Over 100 JMU students were surveyed about their favorite restaurants in the area. They were asked about dining options in four categories: best places to take a date, best places to watch a game, best places to take your family, and best ethnic places. Here are the mouth-watering results.
(540) 574-4901
If you’re looking for authentic Japanese food, Kyoto is the place for you. With entertaining chefs who prepare your meal right in front of you, this restaurant brings new meaning to playing with your food.
“The chefs make a fire infused volcano out of a mound of rice,” says senior Erin Hill. “It makes dining out fun.” Since opening in 2001, this restaurant has been a popular hot spot for JMU students and Harrisonburg locals alike. Kyoto offers lunch specials including dollar sushi. Large hibachi grills are set in the middle of tables that seat eight, making this restaurant a fun choice for friends and family.
(540) 433-3189 or (540) 564-0386
For cuisine that will take you south of the border, venture over to El Charro. The restaurant features authentic Mexican food and atmosphere, complete with colorful murals and sombreros. El Charro is another locally owned and operated restaurant that has made its home in the Valley for the past 15 years. Customers’ favorites include the chimichangas, taco salad, enchilada supreme and the featured combination meals. “My favorite thing to order is the fajita burrito because it’s such a large meal that I can save some for later,” says El Charro waiter Javier Diaz.