Classic cars on display in downtown Dade City
By Kari Sypniewski & Katie Gwinn – Staff Writers
Although Dade City may be just a tiny town to some of the students here at Saint Leo University, there is always something to do. Many students complain that “Saint Leo is in the middle of nowhere.” However, the town of Dade City has many unique things to offer that are unbeknownst to students.
First, there are several restaurants and little cafes in town that have received good reviews. On Q Smokehouse Grill is one of the closest restaurants to Saint Leo University and many students openly comment on how good the food is and frequently tell their peers to try it. If you like Barbeque, you should definitely check it out. Olgas Bakery and Deli on 7th Street is a family owned bakery that is said to have the best donuts in town. They are also well-known for their sandwiches and other baked goods. For those who like little cafes and coffee shops, The Coffee Mug is perfect. It’s a perfect little place for a coffee date. They also offer sandwiches, soups and music that everyone can enjoy. This place is not far from Leo, on Meridan Avenue right in the city.
If you’re looking for things to do during the day, there is always the Abbey Golf Course. It’s also available for a reasonable price. Its location, however, is its main attraction: it’s right across the street from Saint Leo University so that students are able to walk there.
By now, nearly everyone has heard about Tom’s, the new bar of choice for many Saint Leo students. It is said to have good deal on drinks–if you’re of age, of course–and decent food. It is not far from Saint Leo’s campus, located just off of Highway 301. In addition to Tom’s, what is a Saint Leo tradition if it does not include Ralphs? This has been the place to go for years, as many people go there after a long week for a drink and some good food. Saint Leo professors are said to frequent Ralph’s, as well as students and locals, because it is a great place for socialization and a good time.
Another event that is new this year to Saint Leo is the community engagement event in Dade City called “First Thursdays.” The event takes place on the first Thursday of every month. and is sponsored by Beef O’ Brady’s. First Thursdays offers Saint Leo information tables as well as local information tables, live music, and the game of corn hole. The purpose of this event is for Saint Leo students, faculty, and staff to interact with local people from Dade City and San Antonio in order to form a stronger relationship in the community.
One of the most famous events that Dade City has to offer is the Car Show that takes place on the first Saturday of every month. Many people from Dade City or neighboring towns bring their classic cars and show them off and talk about them.
All too often the phrase of choice around Saint Leo is that “there’s nothing to do.” However, the town of Dade City offers many unique places that students can enjoy.
