We like Magnolia Cafe South's giant buttermilk pancakes ($3.50 for a short stack) almost as much as the pterodactyl-esque dinosaur hanging from the ceiling.

For a quick kick any time of the day, try the Turbo ($3.25), an iced coffee drink guaranteed to crank your tractor, at Jo's Coffee. The crazy characters--uh, employees--at Amy's Ice Creams serve several fun and funky scoops ($3-$5).

Request an outdoor table at Shady Grove. You can't lose with their spicy green chile cheeseburger ($6.59). Pizza joints thrive in college towns (duh), and Frank and Angie's Pizzeria consistently ranks as one of the best. We like the 10-inch Pavarotti ($8.95), a thin-crust pizza made with portobello mushrooms, pesto, spinach, and feta, among other toppings.

Start dipping your chips in the peppery salsa at Vivo, a contemporary take on Tex-Mex. While waiting for your chile enchiladas ($9.95), walk around and check out the vibrant artwork and atmosphere.

above, left: Request an outdoor table at Vivo, a Tex-Mex restaurant.