The Freshmen 15

Want some ideas for places to eat, shop, and buy your groceries? Check out this list of 15 places in the Greater Cincinnati area. Some are unique to our city, while others are just downright delicious and fun to visit.

1. Graeter's

Known for their Black Raspberry Chip ice cream, Graeter's is the favorite ice cream of Oprah Winfrey. The nearest Graeter's is located in Hyde Park Square on Erie Avenue, just 10 minutes from campus.

2. Aglamesis

Opened in the early 1900s, this Cincinnati ice cream parlor produces hand-churned ice cream and delicious homemade candies that everyone will love. The original parlor, located in Oakley Square on Madison Road, is considered to be one of the only remaining ice cream parlors from this time period. Try flavors like Pineapple Pecan, Banana Chocolate Chip, Fresh Peach or Mocha Chip.

3. Yagoot

Created by Busken Bakery, Yagoot features three flavors of frozen yogurt and fresh toppings like mango, blackberries and kiwi or top your bowl with cereal, chocolate chips or gummi bears.Visit Rookwood Commons, 10 minutes from campus, for the nearest location.

4. Yogurt Vi

Located on Calhoun Street in the middle of the University of Cincinnati's campus, this self-serve frozen yogurt shop offers 20 different flavors. After getting as much or as little as you want, you can add fresh fruit or candy toppings. When you're finished, your bowl is weighed and you pay by the ounce.

5. Skyline Chili

A Cincinnati trademark since 1949, Skyline is unlike most chili because of its thin consistency and unexpected ingredient: chocolate. Try it out for yourself – it comes on pasta, hot dogs, burritos, baked potatoes and more. They even have a vegetarian version, made with black beans and rice. Norwood's Skyline Chili is located just a few minutes from campus on Montgomery Road.

6. Pleasant Ridge Chili

Located on Montgomery Road, about five minutes away from Norwood Plaza, Pleasant Ridge Chili is a Xavier favorite. Although they do serve chili, they are most known for their unique Gravy Cheese Fries and their late-night hours. They are open until 4:30 a.m.

7. LaRosa's Pizzeria

A Cincinnati favorite, LaRosa's serves great pizza, spaghetti, ziti, lasagna, calzones, hoagies and much more with their traditional sweet sauce. Just head down Montgomery Road for the nearest location.

8. Dewey's Pizza

Although they have your traditional toppings, they are known for their uncommon and unusual flavors. Roasted garlic cloves, feta cheese, artichokes and pancetta are just a few gourmet toppings offered. You can make your own pizza or choose one of their specialty pizzas. They also serve huge, fresh salads and calzones. Check it out at Newport on the Levee or Oakley Square.

9. Currito: Burritos Without Borders

Currito is the burrito of choice when you aren't in the mood for Mexican. Although they offer a build your own burrito bar, they are most known for their unusual pre-set burrito combinations, like "Teriyaki," "Mediterranean" and "Bangkok." You can choose steak, chicken or tofu as your choice of "meat." They also feature unusual toppings like mango salsa, broccoli and hummus. The nearest Currito will soon be opening on Xavier's campus.

10. Qdoba

Qdoba's menu features a selection of delicious burrito combinations, including "Poblano Pesto," "Ancho Chili BBQ" and "Mexican Gumbo." You can also walk down the line and build your own burrito with unique topping like grilled squash and queso. The nearest Qdoba is located in Rookwood Commons, about 10 minutes from campus.

11. Chipotle

One of the most successful national chains, Chipotle bases their business on healthy food. Besides burritos, Chipotle also offers burrito bowls, tacos, salads and quesadillas. The nearest Chipotle is located in the Norwood Plaza, near Kroger.

12. Kroger

If you just want to quickly get in and out of the grocery store, Kroger is the best place to stop. You can buy pretty much anything you need here, including food, hair care, makeup, books, magazines and personal items.

13. Whole Foods

If you are looking for organic produce or more unusual items, Whole Foods is the place to be. Located in Rookwood Commons, Whole Foods features vegan or gluten-intolerant selections. Plus, the store usually has multiple free samples floating around to keep you happy.

14. Rookwood Commons

Located on Edwards Road and a quick ten minutes from campus, Rookwood Commons is the closest shopping destination to campus, including stores like the GAP, Old Navy and Banana Republic.

15. Newport on the Levee

Just across the border in Newport, KY, Newport on the Levee is a popular Xavier hangout. With places like AMC Movie Theatre, Coldstone Creamery and the Newport Aquarium, it's no wonder the Levee is always packed. Shop the day away and then grab a bit to eat or just sit by the river and watch people walk across the giant Purple People Bridge. Either way, Newport on the Levee is relaxing and a great place to go on the weekend.