice Merchant” offers authentic Indian Cuisine. Many of the local prefer this restaurant over chain places. It’s a family owned establishment. Their menu is extensive and can be confusing for beginners.
Tips for Making Your Choice
Choosing the right restaurant can feel overwhelming with so many options. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend?
- Cuisine Preferences: What are you in the mood for?
- Dietary Restrictions: Do you have any allergies or dietary needs?
- Atmosphere: Are you looking for a casual or formal experience?
- Time of Day: Are you looking for breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
Always consult online reviews from Yelp and Google Review to see what other people have to say about their experiences.
A Delicious Conclusion
As you can see, the area around Southlands is a culinary paradise, offering something for everyone. From casual cafes to upscale restaurants, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to satisfy your cravings. With such a diverse range of choices available, there’s no excuse to go hungry after a long day of shopping or entertainment. So, the next time you’re in the Southlands area, take some time to explore the fantastic food options nearby. We encourage you to try some of the restaurants mentioned in this article and share your own recommendations in the comments below! Happy eating!
