As a college student, it’s basically your civic duty to try out the local food. Living at Promenade Place—or any other student housing near UVU—puts you in the perfect spot to explore some of the best eats Orem has to offer. Whether you’re craving savory barbecue, authentic Thai cuisine, donuts, or fresh pastries, these spots are all just a few minutes away.
5 Star BBQ
https://www.5starbbqcompany.com/
If you love hearty, home-style barbecue, 5 Star BBQ is a must-visit—and it’s only a 2-minute drive from Promenade Place! This family-owned restaurant has built a reputation for delicious smoked meats and generous portions. The setting is just as unique as the food: 5 Star BBQ is located inside a remodeled house, creating a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that feels like visiting a friend’s home.
For a special night out, check out the live music on Friday and Saturday evenings at 6 PM on the second floor. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal after class or a fun weekend dinner, 5 Star BBQ is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of student life at UVU.
Thai Evergreen
https://thaievergreenutah.com/#home
Only 7 minutes from Promenade Place, Thai Evergreen is a hidden gem for anyone who loves bold, authentic flavors. This noodle house offers a wide variety of dishes, from classic pad thai to spicy curries. One standout dessert to try is their sweet sticky rice with mango—a perfect balance of creamy and fruity that will leave you wanting more.
Thai Evergreen was founded by Thavone Mymala, who learned to cook from his mother, a professional chef in Laos. This family-owned restaurant brings authentic Thai cuisine to Orem, making it a favorite among students looking for something flavorful and satisfying. It’s an easy spot to grab a quick lunch or enjoy a sit-down dinner after a long day of classes.
Krispy Kreme
Who doesn’t love donuts? Lucky for Promenade Place residents, Krispy Kreme is just a 5-minute drive away. The smell of freshly baked donuts is almost irresistible, and there’s nothing like grabbing a hot, glazed original donut straight from the line.
Krispy Kreme also runs promotions and seasonal flavors, so keep an eye out for special deals or limited-edition treats. Whether it’s a mid-afternoon snack or a late-night sugar fix after studying, this location is the ultimate quick treat for students in Orem. Bonus: you can brag to your friends that your student housing near UVU is basically next door to a donut heaven.
Juan Pablo’s Bakery 5 minutes
https://www.facebook.com/juanpablosbakery/
If dessert is calling your name, Juan Pablo’s Bakery is just 5 minutes away from Promenade Place and won’t disappoint. Their pastries are made from scratch daily with no preservatives, making each bite fresh and flavorful. From croissants to cookies to custom cakes, there’s something for every sweet tooth.
Juan Pablo’s specializes in custom cakes for weddings, birthdays, quinceañeras, or any special occasion you want to celebrate. It’s also a great place to grab a quick treat with friends after class or to satisfy a late-night craving. Even if you’re on a student budget, the bakery’s reasonably priced options make it easy to enjoy a little indulgence without guilt.
Grab a Bite Near Campus
Living at Promenade Place means you’re never far from great food in Orem. Whether you want a hearty barbecue dinner, authentic Thai cuisine, donuts, or fresh pastries, all of these spots are within a 7-minute drive from your UVU student housing. Try them all—you won’t regret it!
