You’ve scoured Syracuse University’s campus, discovering all the hidden gems the school has to offer. What’s next? Maybe you’re a record-collecting maven looking to score some rare vinyl, or you’re a self-proclaimed foodie in the search of good restaurants. Whether you’re looking for the next statement piece to add to your closet or love jumping into a mosh pit at live shows, your new favorite place might be just a few blocks off campus.

 

For the music junkie:

Located in the heart of Armory Square, The Sound Garden may not have an impressive exterior, but it offers a unique music buying experience, said sophomore biology major Mikala Stubley.

 ‘It’s just a brick façade covered with upcoming album posters,’ Stubley said. ‘But when you’re inside, you encounter aisles and aisles of fresh music and movies.’

Since 1997, the independent record store has packed its shelves with an eclectic variety of albums for all listeners.

‘You can find CDs from that band you were into in 8th grade but could never find outside of iTunes,’ Stubley said, ‘Or that obscure side project by your favorite band you were looking for.’

Bands and artists touring through the Syracuse area also frequent the indie-vibed warehouse, stopping by to snap pictures and sign autographs for fans. It’s a feature that seals the deal for Stubley.

‘What more could you ask for in a record store?’

 

For the fashionista:

If you’re into the old-school feel of vintage clothing or just trying to get on board with latest fashion trends, Armory Square’s Modern Pop Culture is a boutique worth checking out.

‘I carry styles that are in style as well as some classic items,’ said owner Nathan Schafer. ‘There’s something for everyone as well as for all occasions.’

Schafer also takes pride in maintaining an atmosphere meant to be more like ‘hanging out with shopping on the side.’

The unique selection available at Modern Pop Culture will keep fashion-conscious SU students happy, and the prices will keep their purses from feeling too light, Schafer said.

‘Prices are very affordable,’ Schafer said, ‘People tell me that it’s cheaper to shop here than at other vintage stores they’ve been to.’

 

For the coffee house lounger:

Boasting a health-conscious vegan menu, Strong Hearts Café on East Genesee Street brings something new to the table.

‘Strong Hearts is a great place to eat if you’re looking to go somewhere slightly off the beaten path,’ said Maya Kosoff, a sophomore magazine journalism major. ‘It’s not exactly college cuisine, but it’s close enough to campus and affordable.’

The café’s specialty is its 20 varieties of milkshakes, named after various musicians and other inspirational figures by the Strong Hearts crew. Kosoff said the menu offers something for everyone.

‘I’m not vegan myself,’ Kosoff said, ‘But I swear by their fake BLT and Carl Sagan milkshakes.’

 

For the concert-goer:

Situated on Thompson Road, alternative music venue Lost Horizon attracts 16- to 24-year-old music-lovers, said Syracuse Shows booker Matt Dunn.

He said they aim to find bands that people truly want to listen to.

‘We started as kids, we work for the kids, we listen to the kids, and we entertain the kids,’ Dunn said. ‘From us, to you. Together, we succeed. ‘

Dunn said this fall’s slate of shows lineup includes bands New Found Glory and The Acacia Strain.

 

For the foodie:

Students don’t have to travel far for a taste of south-of-the-border cuisine.

Westcott’s intimate Alto Cinco offers a modern spin on classic Mexican dishes, including burritos and enchiladas.

‘Everything is always fresh, and the food never disappoints,’ said Alex Falck, a sophomore in the College of Arts and Sciences. ‘It can get a little cramped at times, but it’s worth it.’

Falck said Alto Cinco flaunts a perk for SU students: delivery to campus.

‘If you don’t want to deal with all of the hustle and bustle, you can just get

food delivered to your dorm,’ he said. ‘This place is definitely worth checking out.’

ervanrhe@syr.edu

Published on August 23, 2011 at 12:00 pm

Contact Erik: ervanrhe@syr.edu | @therealvandyman