The Segundo Dining Commons has been voted Best DC on campus and is your best bet for an all-you-can eat meal. It is far superior to its counterparts in Tercero and Cuarto in a number of different ways.

“The Segundo DC has been reliable to me this entire year and it has rarely, if ever, disappointed,” said Nathan Mohapatra, a first-year cognitive science major.

The Segundo DC is located right off La Rue Road and across the street from the ARC and Pavilion. Immediately upon entering you notice how spread out everything is, leaving more than enough room for spacious walkways and an abundance of seating options. Customers need not worry about bumping into passersby with a full plate of food and shattering the elegant DC dishes like a typical freshman frequently would.

Unlike its competitors, Segundo just has a certain ambience that feels welcoming and relaxed. The background music playing on the speakers, despite the questionable song choices at times, is the perfect tone for the setting — not too loud and invasive, but just audible enough to create the appropriate amount of white noise.

Now let’s get to the most important part of this review: the food. Segundo’s menu seems to have every type of food under the sun and features cuisine from several different cultures. Many would argue that its breakfast selection is its best offering, with a hearty spread of fruits and yogurts, oatmeal, cereal and of course the famous breakfast burritos and omelets. Not to be outdone, Segundo is also heralded for its yummy late-night cookies, which are always in high demand every Monday through Thursday as the clock nears midnight. For all other meals in between, there are the usual suspects of pizza, hamburgers and Mongolian BBQ to supplement everything else that’s being served. Oh, and did I forget to mention the dessert stand? All the freshly baked goods, from brownies and cookies to cake and muffins, are sure to satisfy even the most extreme sweet tooth.

“The food at Segundo DC is consistently superior to the food at the other two DCs,” Mohapatra said. “At the Segundo DC, the workers prepare meals with a love and care that can be tasted.”

Overall, the Segundo DC is the most consistent and dependable dining commons on campus.

Written by: Brendan Ogburn — sports@theaggie.org

In the quiet town of Davis, there exists a fairytale-like harmony — the birds chirp tunefully, the squirrels humbly beg for one of your chips and the otters are the trickiest hide-and-go-seekers there ever were.

Under all of this quiet wonder, however, gobbles a deep, dark and terrorful force: turkeys. Difficult to approach and sometimes unfriendly, turkeys roam around campus and downtown, often in packs known as rafters. If you find yourself in their presence, they may give you an aimless and possibly malicious stare. They might even pretend you are not there — really, the self-satisfied egos of turkeys. They must think of themselves as movie stars because too often do they turn our little town into a modern set for Alfred Hitchcock’s “The Birds.”

“I woke up one morning and looked out of my cul-de-sac-facing window to see about five turkeys walking down the street,” said Maddison Gurrola, a fifth-year nutritional science major. “Thinking nothing of it, I went about my morning routine. Walking out of the front door, I saw my neighbors house directly across the street, covered in turkeys. There must have been roughly 60 on this house, all over the roof and front yard.”

Worst of all is if they threaten you and your car. This is a known quirk of our town ever since a resident was antagonized by Downtown Tom, the legendary turkey that terrorized Davis in 2016.

“After getting in my car, this turkey started circling the car,” said Tony Toribio, a fourth-year mechanical engineering major. “I started my car and he went in front of me and prevented me from pulling forward. Then I went in reverse to avoid him and he ran behind my car and blocked that way. He was circling the car until another car showed up and distracted him. Once I could get away he turned around and chased me for another two blocks. At a stop sign, I lost the turkey for good when he began chasing a Unitrans bus.”

If this sounds like a scene from an upcoming Jurassic Park film, it may not surprise you to hear that velociraptors may have looked more like giant turkeys than dinosaurs. Stay safe out there.

Written by: Matt Marcure — science@theaggie.org

It’d be surprising if people didn’t yet know that Philz Coffee took over the once-empty storefront on 2nd Street. What was a dark, dusty space has now become a bustling and inviting coffee shop. Ever since Philz’s introduction to downtown Davis, countless students and residents alike have rejoiced at the sights and smells that come with this popular and charming coffee chain. Occupying a large space and decorated in your standard Davis decor — such as string lights, succulents and bicycles — it is hard not to smile when you hear that inviting, “Hi, how can I help you today?” from your friendly neighborhood barista across the counter. Whether you’re feeling a mint mojito or an iced green tea, Philz has the drink for you.

“I think my favorite thing about Philz is that it has a nice atmosphere,” said Hannah McDonald, a second-year cognitive science major. “The decor is nice and the coffee tastes great.”

In addition to its chic, modern sitting area, Philz offers over 20 customized blends of coffee, ensuring that your taste buds will be satisfied. The “cups of love,” as they’re called, are all served in to-go cups with the signature Philz logo. Seriously, you won’t want to miss out on all that Philz has to offer.

Written by: Kaelyn Tuermer-Lee — city@theaggie.org

Who doesn’t like to savor a good crepe topped with fresh strawberries, brown sugar and Nutella — especially when you have free coffee refills to brighten up your morning? Crepeville has a prime location on 3rd Street in downtown Davis, right off of campus.

Besides serving really good coffee and, of course, crepes, the menu has a wide selection of scrumptious food to satiate your hunger. If it’s that day of the week when you’re feeling healthy, browse the assortment of fresh menu options and get those nutrients. For other days when you’re craving something to satisfy your sweet tooth, there’s Nutella, strawberries and cinnamon.

“I come here a lot and have tried almost every item on the menu, and they are all fantastic,” said Raegan Price, a second-year theater and dance major. “Their side of potatoes is magical.”

Hannah Torromeo, a fifth-year design major, also talked about why she especially likes this cafe.

“I like staying at Crepeville after breakfast to study, and their wifi is good — they let you stay for as long as you need to, unlike some other places in downtown,” Torromeo said. “Most items on the menu are filling, and it’s a pretty good deal, too.”

The ambience of the cafe itself creates a comfortable, laid-back environment and thus is a perfect respite for stressed college students. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed Sunday brunch with friends, a quick coffee or a green salad with a refreshing drink, Crepeville has it all.

Written by: Rabiya Oberoi — city@theaggie.org

Nestled on E Street in the heart of downtown Davis in a little bright red cabin is Best of Davis’ Best Chinese Food, the Dumpling House. The Dumpling House opened its doors on January 25, 2010. It was originally London Fish ’N Chips, and the restaurant still contains elements of its founding establishment, including a sign with the previous name on it.

The Dumpling House is especially famous for its unique menu options. The restaurant still serves fish and chips and deep fried Snickers bars, an ode to the original restaurant founded before it. The Dumpling House also pays tribute to its name by offering the option to call ahead and purchase frozen dumplings in bulk for a significant discount compared to traditional stores. The restaurant has also added wait service to the establishment instead of just having counter service.

First-year economics major Kasey Katayama commented on her first impression of the Dumpling House as a newcomer in Davis.

“My hometown in SoCal has a ton of great Chinese restaurants, and I was really missing that when I moved up to Davis to start my freshman year, so my roommate and I went downtown to look for good Chinese food, and we found this place,” Katayama said. “I really like how many options the menu has.”

The Dumpling House also donated proceeds to relief for the Haiti earthquake disaster in 2010, proving that this little Chinese restaurant in the middle of Davis knows how to balance quality and heart.

Written by: AJ Seymour –– sports@theaggie.org

Despite the ongoing (and seemingly never-ending) construction, the Activities and Recreation Center — or “the ARC” — remains most students’ favorite place to exercise.

The ARC is home to a climbing wall, cardio and weightlifting areas and programming such as dance classes and martial arts, but it is the convenience factor that won the ARC the gold.

Nicholas Carter, a second-year evolution and ecology major, agrees that the ARC is the best place to exercise, despite the fact that his home at West Village has a gym for residents.

“I pick the ARC because it’s close to both a dining hall and classrooms, so I can fit a workout into my day easily,” Carter said. “I’ve adjusted my schedule so I no longer go during times of peak traffic, and I think that’s made my experience a lot better.”

Maggie Bayer, a second-year human development major and bikini competitor, chooses the ARC as her designated workout place because it has the most equipment options. Judged on her muscle mass, body proportion and symmetry and muscle conditioning, Bayer appreciates that the ARC has the most machines for muscle isolation.

“I also feed off of other people’s energy when working out, so I like how there are a lot of people there also working out,” Bayer said. “It keeps me energized.”

The ARC isn’t unique to UC Davis. Enrolled UC students can take advantage of any of the ARCs across the UC system. One might even find themselves working out alongside Kobe Bryant at UC Irvine’s ARC.

Whether you’re there to win a bikini competition or to not feel as guilty about that TxMx burrito you inhaled after class, stay on top of your 2018 health and fitness goals at the ARC. During the school year, the center is open from 5 a.m. to 12 a.m. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturdays and 9 a.m. to 12 a.m. on Sundays.

Written by: Liz Jacobson — sports@theaggie.org

The “Wunderbar” or “G Street,” as it’s referred to locally, is known for its wide range of events and activities, including live music, barbeque, a Monday pub quiz, funk night and a pool tournament.

It may seem off-putting at first that, upon entering the venue, a metal-detector wand is used to check for contraband, but it quickly becomes clear that management is committed to the safety of their guests and cares about the atmosphere they provide. Once inside, customers are greeted by a friendly staff and enjoy a comfortable experience complemented by pool tables, darts, arcade games, long seating tables and a full bar with two bartenders and a barback. The ambiance is reminiscent of a German pub: unpretentious and friendly. There’s no doubt it’s a dive, but it’s a dive with character and charm.

Aggie staff visited on Cinco de Mayo and enjoyed the festive atmosphere. The service was quick and attentive even during the rush that one might expect on a Saturday night at 11 p.m. The patrons were an eclectic mix of individuals from Davis and surrounding cities. The general manager informed us that they often see customers from Sacramento and Woodland.

The reasonably priced menu features burgers, sandwiches, “Smokin’ Ewe” barbecue, ribs and tacos as well as a featured “Pork Belly Macaroni & Cheese.” Cole Baca, the head of security and shift manager, said “The lamb leg sandwich is by far my favorite dish.”

Popular drinks at the Wunderbar include its staple beer, Pabst Blue Ribbon, and a special house drink called a Skittles Shot, which is a blend of watermelon, vodka and liqueur in a luminescent blue shot glass. It also carries a wide selection of bottled German beers and Jagermeister on tap. Don’t miss happy hour: Monday through Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. and all day Sunday.

Written by: George Liao and Parker Nevin — features@theaggie.org

Of the Indian food choices in Davis, Raja’s Tandoor gets widespread recognition from students thanks to its proximity to campus, friendly service and affordability. Conveniently located on the corner of 3rd and A streets, students can stop by Raja’s for its popular “healthy Indian food” buffet every day from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Raja’s offers traditional Indian dishes such as chicken tikka masala and turmeric chicken curry as well as vegan options, including coconut vegetable curry, lentils and chickpeas. Customers can choose between a menu of individual entrees or the $7.95 all-you-can-eat buffet.

“The reason that I like Raja’s a lot is because as a vegetarian it’s hard to find places where you can get a cheap, filling meal,” said Harrison Morrow, a fourth-year wildlife, fish and conservation biology major. “Raja’s really fulfills that because it’s 8 bucks for a buffet and they have a bunch of vegan and vegetarian options, which is really nice. I live in a house right next to it, which is also really convenient.”

The restaurant also caters to students by offering stamp cards for frequent visitors and providing opportunities for fundraising events.

Raja’s owner Taranbir Chowdhury is famous around Davis for his welcoming smile and daily presence in the restaurant — another attribute of Raja’s that keeps customers coming back.

This is the third consecutive year that Raja’s has won the “Best Indian Food” category in Best of Davis.

Written by: Olivia Rockeman — features@theaggie.org

The CoHo has many options for food choices, but TxMx Grill seems to be the overwhelming student favorite. It has burritos, quesadillas, nachos and tacos, all for a reasonable price.

Mikaela Tancioco, a fourth-year cognitive science major, is an avid customer of TxMx Grill.

“TxMx has super affordable burritos for students that is made with fresh produce and meat that is perfectly marinated,” Tancioco said. “Hands down the best Mexican food you’ll find on the Davis campus.”

TxMx often has the longest line of all the CoHo eateries, but that’s for a reason: people love it.

Eric Nogueiro, a fourth-year managerial economics major and a CoHo employee, eats at TxMx almost every day.

“I have food credit so it’s a lot cheaper, but actually their carnitas are tasty and the burritos are a good size,” Nogueiro said.

TxMx is a great place to go for a filling lunch or just for a snack.

Written By: CaraJoy Kleinrock — arts@theaggie.org

Mikuni is the perfect restaurant for any occasion, whether it’s a date, a reunion or a family night out. The restaurant serves delicious Japanese food with a full bar and outdoor dining.

While college students usually seek cheap comfort food on a day-to-day basis, sometimes we want something fancier. Mikuni’s casual ambiance and plethora of high-quality sashimi makes it an ideal spot for a special dinner — completely inviting and not overly casual.

“Mikuni had a big name before it came to Davis,” said operations manager Michael Wang. “We’re probably the most sought after, for example, if you bring your parents into town for a nice meal. There aren’t a lot of places here you can do that.”

Located in the Davis Commons, Mikuni is well-known to Davis residents and especially university students. Being just a short walk from campus, it can be a nice place to have lunch with friends in between classes. For those who dislike fish, Mikuni provides a wide range of other food options including bento boxes, udon noodles and rice plates.

“A lot of people who work here also eat here,” Wang said. “I think of it as mom’s cooking. All this time you’re really used to this taste, and you can’t find it anywhere else. It’s in our secret sauces and the fish is the same, just good-quality fish. The sauces are what’s going to be different in most restaurants.”

Check Mikuni’s website for hours so you can plan your next visit.

Written by: Becky Lee — features@theaggie.org

Picnic Day is perhaps the most important day of the year at UC Davis. Established in 1909, it began as a humble event replete with the enormous hats and corsets of the early 20th century. Now it is the largest student-run event in the country — with more comfortable clothing.

“The sunny weather and the positive vibes all around make for a really joyous celebration of Davis culture,” said Katherine Mushik, a first-year international relations major.

Perhaps the most memorable part of the day is the famed dachshund race, also known as the Doxie Derby. There’s nothing quite like watching thousands of students — many of whom are missing their own pets at home — pour into the bleachers of the gym to enjoy the sight of five tiny dogs racing each other as if their lives depended on it. Occasionally, one of the dogs will back out of the competition at the last minute, which usually ends with a crowd-shy dachshund curling up on the floor for a quick snooze while his compatriots bid for the winning time.

But Picnic Day isn’t all about competition. It’s also a time for the university to showcase its different academic departments, bring people together with food trucks and games and draw potential students into the vibrant Aggie community. It’s a day like no other, both in scale and in spirit, and will certainly continue to be enjoyable for years to come.

Written by: Rebecca Bihn-Wallace — features@ucdavis.edu

Itching to get that perfect selfie with the perfect lighting and backdrop? Why not head over to the Arboretum, UC Davis’ collection of botanical gardens. Established in 1936, the series of beautiful collections occupies 100 acres along the banks of Putah Creek.

No matter your taste, the Arboretum has a space to suit you. The California Foothill Collection showcases a range of shrubs and trees native to the foothills here in the Central Valley. The collection even features several 200-year-old oaks and pines.

Morning joggers might like the space provided by the East Asian Collection. Its open lawns and charming views of Lake Spafford create an invigorating yet soothing atmosphere. In the early spring, cherry blossoms awaken from their winter slumber to bring the space to life.

“I really like the Redwood Grove because it is not too far from campus and it is really peaceful,” said Javier Fuentes, a first-year neurobiology, physiology and behavior major. “I come here to study quite a bit.”

Whether you’re working to reach your latest fitness goal, studying for an upcoming midterm or simply want to take that bomb selfie that all of your friends are going to love, the Arboretum is the perfect place to do it. Get out of the house and enjoy this special space that only Davis has to offer.

Written by: Isaac Flores — arts@theaggie.org

The Eggheads once again reign supreme as UC Davis’s best public art. Introduced to the campus beginning in 1991, the Eggheads have established themselves as perhaps the most unique part of the UC Davis campus.

“They’re a cool way of keeping our campus from being a generic university,” said fourth-year political science and English double major Greg Yerumyan.

Six Eggheads can be found scattered throughout campus. Starting at King Hall, you can find two communicating eggheads, See No Evil and Hear No Evil, on a grassy knoll in front of the law school.

On the lawn behind Mrak Hall, an upside-down laughing head greets guests and keeps an Eye on Mrak, as it’s named. In front of the library lies Bookhead, perhaps the sculpture with the most interaction. Kissing or rubbing the head of Bookhead is supposed to bring good luck to students during midterms and finals.

Another pair, Yin and Yang, stand in front of Wright Hall’s main theater. The final Egghead, Stargazer, sits near the brick sign on the East Lawn that marks the original entrance to the campus.

Many students seem to be of the opinion that the Eggheads, while quirky, are quite weird.

“I think someone kind of looked in their fridge and saw an egg and was like, ‘I’m going to make a sculpture out of that,’” said third-year biological sciences major Angelina Mitchell.

Written by: Taylor LaPoint — features@theaggie.org

Known for their funny and relatable facial expressions, many students first see the UC Davis Eggheads when they are touring the campus or darting between buildings during orientation.

Created by Robert Arneson, who was a UC Davis faculty member, the Eggheads have been a UC Davis staple since 1991. The five statues that make up “The Egghead Series” can be found scattered throughout campus. Ceramic sculptures of heads may sound simple, but their spirited personalities and artistic presence make them an Aggie favorite.

Bookhead, located in front of Peter J. Shields Library, once again stole the title of the best egghead this year. Bookhead sits near the library doors with its nose literally in a book and its wide eyes forever scanning the pages. With finals right around the corner, Bookhead’s win is no surprise. Camila Zaher, a fourth-year biological psychology major, found the statue to symbolize something we are all quite familiar with as students.
“I think this symbolizes student exhaustion,” Zaher said.

Zaher claimed that this statue is not only about exhaustion after hard work as a student, but that it represents what we all want at the end of a long night studying.

“It’s like, let’s open the textbook and hope everything transfers to my brain please,” Zaher said.

Bookhead is often kissed or touched by students for good luck during midterms and finals — make sure to stop by and see it this quarter.

Written by: Cassidy Kays — city@theaggie.org

Despite facing competition from other bike shops in the area, the Bike Barn has been voted “Best Bike Shop” in Davis for the third year in a row.

Located right at the center of campus, the Bike Barn is noted for its convenience, especially for first-year students. Although known mainly for assisting students with bike repair, the Bike Barn also sells bikes and bike parts and has a whole fleet of bikes for rental as well.  

Betty Zhou, a third-year biochemistry major, visited the Bike Barn to get a spare tube. Zhou noted that the Bike Barn is convenient to get to and offers reasonable prices.

“I come here whenever I need to get a flat tire fixed or to get all sorts of bike items,” Zhou said.  

The Bike Barn hires students, training them for anything they may face when dealing with bikes. With eight repair stands, the Bike Barn has the ability to meet the needs of a biking campus, helping to repair approximately 10,000 bikes every year.

Joseph Gendreau, a third-year electrical engineer, works as the rental manager for the Bike Barn.

“You help us pay our rent,” Gendreau said. “We help you with your bike.”

Written by: Justin Chau — city@theaggie.org