GAINESVILLE – In a college town, there are always plenty of places to drink, but not always to eat. In Gainesville, these bar/restaurants are all located around University Avenue just north of the University of Florida campus.
But in downtown Gainesville, about a dozen blocks east of University of Florida, there is a well-maintained collection of restaurants in a lively downtown that speaks Old South trendy with restaurants like Liquid Ginger and Urban Flats. Most have outdoor eating areas.
The downtown restaurant district is south of University Avenue and east of Main Street. It not only encompasses restaurants, but a Hampton Inn and the Hippodrome State Theater.
Pictured here, Emiliano’s, which has a Cuban flavor, but not too gimmicky Latin tapas. It has college town prices, with some rice and bean dishes that can keep lunch well under $10 per person.
Emiliano’s Cafe, 7 SE 1st Ave., Gainesville, FL, (352) 375-7381‎, emilianoscafe.com
