Starving Students

Category: Top 5 Favourites

Our Top 5 Favourite Restaurants in the Lower Mainland!

  • TiTi Home Made Food: Authentic Persian Delights for Students

    Balancing academics, work, and social life can be demanding, leaving students in search of affordable and satisfying meals. If you’re craving rich flavors and hearty portions, TiTi Home Made Food in Coquitlam offers a taste of Persian cuisine. However, while the food is high quality, the prices can be on the higher side for budget-conscious students.

    What is TiTi Home Made Food?

    TiTi Home Made Food is a Persian restaurant located in Coquitlam, British Columbia, specializing in Mediterranean and seafood dishes. Their menu features a variety of traditional Persian items, including grilled kebabs, flavorful stews, and fresh appetizers. The restaurant is known for its commitment to using fresh and natural ingredients, aiming to provide an unforgettable culinary experience.

    Why Students Love TiTi Home Made Food

    • Authentic Flavors – The dishes are well-seasoned, rich, and full of traditional Persian spices and ingredients.
    • Diverse Menu – From grilled kebabs to vegetarian options, there’s something to satisfy various palates.
    • Convenient Hours – Open from 10:00 AM to 9:30 PM on weekdays and extended hours until 11:30 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, accommodating both lunch and late-night cravings.
    • Delivery Options – For those late-night study sessions, TiTi Home Made Food offers delivery through platforms like Uber Eats and DoorDash.

    Some Drawbacks to Consider

    • Pricey for Students – While the food is flavorful and well-portioned, many main dishes range from $17 to $27, which can be expensive for students on a tight budget.
    • Limited Seating – The space is not very large, so finding a seat during peak hours can be challenging.
    • Slow Service During Busy Hours – Some customers have reported longer wait times when the restaurant is crowded, so it may not be the best option if you’re in a rush.

    Best TiTi Home Made Food Items to Try

    • Joojeh Kabab with Rice – Marinated chicken grilled to perfection, served with aromatic saffron rice.
    • Koobideh Kabab – Seasoned ground beef kebabs, juicy and flavorful, paired with fluffy rice.
    • Fesenjan with Rice – A rich stew made with pomegranate and walnut sauce, offering a unique sweet and savory taste.
    • Ash Reshteh – A hearty Persian noodle soup packed with herbs and legumes, perfect for a comforting meal.

    Price & Value

    TiTi Home Made Food offers excellent quality but at a higher price point than many student-friendly options. Most main dishes range from $17 to $27, with generous portions that can often be shared or saved for another meal. Appetizers and sides are reasonably priced between $6 and $15, allowing you to sample a variety of flavors without overspending. While the cost may be a downside for students on a budget, the portions do offer some value if you’re sharing.

    Final Verdict: Is TiTi Home Made Food Worth It?

    If you’re willing to spend a bit more for high-quality Persian food, then yes, TiTi Home Made Food is worth a visit. The flavors are rich, and the dishes are satisfying, but the higher prices and occasional slow service may be drawbacks for students looking for a quick, budget-friendly meal.

    Pro Tip: Try splitting a main dish with a friend to make the meal more affordable!

    Have you tried TiTi Home Made Food before? Share your favorite dishes in the comments below, and stay tuned for more student-friendly food reviews on Starving Students!

    Check out the menu here: https://titifood.com/titifood/s/Menu?nsbcf=y

  • Oz Korean Cuisine: The Ultimate Comfort Food for Students

    Balancing school, work, and social life can be exhausting. When hunger strikes, nothing hits the spot like a hearty, flavorful meal that won’t break the bank. If you’re craving bold flavors, sizzling dishes, and shareable portions, OZ Korean Cuisine is a must-visit spot for students looking for an affordable and satisfying feast.

    What is OZ Korean Cuisine?

    OZ Korean Cuisine is a popular eatery known for serving up delicious and authentic Korean comfort food. From sizzling hot stone bibimbap to crispy Korean fried chicken, OZ offers a variety of dishes that are perfect for sharing with friends or indulging solo. Their menu is packed with bold flavors, rich broths, and generous portions, making it a go-to spot for students on a budget.

    Why Students Love OZ Korean Cuisine

    • Affordable Meals – With generous portion sizes and budget-friendly prices, you can enjoy a full meal without stretching your wallet.
    • Perfect for Groups – Many dishes are meant to be shared, making it an ideal spot for group dinners and study breaks with friends.
    • Late-Night Eats – Craving a midnight snack? OZ often stays open late, perfect for those late-night study sessions or post-exam celebrations.
    • Variety of Flavors – Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, savory, or sweet, OZ’s menu has something for every craving.
    • Quick & Satisfying – Service is fast, and the dishes are packed with flavor, making it a great spot for a quick yet fulfilling meal.

    Best OZ Korean Cuisine Items to Try

    • Korean Fried Chicken – Crispy, juicy, and coated in flavorful sauces like soy garlic or spicy gochujang.
    • Bibimbap – A hot stone bowl filled with rice, veggies, and a perfectly fried egg, mixed with a delicious gochujang sauce.
    • Tteokbokki – Spicy, chewy rice cakes simmered in a rich, flavorful sauce.
    • Kimchi Fried Rice – A savory and spicy dish packed with kimchi, rice, and topped with a fried egg.
    • Bulgogi Beef – Thinly sliced, marinated beef grilled to perfection and served with rice and sides.

    Price & Value For students looking to get the most out of their budget, OZ Korean Cuisine delivers in both portion size and quality. Most dishes range from $10-$18, with shareable platters offering even more value. Whether you’re dining solo or with a group, you’ll leave full and satisfied without spending a fortune.

    Final Verdict: Is OZ Korean Cuisine Worth It?

    Absolutely. If you’re searching for a flavorful, affordable, and satisfying meal, OZ Korean Cuisine is a fantastic choice. Whether you need a quick bite between classes, a cozy dinner with friends, or a late-night comfort meal, this spot has everything you need.

    Pro Tip: Bring a friend and split a few dishes to try more of the menu without overspending!

    Have you tried OZ Korean Cuisine before? Let us know your favourite dish in the comments below, and stay tuned for more student-friendly food reviews on Starving Students!

    Check out the menu here: https://www.ubereats.com/ca/store/oz-korean-cuisine/iqRE0sGeQiiDTiKZO96BDw?srsltid=AfmBOooKxZAyRcG2lzozontjk_Z-5j4akeJOLrc7qCxcwNA_XeAt9D90

  • Nemesis Cafe Surrey Pavilion

    Coffee is nearly a student’s lifeline. What’s a better way of getting through all-nighters to ace your exam? A cup of coffee of course- and Nemesis cafe has you covered.

    Nemesis Cafe just opened up near SFU’s Surrey Campus! Located next to the Engineering building, it’s a bustling place full of great energy, friendly staff, and delicious pastries and coffees.  

    How does it appeal to students?

    1. Affordable Treats – Grab your favourite pastries for a few bucks( $4-$6)! A great blend of sweet treats that don’t hurt your pockets.
    2. Comforting Drinks – Coffee, Tea, or Hot chocolates? Nemesis has you covered. Order a drink and they’ll serve you it in a great cup with latte art, and at a drinkable temperature! No waiting around and no sign of burning your tongue- great for a quick drink during long study sessions.
    3. Range of Flavors – Original pastries to danishes of great flavor, they have a treat for all your needs. Drinks can be flavored as well to crave that sweet tooth.
    4. Relaxing Study Spot–  A bustling vibe but nothing too distracting- spacious tables, various seating, and being close to campus makes it a great place to chill, study, or meet friends.

    Top Items to Try

    • Tiramisu Croissant – A staple of theirs, a large flaky croissant with mascarpone on top dusted with cocoa powder! Not only does it taste good, but it’s tasty for the eyes 
    • Pistachio Swirl – A flaky delight of a croissant in a new shape- a swirl! Brushed with honey and topped with pistachio, it’s a great filling treat that is great for those who don’t want something too sweet.

    Price & Value

    For students on a budget, Nemesis Cafe offers great value-for-money treats. With pastries and drinks ranging from $4-$6, you can enjoy a high-quality snack and drink combo for roughly $12. 

    Final Verdict: Is Nemesis Cafe Worth It?

    Yes! If you’re looking for a comfortable study spot, Nemesis is a great option. A quick pick-me-up treat and a coffee are staples here, and the general atmosphere makes you want to come back! Whether you need a light snack between classes, a sweet pick-me-up, or a cozy café to study in, this spot ticks all the boxes.

    Pro Tip: Try pairing your bun with a warm drink for the ultimate comfort food experience!

    Have you tried nemesis Cafe before? Let us know your favorite items in the comments below, and stay tuned for more student-friendly food reviews on Starving Students!

    Check out the menu here: https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0570/9499/6149/fi

  • PappaRoti: The Perfect Sweet & Savory Snack for Students

    Balancing school, work, and social life can leave students running on empty. If you’re looking for an affordable, delicious, and satisfying treat, PappaRoti should be on your radar. Known for its famous coffee-coated buns, this spot delivers a perfect mix of crispy, fluffy, and buttery goodness that won’t break the bank.

    What is PappaRoti?

    PappaRoti is a Malaysian-origin chain best known for its signature coffee caramel-coated bun—a warm, airy, and lightly sweet pastry with a crispy outer shell and a soft, buttery interior. While the buns are the star, PappaRoti also offers savory snacks, specialty coffee, and tea to complete the experience.

    Why Students Love PappaRoti

    1. Affordable Treats – The classic bun is priced around $4-$5, making it a budget-friendly snack that feels like a luxury.
    2. Perfect Study Snack – Light, fluffy, and not too heavy, PappaRoti’s buns are great for a quick pick-me-up during long study sessions.
    3. Customizable Flavors – While the original bun is amazing on its own, you can add toppings like Nutella, ice cream, or fresh fruit for extra indulgence.
    4. Great Drinks to Pair With – Whether you’re a coffee lover or prefer matcha, chai, or milk tea, PappaRoti has a range of drinks to pair with your bun.
    5. Relaxing Study Spot – Many PappaRoti locations have a cozy café vibe, making it a great place to chill, study, or meet friends.

    Best PappaRoti Items to Try

    • Signature Coffee Bun – The must-try classic: crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, with a rich buttery center.
    • Iced Matcha Latte – A refreshing, lightly sweet drink to enjoy with your snack.
    • Ice Cream Bun – Their signature coffee caramel bun warmly wrapped around frozen ice cream and sealed to perfection.

    Price & Value

    For students on a budget, PappaRoti offers great value-for-money treats. With buns ranging from $4-$6 and drinks averaging $4-$7, you can enjoy a high-quality snack and drink combo for under $12. Some locations even offer student discounts or combo deals, so be sure to ask!

    Final Verdict: Is PappaRoti Worth It?

    Absolutely. If you’re looking for an affordable yet satisfying treat, PappaRoti is a fantastic option. Whether you need a light snack between classes, a sweet pick-me-up, or a cozy café to study in, this spot ticks all the boxes.

    Pro Tip: Try pairing your bun with a warm drink for the ultimate comfort food experience!

    Have you tried PappaRoti before? Let us know your favorite bun and drink combo in the comments below, and stay tuned for more student-friendly food reviews on Starving Students!

    Check out the menu here: https://papparoti.ca/papparoti-coquitlam/

  • Japarrito: A Budget-Friendly Sushi Burrito for Hungry Students

    When you’re a student, finding a meal that balances affordability, flavor, and convenience can feel like striking gold. If you’re craving sushi but don’t want to break the bank, let us introduce you to Japarrito—the ultimate sushi burrito that’s satisfying, portable, and most importantly, budget-friendly.

    What is Japarrito?

    Japarrito is a fusion of Japanese flavors wrapped in a convenient burrito-style package. Think of it as a supersized sushi roll, loaded with fresh ingredients and bold flavors, all bundled up in a seaweed wrap instead of a tortilla. It’s the perfect grab-and-go meal for students juggling classes, assignments, and social life.

    Why Students Love Japarrito

    1. Big Portions, Small Price – One Japarrito is enough to keep you full without needing to spend extra on sides. It’s a hearty option for those long study sessions or after-class hunger pangs.
    2. Fresh Ingredients – Unlike some fast-food alternatives, Japarrito offers a variety of fresh seafood, crispy vegetables, and flavorful sauces to make every bite delicious.
    3. Customizable Options – Whether you love classic sushi flavors like salmon and avocado, or prefer a spicy kick with tuna and sriracha mayo, there’s a Japarrito for you.
    4. Fast and Convenient – It’s easy to eat on the go, making it a great alternative to sushi rolls that require chopsticks and dipping sauces.

    Best Japarrito Flavors to Try

    Here are some top picks to help you decide what to order:

    • Spicy Tuna – Fresh tuna, crunchy tempura bits, and spicy mayo for a flavorful kick.
    • Shoyu Salmon – A simple yet classic choice with creamy avocado and fresh salmon.
    • BBQ Eel – For those who love a slightly sweet, smoky flavor.
    • Vegetarian – Packed with tofu, cucumbers, avocado, and sesame seeds for a light yet filling option.

    Price & Value

    Depending on the location, a Japarrito typically costs around $8-$12, which is a great deal considering its size and quality. Some places even offer student discounts or combo deals, so be sure to ask!

    Final Verdict: Is Japarrito Worth It?

    Absolutely. If you’re a sushi lover looking for a more affordable and filling option, Japarrito is a must-try. It’s tasty, portable, and perfect for students who need a quick meal between classes without sacrificing quality.

    Pro Tip: Check out local deals or lunch specials to get even more bang for your buck!

    Have you tried Japarrito before? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below, and stay tuned for more budget-friendly food reviews on Starving Students!

    Check out the menu here: https://m.japarrito.com/