Ebaes is a hip spot a few blocks away from campus that serves an array of inventive Japanese-inspired dishes, including small plates, ramen bowls, and sushi rolls. The signature Thai-style ramen is made with coconut milk, which results in an ultra-creamy broth. Past the heavy wooden door is a dimly lit interior that feels more like a local pub, complete with bold decor and eclectic, colorful artwork. Definitely take advantage of daily happy hour deals between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., and visit on the first of the month for $7 ramen.

For fans of all-day breakfast, look no further than Jacks N Joe. Though the small, diner-esque spot offers a variety of brunch options including omelets, breakfast plates, and sandwiches, the pancakes — known here as flapjacks — reign supreme. The warm and fluffy hotcakes are elevated with decadent toppings like lemon butter, cinnamon apples, and crumbled Oreos, and they pair especially well with a cup of the house roast coffee.

Despite its not-so-appetizing name, Dirt Dog nails it with creative and hefty takes on the classic hot dog. Each version starts with a bacon-wrapped Nathan’s frank in a toasted bun that is then loaded up with toppings and sauces. The House Dog is the restaurant’s signature and comes with grilled veggies, house spread, mayo, mustard, ketchup, and bacon bits. Make sure to try the fries, which are coated in a chili-lime seasoning and also come in various renditions, including an elite-inspired version.

For top-notch Indian and Nepalese food near campus, Himalayan House is the obvious choice. Though the restaurant’s exterior appears small and unassuming, the menu is quite the opposite, as it boasts a wide array of classic Indian dishes like chicken tikka masala and garlic naan, as well as steamed momo dumplings. The mixed tandoori platter is a stellar choice for those who want to dabble in an array of flavorful protein options, while the yak meat is also worth a try for those feeling adventurous.

Swing by Dulce to satisfy any sweet tooth or caffeine craving. The cafe and bakery specializes in coffee drinks and a variety of unique baked goods, ranging from roti buns and baguettes to brick toast and doughnuts. Green tea and bacon doughnuts are two of the most popular flavors, and they make for a great accompaniment to the drinks. The milk teas are a hit, along with the blueberry matcha and Vietnamese-style iced coffee.

Another gem in the USC Village, Honeybird serves Southern comfort food, with golden fried chicken as the star of the show. The chicken is hormone-free and brined for 28 hours in Honeybird’s herb and spice mix. The garlic mashed potatoes, collard greens, and macaroni salad make worthy sides to the mixed chicken meals, while the fried chicken sandwiches come with pimento cheese, slaw, tomato, and pickled chilies. Make sure to grab a slice of homemade pie to finish off the meal.

For a healthy fast-casual option at the USC Village, Greenleaf makes a solid choice. The restaurant prioritizes sourcing local and natural ingredients for its hearty bowls, salads, sandwiches, and plates. The biggest appeals of Greenleaf include its innovative, refreshing cocktail menu, seasonal specials, and all-day breakfast items. Visit during happy hours on weekdays between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. for the best deals on drinks and small bites.

Rock & Reilly’s brings the spirit of a modern Irish pub to the USC Village. The atmosphere teeters between lively and laid back, depending on when one visits and what game is playing. But the food and drinks are consistently decent. Appetizers like the fried pickles and sliders are a great accompaniment to the beers on tap, and one can’t go wrong with the burgers. Tuesday is the preferred night to stop by for those looking to get a fix of trivia or a good deal on tacos.

The Lab Gastropub is a science-themed bar located right by the campus and a dependable pit stop for some grub before or after a USC football game. Indulge in one of the restaurant’s hefty burgers or enjoy shareable bites like wings, fries, or pita chips and spinach dip with a group of friends. The patio is the optimal spot to sip on a cocktail and draft beer on tap, though it can get quite crowded here on weekend evenings.

From the team behind Chichen Itza is another standout Mexican food stand inside the Mercado la Paloma marketplace. Holbox serves simple seafood classics that call to mind the coastal regions of Mexico. The tacos and ceviches are absolute must-order dishes, while the oysters are also incredibly fresh. Despite the casual food hall setting, Holbox also hosts a weekly 8-course tasting menu dinners on Thursdays and Fridays.

Family-owned Mexican eatery Chichen Itza has been surviving Yucatan-style Mexican dishes since 2001. The stall, located in the Mercado La Paloma community marketplace, is just a short walk from campus. One can’t go wrong with the cochinita pibil — juicy, shredded pork marinated in achiote, sour orange juice, and spices before it’s cooked in banana leaves. Proceed with caution with the habanero hot sauce; though it’s a great accompaniment to the tacos, it definitely packs a punch.