In a previous work of remarkable genius, I alluded to some of the hidden treasures that Brunswick has to offer. For this week's edition of David's wisdom, I will delve more in depth into some of these locations, with the hope that you all will find as much joy in them as I have.
Grand City Variety: In addition to having a remarkable selection of, well, pretty much anything, Grand City also boasts a fine eating establishment on the premises. If one can get past the immediate fact that the average patron age hovers near the triple digits, Grand City's menu is actually quite good?prices are very cheap, and the food is basic but well made. I personally have never had anything but the breakfast meal, but it is fantastic?for under $5, you can get eggs, toast, hash browns, meat, and coffee. The coffee is strong and plentiful, the meat is greasy, and did I mention its under $5? A great choice for those days when you just can't get up in time for brunch.
Uncle Tom's Market: Beer, porn, tobacco, and snacks. Is there anything else you need for a Wednesday night? I think not.
Jenney Station Tobacconist: Even if you don't smoke?and if you go to Bowdoin, odds are you probably don't?Jenney Station can still hold some appeal for you. It's a cozy little place, with extremely friendly workers, comfortable chairs, and a fine selection of all kinds of tobacco-related products. For those of us who do enjoy the Nicotiana tabacum, there is a wide selection, ranging from standard American brands to more exotic varieties. In addition, if you're there for more than five minutes, you are guaranteed to hear at least one interesting and long-winded story from the proprietor.
China Rose: Best hangover food, bar none. There is nothing quite as good after a rough night out than gorging oneself on cheap, poorly made but all-you-can-eat Chinese food, then returning home and alternating between the couch and the toilet for the rest of the day. By 5 o'clock that night, you're ready to go out again. (P.S. Stay away from anything resembling vanilla custard?in general, a pretty solid policy for any all-you-can-eat Chinese restaurant).
Dead River: Most of you probably know Dead River as the gas station on the way to Cook's Corner. What you may not know is it is also the location of the River Run Deli, yet another place for greasy, cheap, and good food. Where else can you get two large one-topping pizzas for $11? Nowhere, that's where. So what if the grease drips off in rivers and the mushrooms look like they've been previously eaten?as the old saying goes, "Pizza is like sex...Even when it's bad, it's good." If you want to play it safe and be a wimp, their subs use fresh vegetables and meat that doesn't look like it was once a house pet, and they are also quite cheap. As a side dish, try the Snacksations(tm)?you may not know what's in them, but you just can't stop eating them.
Bohemian Coffee House: Many students I know already frequent the Boho, but many more should. Great coffee, great atmosphere, great staff?it's like a coffee shop in a real city, minus the pretension. Go there enough and they'll let you name your own drink?or at least humor you while you keep tipping them.
Various snacks at 7-11: I obviously do not need to explain the merits of 7-11, but I will offer a few recommendations that may not be obvious. Several reliable sources swear by their pre-made sausage, egg, and cheese sandwiches as a late night (read: drunken) snack. Personally, I find the Go-Go Taquitos divine, particularly the jalapeno and cream cheese variety?it may sound rather unappealing, but it's so good. Kind of like crack?it just doesn't sound very good, but then you try it, and you just can't stop.