A Little College R&R: The History of Midtown

5 Locations | Curated by Jordan Dickens

Located steps from campus along University Avenue, Midtown is home to many of the bars and restaurants frequented by UF students. However, a closer look at the history of the food and beverage industry in Gainesville demonstrates how Midtown has served as a connecting point for generations of students and alumni.

In the 1950s and 1960s, The College Inn was a popular lunch counter for University of Florida students due to its close proximity to campus. Located where the Social at Midtown is currently, The College Inn was a holdout during the Civil Rights Movement, refusing to integrate after the Supreme…
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Originally opening in 1974, the Purple Porpoise Pub made its mark on Gainesville when it relocated to its spot across from Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in 1982. Formerly the site of the College Inn, the Purple Porpoise became known as a popular place for students to gather and celebrate good…
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Opening in 1979, Skeeter's Breakfast House quickly became a mainstay in the Gainesville community. Known for their big portions and low prices, Skeeter's was open 24 hours a day, playing live country music and serving students after game days and nights out. Outside of standard breakfast…
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Originally opening in 1976, Burrito Brothers Taco Co. quickly became famous among students and locals for its burritos and signature guacamole. Its original location being described as a literal "hole-in the wall," customers would line up around the building to order. Burrito Brothers was…
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Originally opening in 1996, Grog House Bar & Grill quickly made a name for itself in the Gainesville community. Known simply as Grog by its patrons, the bar was popular among University of Florida students due to its status as one of Gainesville's few 18+ clubs and its close proximity to…
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