KEVIN B. KLAUS/Arizona Summer Wildcat Former graduate student Sanford Smith enjoys a beer at Gentle Ben's before it gets busy. Gentle Ben's is a local brewery that serves food during the day and provides music for dancing at night.

College life at the UA revolves around more than just classes and books. Occasionally, students need a place to chill out, eat and possibly buy some new threads.

The shops on University Boulevard and Fourth Avenue make eating and shopping that much more enjoyable.

Even though UA students predominantly like to shop on Fourth Avenue, most students frequent the restaurants and other stores on University Boulevard out of convenience.

Here is a comprehensive guide to things you can eat, wear and do on University Boulevard.

FOOD

Chipotle Mexican Grill
905 East University Blvd., Suite 149
520-628-7967
It's not your traditional taco stand, but they've got great tacos and big 'n tasty burritos.

Gentle Ben's
865 East University Blvd.
520-624-4177
If you want more than just a beer, this is a great restaurant for lunch, dinner or a social gathering.

Johnny Rockets
825 E. University Blvd., Suite 121
520-622-2245
A '50's-style diner and hamburger shop.

La Salsa Fresh Mexican Grill
825 E. University Blvd., Suite 181
520-670-9700
With quesadillas, enchiladas, fajitas and salads, this Mexican restaurant is more than just tacos and burritos.

Pei Wei Asian Diner
845 E. University Blvd.
520-884-7413
This typically pricey Pan-Asian restaurant has great food.

Penguin's Frozen Yogurt
825 E. University Blvd., Suite 161
Go here for ice cream and frozen yogurt delicacies.

The Pita Pit
845 E. University Blvd., Suite 175
520-882-3926
With dozens of meats, veggies and other good toppings to choose from, you can make the perfect pita sandwich here.

Starbucks
802-804 E. University Blvd.
520-620-9344
What's any university without a Starbucks or four?

Diners typically favor chain restaurants, but UA students have discovered just how good the local mom & pop restaurants are. Some of the best include:

Cafe Paraiso
820 E. University Blvd.
520-624-1707
You can enjoy coffee, sandwiches, salads, desserts and conversation at this pleasant café.

Chen's Cafe
922 E. University Blvd.
520-882-7888
You can get quick Chinese food at this restaurant, which serves meals a la carte and cooked to order.

Frog & Firkin
847 E. University Blvd.
520-623-7507
A UA student favorite, this English-style pub and restaurant has great burgers, sandwiches and booze that can be enjoyed on the front patio.

Kababeque Indian Grill
845 E. University Blvd., Suite 185
520-388-4500
This restaurant is new, but many students agree that it is a great place to get lamb kabobs, veggie samosas and yummy mango or strawberry lassis.

No Anchovies
870 E. University Blvd.
520-623-3333
With a full bar, this restaurant has arguably the greatest pizza in Tucson with every topping you can imagine ... except anchovies, of course.

Sinbad's
810 E. University Blvd.
520-623-4010
Go here for falafel, shawerma, vegetarian couscous and other great Middle Eastern dishes without paying a lot of money.

SHOPPING

College students know the occasional indulgence of shopping is important to their academic progress. So, here are a few local apparel stores to keep you looking stylish or like a college student.

Arizona Wildwear
905 E. University Blvd., Suite 101
520-622-2563
This is just like Campus Athletic, only it has more souvenirs like UA mugs and stuffed animals.

Divaz
906 E. University Blvd.
520-791-9466
If you're into big city fashions and looking like a diva, this is the boutique for you.

Campus Athletic
936 E. University Blvd.
520-628-7622
This place has the UA logo stamped on practically every article of clothing imaginable.

Landmark Clothing & Shoes
867 E. University Blvd.
520-622-3706
With brands like Polo-Ralph Lauren, Cole-Haan and Birkenstock, this store houses unique fashions ranging from surfer wear to preppy casual.

Urban Outfitters
901 E. University Blvd.
520-791-3800
From camis and minis to jeans and t-shirts, this is a great store for women and men to shop.

White House/Black Market
825 E. University Blvd., Suite 131
520-623-2494
This is the place for women looking for something a little more elegant and formal.

OTHER SERVICES

University Boulevard offers more than just food and fashion. There are hair salons, cell phone stores and other useful services for UA students.

Blades Hair Design
804 E. University Blvd.
520-622-4247
For more than a quick cut, check out this unique salon, where you can get custom cuts, dimensional colors and other services.

Cost Cutters
990 E. University Blvd.
520-792-3282
Whether you need a quick cut or a new look, it's best to make an appointment in order to avoid waiting. Plus, with discount cards, UA students can get 15 percent off any service or hair product.

The Joint
800 E. University Blvd., Suite 100
520-622-3886
This chiropractic place, which offers acupuncture and Chinese herbology, can help get your joints, spine and whatever else ails you back into shape.

Spring Nail Salon
845 E. University Blvd., Suite 155
520-791-7447
Manicures, pedicures, body waxing and more are available to UA girls, and even guys, at this salon. You can make an appointment or just walk in.