As college students, it’s easy to give in to the temptation of eating at the same few places–mostly major chains. It can also be difficult for students from out of town who are looking to try local eateries.

“I’ve lived here for four years. I couldn’t tell you anything that’s around here. I just let other people guide me around or tell me good places to eat,” said recent graduate Molly Pryor.

For some, the distance from campus or workaround with a class schedule can be the issue.

“It can be hard to eat off campus with my class schedule. I don’t want to go too far off campus,” said senior Aidan Doll.

Junior Matthew Rose added, “It’s just cheaper and easier to either eat on campus or eat at home,”

Supporting local businesses can be a great way to give back to the community around campus. To make it easier, this list of eateries has been made with students in mind.

Starting with the closest to campus, here are some local restaurants within roughly four miles of NKU.

Skyline Tavern –.4 Miles
A classic with students for its proximity to campus, Skyline Tavern is a staple of NKU. Serving wings, fries and the other things to expect at a bar and grill, the main appeal is the bar scene for those over 21. There are constantly events and specials happening, often posted on the tavern’s social media accounts, especially their Instagram: skyline.tavern

430 Johns Hill Rd, Highland Heights, Kentucky, 41076

Pepper’s Mexican Grill –1.1 Miles

One of the newest restaurants on the list, Pepper’s is known among students for serving not just salsa, but also a “spicy ranch” with their chips. The restaurant hosts a variety of traditional Mexican cuisine options, but also has a bar within. Weekly specials and happy hours occur, specifically the popular “2-for-1 Margaritas” every Tuesday.

48 Martha Layne Collins Blvd, Cold Spring, Kentucky, 41076

Maki Asian Bowls –1.1 Miles
A restaurant that features various Asian cuisines, Maki Asian Bowls covers everything from boba tea and sushi to ramen and pork katsu curry. Open for lunch and dinner but closed in between. They offer not only dine-in, but carry out and delivery via Grubhub as well.

56 Martha Layne Collins Blvd, Cold Spring, Kentucky, 41076

Nittha Siam Kitchen–1.7 Miles
Specializing in Thai food, this restaurant offers a variety of different dishes for any flavor pallet. They serve different lunch and dinner specials. A fan favorite is the “Sushi Lover’s Lunch,” including two rolls and a miso soup, which can be upgraded to a deluxe lunch. There is also a wide variety of pad Thai and soups to pick from.

2415 Alexandria Pike, Highland Heights, Kentucky, 41076

Barleycorns –1.9 Miles
Another bar and grille, Barleycorns often has a “row of the game” at basketball games, where audience members can potentially win free wings. With wings and other specials, Happy Hour is a big hit at Barleycorns, offering $3 domestic pints and a 75 cent discount on other beverages. There are 10 sauces to choose from in addition to various burgers. There are several locations in the area to choose from, but Cold Spring is closest.

1073 Industrial Rd, Cold Spring, Kentucky, 41076

VIP Mediterranean Restaurant and Hookah Lounge –2.1 Miles
There are shawarma plates, falafel and more at VIP Mediterranean. VIP serves traditional Greek and Mediterranean food for all pallets; in sandwiches, gyros, and various sides. Besides dine-in options, there is also delivery via GrubHub. It is connected to the VIP Hookah Lounge.

4135 Alexandria Pike, Cold Spring, Kentucky, 41076

Longnecks Sports Bar –3.7 Miles

If you’ve ever sat in the student section at an NKU basketball game, you’ll recognize Longnecks signs behind the seating. The menu has a wide selection of items, from wings and burgers to sandwiches and pizzas. A fan-favorite spot to watch the games, spend happy hour or cater your next event.

1009 Town Dr, Wilder, Kentucky, 41076

Maharaja Indian Restaurant –3.7 Miles
Located in Wilder, Maharaja serves traditional Indian cuisine using authentic ingredients. The menu has a wide range of options, from salads and deserts to specials based on the meat. Whether it be lamb, goat, chicken or vegetarian, there is always an option. Desseerts and various milk-based beverages are also served.

1007 Town Dr, Wilder, Kentucky, 41076

Almost all of these are accessible by public transportation; the TANK bus (free with an NKU All Card) has stops within walking distance of all but Longnecks and Maharaja. Both of those are only accessible by car, being located in Wilder.