Graduation goals: The USC foodie bucket list


Time is ticking for the soon-to-be graduates out there with only four weeks left of school. Whether you’re from Los Angeles or not, there is no doubt that this city serves up some of the best eats in the world. There’s something for everyone, from the pizza snob to the coffee connoisseur to the brunch fanatic. Here are a list of my top ten places that you just have to visit before you graduate and leave this paradise.

  1. Urth Caffé

This L.A. staple has multiple locations in Santa Monica, West Hollywood, Beverly Hills and in L.A.’s Arts District. With the nearest being just a ten minute drive from USC, you have no excuse not to go!

Photo courtesy of Maila H., Yelp

Photo courtesy of Maila H., Yelp

  1. Katsuya

Calling all sushi lovers! Famous for their spicy tuna with crispy rice, this sushi hot spot will quickly become one of your favorites. The best part? USC students receive a 15 percent discount. (Don’t forget your student I.D. though!)

Photo courtesy of Katsuya Hollywood, Yelp

Photo courtesy of Katsuya Hollywood, Yelp

  1. Malibu Farm

One of the most picturesque restaurants that L.A. has to offer, this one is well worth the drive up the Pacific Coast Highway.

Photo courtest of Josephine T., Yelp

Photo courtest of Josephine T., Yelp

  1. Lemonade

If this is your final year at USC and you haven’t been to Lemonade, you must be living under a rock. Located in the center of our gorgeous campus, this is one of the best on-campus eats! You can even use dining dollars!

Photo courtesy of Lemonade, Yelp

Photo courtesy of Lemonade, Yelp

  1. Sugarfish

I’m not kidding when I say that this fish melts in your mouth. Definitely don’t want to leave Los Angeles without trying this sushi staple. Trust me, when you leave L.A., you will be craving it from miles away.

Photo courtesy of Ben L. on yelp.com

Photo courtesy of Ben L. on yelp.com

  1. Perch

This restaurant offers the best view in Los Angeles. Located on the 15th floor, enjoy your food with panoramic views of one of the best cities in the world.  

Photo courtesy of Diego M., Yelp

Photo courtesy of Diego M., Yelp

  1. Cafe Gratitude

Feeling healthy? Head to Cafe Gratitude, one of Los Angeles’ most sustainable restaurants that offers a host of gourmet options, from raw Hawaiian pizza to eggplant parmesan panini to a homemade sushi bowl.

Miranda Mazariegos | Daily Trojan

  1. Eggslut

Yes, you read that right. This is one of L.A.’s hidden gems, located just a short drive from campus in the heart of Grand Central Market. Beware: The line on weekends could be up to two hours, so try and make a trip during the week. I promise that their egg sandwiches won’t disappoint.

Photo courtesy of Jam Y. on yelp.com

Photo courtesy of Jam Y., Yelp

  1. Alfred Coffee

If you’re sick of Starbucks, it’s time to venture out to either the West Hollywood, Silver Lake or Brentwood locations for the best iced latte you will ever have in your life. It’s worth skipping class for this coffee place.

Jackie Mayuga | Daily Trojan

Jackie Mayuga | Daily Trojan

  1. Salt & Straw

Nothing better than an ice cream cone on sunny L.A. afternoon as we head into the final stretch of the semester.

Photo courtesy of Jam Y., Yelp

Photo courtesy of Jam Y., Yelp

Regardless of whether if you’ve only got three years or one month left of school, these ten Los Angeles eats definitely deserve a trip!