Just steps from Florida International University’s Modesto A. Maidique Campus are five local spots that have become staples of the Sweetwater area’s food scene: Green Chicken, Subrageous Subs FIU, Sushi Sake FIU, BurBowl and Kung Fu Chicken FIU. Whether you are grabbing a quick sub between classes, making a late-night sushi run or buying a protein-packed bowl to power through study sessions, these eateries are for you..
Subrageous Subs is known for oversized subs at affordable prices. Sushi Sake offers a 3 p.m. happy hour. And Kung Fu Chicken is famous for its bold signature sauce.
For many Panthers, the Sweetwater area near campus has become a second home, and these restaurants are more than meals. They are canon events of the FIU student experience.
Green Chicken
737 SW 109th Ave.
Miami, FL 33174
(305) 300-5035
Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Green Chicken has become one of the most popular spots for FIU students and athletes looking for a quick, fresh meal. Located near off-campus housing such as The One, 4th Street Commons and 109 Tower, it’s also just a short walk from campus. Best known for its chicken and steak bowls, Green Chicken offers build-your-own options ranging from $9.99 to $13.49. The menu also features sandwiches, wraps and quesadillas priced between $8.99 and $11.49 and new breakfast items starting at $6.99 with coffee drinks averaging $3 to $5.
The spot is a favorite of the FIU men’s basketball team, which often stops by after practice or before road trips.
“Green Chicken has become a staple for our program,” said head coach Jeremy Ballard. “Our guys love it — we’re there all the time as a team. It’s healthy, it’s fresh, and it’s the perfect spot for us to refuel together after practice.”
Subrageous Subs FIU
1553 SW 107th Ave.
Miami, FL 33174
(305) 220-7332
Monday – Saturday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Subrageous Subs FIU is known across campus for its oversized sandwiches at surprisingly modest prices. This is a major reason it’s a favorite among Panthers. Its signature subs are loaded with fresh ingredients and generous servings, and most fall in the $16–$20 range. Conveniently located across from FIU’s Modesto Maidique Campus, the shop is perfectly suited for a quick lunch between classes or a late-study session pick-me-up. The casual, student-friendly environment makes it ideal for both solo visits and group hangouts.Subrageous is part of a local sub-shop chain with over 35 years in business. Its longevity has allowed it to become a staple in the Miami sandwich scene.
Sushi Sake FIU
740 SW 109th Ave.
Miami, FL 33174
(786) 666-7254
Sunday – Thursday: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Friday – Saturday: 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Sushi Sake FIU is part of a popular national chain known for its wide selection of sushi rolls, sashimi, nigiri and specialty dishes like poke bowls and tempura. Fan favorites include the spicy tuna roll, Dragon Roll and lunch specials, along with signature creations inspired by South Florida teams such as the Miami Heat Roll and Marlins Roll. A daily 3 p.m. happy hour features discounted rolls and drinks, with sushi rolls starting at around $6 and cocktails beginning at $5. The bar area fills up quickly in the evening, creating a lively atmosphere perfect for unwinding after class or celebrating a big win.With its modern setting and generous portions, especially the giant fried rice bowls, Sushi Sake FIU has become a staple hangout for Panthers craving fresh, flavorful sushi at student-friendly prices.
BurBowl
1673 SW 107th Ave.
Miami, FL 33165
(305) 640-5258
Monday – Thursday: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Friday – Saturday: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Sunday: 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Recently opened, BurBowl is already making waves with some of the best smash burgers in the area. Just a seven-minute drive from campus, it is easy for students to hit between classes or on the way home.
The menu features the Guilt Free Smash Burger, a lettuce wrap option, for $9.95 and the original Juicy Smashed Burger for $8.95. The restaurant recommends pairing burgers with its Juicy Loaded Fries, at $6.95, which come topped with melted cheese, bacon, grilled onions and their garlic chipotle and cilantro sauce.
If you want to skip the burger, BurBowl’s bowls are a solid alternative. The Miami Bowl includes cilantro green rice, black Angus beef, mozzarella, corn, grilled onions, tomatoes, mushrooms, potato sticks and their garlic chipotle and cilantro sauce. The Rampage Bowl swaps in a crispy fries base and adds cheddar, grilled onions, mushrooms, bacon and ketchup. There is also a Vegan Bowl featuring quinoa, a veggie patty, lettuce, tomatoes, corn, onions, grilled mushrooms and honey mustard.
Kung Fu Chicken FIU
1661 SW 107th Ave.
Miami, FL 33165
(786) 907-4950
Monday – Sunday: 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Kung Fu Chicken FIU is just a six-minute drive from campus. The restaurant recently partnered with FIU, offering students, faculty and staff with a valid FIU ID a 10 percent discount. One of the most popular menu items is chicken fingers served with the highly recommended Kung Fu Sauce, a creamy, smooth umami topping. The menu also features a variety of chicken sandwiches, and drinks include mango and strawberry coco smoothies.
