If I had to pick my favorite aspect of Philly, it would definitely be the FOOD. Seriously, I would pick eating food over touring historical landmarks or going to a Phillies game any day.

The best part about food in Philadelphia is that eating here is no joke. Philadelphians are serious about eating, which is nice because as I said, it is my favorite past time. Another nice thing in regards to this subject is that on the first day of orientation, we at MCPC have the opportunity to go to various ethnic restaurants around the city. Since this is my second semester, through this opportunity I have been to an Indian Restaurant in West Philly, and also an Ethiopian Restaurant. Both were different yet delicious experiences.

This weekend I ventured to South Philly for some authentic Mexican Cuisine. Sure, a Qdoba may have been put in recently on Temple’s campus, but I was in the mood for the real thing. I am so glad that I did not let my laziness take me to the Qdoba alternative, as Taqueria La Veracruzana on Washington Ave. turned out to be so incredibly good.

I ordered a burrito, thinking it would be small. So, I also ordered a side of rice and beans. Well, the burrito turned out to be bigger than my head and the rice and beans could have fed a small army. I didn’t let this stop me from eating it all, though. (Note: don’t force yourself to eat everything you order. I just happen to be very into eating, as stated earlier).

What was so nice about Taqueria La Veracruzana is that they also carry an assortment of authentic Mexican beverages which are imported. These include a delicious juice called “Boing!” I tried the mango, and it was amazing. My friend ordered a bottle of imported Coca-Cola. They also carry domestic coke, but it’s more fun to drink it out of the tall, skinny, glass bottle. And the writing is in Spanish. It’s like a fiesta in a bottle, seriously. Also, the restaurant has its own white, milky beverage which the waitress said was the equivalent of “rice milk” in English. However, after consulting a friend, I was told that the beverage is actually more of a sweet sugary milky substance and is quite tasty.

While you may find yourself wanting to go to Qdoba, or even across the street to McDonald’s, I urge you to try new things while in Philadelphia. If you’re as serious about eating as I am, then you’ll learn that the city has endless options when it comes to eating. Avoid the chain restaurants, but if you can’t resist, I’d recommend Applebee’s on 15th and Sansom, as they have half-price appetizers after 9. Yum.