Red Onion Neighborhood Grill

With the hustle and bustle of the University of Florida campus crowding all the great eateries, sometimes it’s nice to escape the crowd and enjoy a meal without running into everyone you know. The Red Onion Neighborhood Grill, just a 10-minute drive from the center of the University of Florida, is tasty getaway from the usual favorites. From burgers and crab cakes to salads and sandwiches and steaks, the Red Onion offers a little something for everyone, no matter what type of food you’re in the mood for.

Appetizers, including beer-battered red onion rings and hot tortilla chips with fresh, chunky salsa, range from $6 to $9, while main entrees, such as pasta dishes and classic NY strip steaks, are around $15. With such an extensive menu, the Red Onion doubles as both a lunch spot and a dinner place. Many of the waiters seem to suggest the burgers made from 1/2 lb. black angus beef and served with fries when asked what’s good to eat. The salads are big enough to serve as your meal. Portion size on all the dishes is more than adequate, and the appetizers are great to nosh on.

Modern, red light fixtures set the subdued, yet upscale ambiance at the Red Onion, separating it from your typical T.G.I.Friday’s, Applebee’s or Chili’s. With a full-service bar and TVs mounted on the walls, the Red Onion is conducive to large, boisterous parties and small get-togethers. You can even watch Gator games here if you don’t have tickets. The wait staff is attentive and will gladly split the check between people, if need be.

The Red Onion, while not anything out of the ordinary, is a refined establishment with decent food where you won’t likely run into the typical UF clientele.

KP’s Crumbs: The burgers are big enough for two meals. The tortilla chips aren't salty enough, but the guacamole for $1 extra makes them worthwhile.

My end of the date rate the plate: Eh, not really worthy of any fork at all. Certainly not worthy of spooning. Put it this way, in Gainesville, you can do way better!

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The Red Onion Neighborhood Grill

3901 NW 24th Blvd, Gainesville, FL 32605, 352.505.0088