Seniors — your high school experience just got a whole lot sweeter as you unlock privileges to go off campus for free periods and lunches. As a senior and an extremely indecisive person, I understand the stress of choosing where to go off campus for a snack and study spot. But don’t worry — I’ve got you covered. Below is my carefully crafted list of the best off-campus spots (you’re welcome)!
Barton’s bagels
There’s a reason Bartons Baleges is a Marin favorite, and lucky for us, it’s just 10-15 minutes from campus! The efficient service is ideal for a quick snack, especially if you are in a time crunch (because losing senior privileges over a bagel would be tragic). From chocolate, blueberry, sesame and asiago, the store has a bagel for everyone’s cravings, along with numerous toppings to choose from. Once you’ve got your food, soak up the sun at the outdoor seating right outside. Additionally, if you still need your caffeine fix, Longway Coffee is right next door! One thing to keep in mind — parking. If you are in a rush, don’t rely on there being an easy spot. Sometimes it takes me driving around for a few minutes to find a space and oftentimes, I have to walk. But if you have the time, the elite combo of a Bartons Bagel and a Longway Chai is my favorite pick-me-up for the rest of the day.
Redhill: includes Peets, Hot Wok, The Hub, Swirl, Safeway, etc.
Redhill is one of the most common locations for lunch and free periods due to its abundance of food options and convenience. Being only 10 minutes from campus and being packed with options like Peets, Hot Wok, The Hub, Swirl and Safeway (including Starbucks), Redhill is guaranteed to appeal to everyone. Personally, I love The Hub’s salads, Peet’s coffee, and Hot Wok’s orange chicken — but whether you are craving a sweet treat or a burger — Redhill has got you covered. Another perk is the availability of parking. You will never have to stress about not getting a spot; the convenience is truly top-tier. With its central location, Redhill is the perfect place to grab food and still have plenty of time before class. Quick, easy and packed with options — it’s no wonder this spot is a senior favorite.
Pink Owl Coffee
Pink Owl Coffee is a cozy heaven only 15-20 minutes away from San Domenico, perfect for a study sesh. Their comfy couches, cushioned chairs and large table space make it the ideal place to pretend you’ve been studying all week when really, you’re cramming for the test next period — (guilty). The decor is straight out of a Pinterest board, with black furniture, bright- mainly pink- accent colors, green plants, fairy lights, unique wall art and more. Along with the next-level decorations and ambiance, the food and drinks do not disappoint! They have a variety of lattes, seasonal drinks and teas, along with pastries, bagels, toast and sandwiches. The only downside is that, like most places in Marin, it is pricey. But sometimes the $6.00 for a Vanilla Latte is just the price you have to pay to make it through the rest of the school day. Looking for somewhere to crash and study during free periods or long lunch? Pink Owl Coffee has you covered.
Woodlands
This family-operated market, located in Kentfield (15 minutes from SD), offers a delicious lunch option! Their main attraction (in my opinion) is their make-your-own sandwiches. I have been to Woodlands for a warm custom sandwich more times than I can count in my free period because nothing satisfies my hunger quite the same. Other than sandwiches, they have a wide variety of snacks, pizza, sushi, drinks and more. Whether you need a quick bite or a full meal, they have got you covered. A word of warning: be aware of “the lunch rush.” Since it is across the street from Kent Middle School, the store can quickly become packed with 7th and 8th graders. So if your free period falls before lunch or you go during lunch, be prepared to navigate through a sea of middle schoolers swarming the small grocery store. Despite the occasional adolescent invasion, Woodlands is a trusty and delicious market that never disappoints.
Comforts
Comforts in San Anselmo, only a couple blocks from Barton’s Bagels, serve as a local favorite. Their Chicken Oakoson and Chinese Chicken Salad have taken the community by storm, quickly becoming the most popular Marin-mom catering food — and for good reason. The delicious flavors outshine anything like it. Beyond the classics, they have a wide variety of baked goods, desserts, sandwiches and soups. My latest obsession? The Chicken Oakoson sandwich is a crispy and warm delight. Other than the delicious food, their decor is warm and inviting. With plenty of natural sunlight, light wood accents, and cute accessories, the interior truly lives up to its name. Plus, the outdoor seating is plentiful, so unless you roll in with an unusually large group, you’ll have no trouble finding a sunny spot to sit. If you are looking for a filling iconic lunch — this is your spot!
