A Freshmen Guide: Food You Can Walk To

By Claire Hansen
Blog Content Contributor

 If you are one of those lucky souls taking their first steps (or ascending their first flight of stairs) on the Texas State campus this semester, you will soon find that meal swipes and dining halls can get old very quickly. Every college freshman deserves a little variety in their diet from time to time, so here are a few of the places within walking distance from campus that saved me while I was still living in good ol’ San Jacinto Hall.

Gumby’s

A San Marcos classic, Gumby’s Pizza has been serving it’s greasy, delicious creations to students and non-students alike for years. They have all sorts of funky topping combinations for their pizzas, as well as some other equally yummy menu items like pepperoni rolls and Pokey Stix. What’s even better is that they are open until 3:30 a.m., so whether you’ve just finished a long night of studying or are heading back to your dorm from a party, Gumby’s has always got you covered. I recommend the Stoner Pie.

Torchy’s

If you haven’t already been to Torchy’s Tacos in another location, then now is your time! Torchy’s, although a chain, became the perfect addition to San Marcos when it opened in 2015. They make a mean queso with guacamole in the middle that is just heavenly, and I am convinced that there is not one bad item on their menu. They construct all kinds of different tacos, from delightful breakfast tacos that will start any day off right, to the classic concoctions featuring beef, chicken, or pork, to a few lovely fish tacos and veggie tacos for the more health-conscious. Needless to say, there is a Torchy’s taco for everyone.

Dos Gatos

Taking a look at the other side of campus now, there is still no shortage of good eats. Dos Gatos, located on N LBJ Drive, is the ideal go-to for someone in search of a fast, wallet-friendly yet delectable breakfast. They specialize in their kolaches, which, in my opinion, are probably some of the best kolaches in existence. To make things even better, they are all less than $3!

Pie Society

This pizza palace happens to be just a short walk away from Dos Gatos and is no less enticing. Pie Society offers a realm of high-quality, exquisite “pies” that hit the spot every time. Their pizzas may not be the cheapest in town, but they sell them by the slice every day from 11-2 and 5-8. They also offer a range of delicious calzones, subs and salads!

Urban Bricks

Lastly (but certainly not least), we have our newest addition to the San Marcos food chain, Urban Bricks. I know this is the third pizza parlor I have included in this list but I just could not leave it off, simply because it is different than the rest! Imagine Chipotle…. But, for pizza. Yeah. That is right, it is a build-your-own pizza spot where the choices start all the way back at the crust. You go down the line, designing your own personal pizza before they throw it in a massive oven, and then in just a few minutes, you have your very own piping hot creation! It is truly a marvel to behold.

There are so many more incredible restaurants throughout San Marcos, with new ones popping up every semester. Exploring the different options around town is a good way of seeing all that San Marcos has to offer. I encourage everyone, freshman or not, to find their inner foodie!

Featured image by Claire Hansen.