Stepping out of Arcadia High School (AHS) and onto Duarte Road opens up even more opportunities to explore and enjoy the local community. This vibrant street is packed with spots students love, offering something for everyone. If you’re looking for a local place to hang out with friends, look no further. This guide is the key to making the most of your day in Arcadia.
Starting off strong with one of the most popular student hangouts, TeaBrick easily takes the lead. Whether it’s a regular school day or an early dismissal, you’re bound to find TeaBrick bustling with students, enjoying their favorite drinks and snacks, such as popcorn chicken, fries, and chicken wings. Just a few steps away from AHS, it’s one of the most convenient spots for students to wind down after a long day.
“I would rate TeaBrick a solid 9/10. I love their little snacks, which come out perfectly crispy and piping hot. Most importantly, though, they’re known for their fruit teas, with the perfect blend of fruit, sweetness, and additional toppings,” said freshman Jennifer Liu.
If that sounds like your cup of tea (literally), be sure to stop by.
TeaBrick isn’t the only store that offers drinks like these, though. On this street alone, there are a total of four different drink shops, including ShareTea, 85°C Bakery Cafe, and BonAppetea.
While ShareTea specializes in boba drinks, 85°C Bakery Cafe, or 85, as students call it, sells a variety of bread, cakes, and even coffee. Students often stop by in the morning to grab breakfast and a drink before walking to nearby Dana Middle School (DMS) or AHS. Not only is it a shop with all the best parts of a study cafe, it’s also a popular spot for friend groups to gather for a study session.
“85 is a great place for me to hangout with my friends. The atmosphere is really nice; the place is clean, and since it’s very close to school, it’s a convenient place to grab drinks and bread from,” said freshman Sophia Wei.
BonAppetea specializes more in dishes such as Taiwanese popcorn chicken, curry over rice, potstickers, and more.
If you’re in the mood for a heartier, savory meal, Duarte Road has you covered. From hotpot spots like MoMo Paradise to familiar favorites like Omar’s Pizza, Taco Lita, and El Pollo Loco, there’s a wide variety to satisfy any craving. Omar’s Pizza has both hot and cold sandwiches, as well as a delicious create your own pizza option. If you’re craving a burrito, Taco Lita is the way to go. If you’d rather have juicy chicken, though, El Pollo Loco has you covered.
“I love Omar’s Pizza. Whenever my friends want to eat out, I always suggest it. The pizza always comes out hot and fresh, and it’s one of my favorite pizza spots. You can really tell the pizza was made with care,” says freshman JJ Ho.
There’s something for everyone here.
One hidden gem along Duarte Road is Peacock Donuts and Croissants, a cozy spot cherished by many students. Though smaller and less known compared to other popular hangouts, it’s a haven for anyone with a sweet tooth. There’s always the classics, like buttermilk donuts, glazed twists, and Vietnamese coffee, but if you’re feeling adventurous, ham and cheese croissants with jalapeno or crullers are sure to get you coming back for more.
“I hadn’t noticed this store until a friend brought me there,” said freshman Edward Lynn. “Looking back, I’m so glad they did. I absolutely love their donuts, and the prices are very reasonable too. I’d definitely recommend this store to anyone looking for a delicious sweet treat.”
Whether you’re in the mood for a refreshing drink, a savory meal, or a sweet treat, Duarte Road has it all. Explore, hang out with friends, and make the most of this vibrant street; right in the heart of Arcadia!
