Lubbock, Don’t Sleep On Businesses Just Because They’re Close to Campus

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I'll be the first to admit that I've chosen to forgo a bar, restaurant, or other business because it was close to the Texas Tech Campus. The reason? I made the false and ridiculous assumption it would be packed to the gills. Of course, that is sometimes true, but it can't possibly be true all of the time at every single establishment.

The truth is, you very well may be missing out on some of the best Lubbock has to offer. 

I love Tech students. I am a Tech graduate (WRECK 'EM), so why was I acting like I was afraid to be around them? So silly.

I recently put on my big girl pants and tried two Lubbock businesses: Paint Rock Cafe and Miguel's (2002 Broadway). They are both wildly unique and cool places, and between the two of them, one is certain to fit your current mood/ vibe.

And the really interesting part? They are twins! They are owned by the same people and you can actually go between the two without stepping outside.

Let's start where I started: at Paint Rock Cafe. This place is adorable.

And the staff doesn't bat an eye when you snap a selfie, a photo of your drink, or even get a shot of your favorite niece in one of those very pretty hanging flower chairs.

She's a fan. I'm also a fan because I don't normally like flavored coffee drinks, but my "Let's Go Girls" was delicious. Did I order it because of the name? Yes, I did. I also ordered a cranberry cream muffin that I inhaled before being able to photograph it.

The vibe is incredibly relaxed, and they have extended hours- all the way to 9 p.m. So it's both a perfect place for Tech kids to study or for anyone else to enjoy a pleasant and chill place to hang out with friends or in my case, my family.

Right next door is Miguel's, which definitely has a more "party" atmosphere, but not obnoxiously so. It's full of cool, hand-painted murals.

Needless to say, I got a slightly stiffer drink there- some really delicious draft sangria.

Miguel's can get to capacity (around 800 people) during football season. Currently, it is not football season and won't be for some time, so don't let the potential crowd scare you away. It's actually quite a roomy place with plenty of booths- but if you do want to feel the energy and action, you should sit at their super slick 360-degree bar.

Right after I snapped this picture, the bar began to fill up. In spite of that, I got excellent service from a very sweet and attentive bartender who answered all of my questions. Miguel's has a full menu of Tex-Mex favorites, pool tables, plenty of TVs, and a huge outdoor patio.  Really, something for everyone.

Here's the truth

Tech students are one of the best things about Lubbock. They bring us new life, new energy, and new fun and cool things to do here in Lubbock. They are a treasure and I love them. I might be a little biased. Okay, totally biased. That's fine- I'll always be a Red Raider.

Tech students support our town just by being here. And we should support the business near campus because I promise you, they aren't just catering to Tech students. They want you, too.