Many students go to Zaxby’s every week, but never pay attention to what’s behind it.

There are three restaurants representing a variety of cultures in the strip mall behind Zaxby’s. El Rinconcito, Coconut Thai and Sons Donner Kebab. They serve authentic mexican, thai and german food respectively.

If you’re looking for alternative options to everyday fast food, these restaurants serve just that.

El Rinconcito

Taste: Authentic Mexican, fresh ingredients

Time: It took about ten minutes from ordering

Price: $$ About $30 for two people.

Atmosphere: Cozy, tvs mounted for entertainment, plenty of seating and the booths are a little worn from the many patrons that have visited

Staff: Fast, friendly and knowledgeable

Good to know: This place is so legit that there is even an authentic Mexican grocery store next door. They also have a “serve yourself” chip and queso bar, which is nice to snack on while waiting.

Coconut Thai

Taste: Authentic Thai, fresh ingredients

Time: Took about 30 minutes from ordering

Price: $$ About $35 for two people

Atmosphere: Upscale, dimly lit, fresh flowers on the table, better for a date night or a celebration dinner, plenty of seating.

Staff: Very friendly and very knowledgable about the menu

Good to Know: As someone who is not a fan of spicy food, the knowledgable staff helped find a dish that would work.

** Open on Valentine’s Day per reservation **

Sons Döner Kebab

Taste: Authentic German food with unique ingredients and flavors like lamb

Time: Took about ten minutes from ordering to get our food

Price: $ about $17 for two people

Atmosphere: cozy, small business, hand painted art on the walls and limited seating. More of a take out place.

Staff: fast, friendly and know their menu.

Good to Know: Right behind the counter are two large kebabs where the cook cuts the meat for the meals.