Best Food Near University of Washington
As a student at the University of Washington, there is never a shortage of things to do or places to explore. One of the many things I love about this campus is the variety of food options available.
From simple neighborhood take out to neighborhood pizza joints best restaurants to neighborhood fine dining and other best restaurants and other best restaurants and food, there is something for everyone in the the neighborhood and surrounding neighborhoods.
In this blog post, I’ll be sharing my favorite neighborhood restaurant and the other best restaurants, other best restaurants, food and spots near the University of Washington campus neighborhood. Seattle is also home to some of the best coffee shops.
Commonly known as University District or “U District”, diversity plays an integral part to success, and while honoring diverse experiences and perspectives, what is there to say about Washington’s diverse dining options for students?
Exactly where the very best restaurants for the best food and the very very best restaurants for the best food and the best restaurants where the best restaurants for food do UW students eat? And are the best restaurants their best restaurants and best restaurants and the best restaurants for food and options any good? I will say, you’ve come to the right place! Consider this list of the best restaurants and foods near University of Washington
Thai Tom
If you’re in the mood for some authentic Thai cuisine, look no further than Thai Tom. Located on the Ave, this small restaurant has a big reputation for its delicious food. The menu is simple but packed with flavor.
The Pad Thai and the Spicy Basil Noodle are some of my favorites. The atmosphere is casual and the service is friendly. The downside is that it can get crowded during peak hours, but it’s definitely worth the wait.
Agua Verde Café & Paddle Club
If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, check out Agua Verde Café & Paddle Club. Located on the waterfront, this restaurant offers a beautiful view of Portage Bay. They serve a variety of Mexican dishes, including tacos, burritos, and quesadillas.
The standout dish, however, is the seafood paella. It’s enough to feed two people and comes with mussels, clams, shrimp, chicken, and chorizo. You can also rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore the bay before or after your meal.
Portage Bay Café
Portage Bay Café is a popular brunch spot among University of Washington students. They serve organic, locally sourced food and have a wide variety of dishes to choose from. Their pancake bar is a must-try – you can choose from a variety of toppings, including fresh fruit and whipped cream.
They also serve delicious omelets, scrambles, and breakfast sandwiches. The restaurant is often crowded on weekends, so be prepared to wait for a table.
Thai 65
Another great Thai restaurant near the University of Washington campus is Thai 65. This restaurant is known for its flavorful curries and generous portions. The Massaman Curry and the Panang Curry are my personal favorites.
They also serve a variety of noodle dishes and appetizers. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and the service is quick.
Sizzle & Crunch
If you’re in the mood for Korean food, Sizzle & Crunch is a great option. They serve a variety of dishes, including bibimbap, Korean fried chicken, and ramen. The standout dish, however, is the Korean BBQ.
You can choose from a variety of meats, including beef, pork, and chicken, and grill them at your table. The restaurant has a modern atmosphere and the service is friendly.
Paseo Caribbean Food
Paseo Caribbean Food is a hole-in-the-wall restaurant that serves some of the best sandwiches in Seattle. The menu is simple – they serve a variety of Caribbean-inspired sandwiches, including the Cuban Roast, the Caribbean Roast, and the Vegetarian.
The sandwiches are packed with flavor and come with generous portions of meat and toppings. The restaurant is small and often crowded, but the food is worth the wait.
Big Time Brewery & Alehouse
If you’re in the mood for a cold beer and some pub food,Big Time Brewery & Alehouse is the perfect spot. Located just a few blocks from the University of Washington campus, this microbrewery has been a local favorite since 1988.
They serve a variety of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and ales. The menu features classic pub food, including burgers, sandwiches, and fries. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, and the staff is friendly.
8.Musashi’s
If you’re a fan of sushi, Musashi’s is a must-visit. This small Japanese restaurant is located just off the Ave and serves some of the best sushi in Seattle. The menu features a variety of sushi rolls, as well as other Japanese dishes, including udon noodles and teriyaki chicken.
The sushi is always fresh and the service is friendly.
Shultzy’s Sausage
Shultzy’s Sausage is a popular spot among University of Washington students. They serve a variety of sausages, including bratwurst, chorizo, and Polish sausage. The sausages are served on a toasted roll and come with your choice of toppings, including sauerkraut, onions, and jalapeños.
They also serve a variety of sides, including fries, onion rings, and potato salad. The atmosphere is casual and the staff is friendly.
Pagliacci Pizza
No list of the best food and spots near the University of Washington campus would be complete without mentioning Pagliacci Pizza. This local pizza chain has been a Seattle favorite since 1979.
They serve a variety of pizzas, including classic cheese, pepperoni, and margherita. They also have a variety of specialty pizzas, including the Canadian bacon and pineapple and the Chicken Primo. The pizza is always fresh and the service is quick.
11.U:Don Fresh Japanese Noodle Station
If you’re in the mood for some comfort food, U:Don Fresh Japanese Noodle Station is a great option. They serve a variety of udon noodle dishes, including curry udon, beef udon, and tempura udon.
They also have a variety of sides, including gyoza and takoyaki. The restaurant has a modern atmosphere and the service is friendly.
Sushi Kappo Tamura
If you’re looking for a fine dining experience, Sushi Kappo Tamura is a great option. This Japanese restaurant is located just a few blocks from the University of Washington campus and serves some of the best sushi in Seattle. The menu features a variety of sushi rolls, as well as other Japanese dishes, including miso soup and tempura.
The atmosphere is upscale and the service is impeccable.
Café Solstice
If you’re in the mood for a cup of coffee or a quick snack, Café Solstice is a great option. Located on the Ave, this café has a cozy atmosphere and a wide variety of drinks and snacks. They serve a variety of coffee drinks, including lattes, cappuccinos, and Americanos.
They also have a variety of baked goods, including muffins, scones, and croissants.
Tacos Chukis
If you’re in the mood for some authentic Mexican food, Tacos Chukis is a great option. This small restaurant serves delicious tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. The standout dish, however, is the al pastor taco. The meat is marinated in achiote and pineapple and cooked on a spit, giving it a unique flavor.
The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and the service is quick.
AGUA VERDE CAFÉ AND PADDLE CLUB
This Mexican restaurant, located just 2 minutes from the university, serves delicious breakfast burritos, vegetarian options, and tasty tacos for lunch. Serving up delicious breakfast burritos, scrumptious vegetarian options and tasty tacos for lunch, this Mexican restaurant serves food & drinks on a patio along Portage Bay.
What’s extremely exciting about this spot are the Kayak rentals available downstairs. According to neighborhood friends and students alike, being on the water is truly an experience – not to mention the delicious tacos and highly recommended margaritas made to order!
Oh yeah, customer service is top notch, and everything about this restaurant screams refreshing. You should give this one a try! This is where one goes for a stellar Seattle day near University Way!
Araya’s Place Vegan Thai – University District
Established in 1987, this vegan Thai restaurant is located in a lovely courtyard with seasonal outdoor dining. The restaurant offers great vegan, gluten-free, and vegetarian options, and the food is consistently good.
XI’AN NOODLES
A taste of China off of University Way, this authentic Asian cuisine dishes up hand-pulled noodles, street food, and other classical favorites. Everything here is so flavorful and cooked to perfection! Their noodle soup is to die for and let’s not get started on their dumplings!
Even with their take-out and delivery only option, Xi’an Noodles are offering guests to take advantage of their outdoor seating area with heaters for the winter. This place has my tastebuds singing. Must try indeed!
BA BAR – UNIVERSITY VILLAGE
If you’re looking for a great atmosphere with beautiful décor, warm welcomes, outdoor seating with heaters, and delicious noodles, come to Ba Bar! This high-end Vietnamese restaurant serves up delicious and savory classics alongside very interesting craft cocktails. Comforting and delicious food with a great vibe sounds like music our ears.
Recommended items include the Crispy Imperial Rolls, the Phở Gà Trộn - fresh rice noodles, Draper Valley chicken, ginger vinegar, bird eye chili, roasted peanut, served with phở broth, or the Chicken Vermicelli Noodles which tastes as good as it looks! Service is also very friendly and prompt which is always a breath of fresh restaurant air!
A taste of restaurant the best food in heaven. I believe it. Try this restaurant today!
DIN TAI FUNG – UNIVERSITY DISTRICT
This busy, modern Seattle Taiwan chain - famed for its Shanghai-style soup dumplings and noodles - seem to be the talk of the town - with all dumplings and noodles made to perfection. With simple décor, this restaurant features fantastic food and fast service.
Favorite entrees and items include the Seaweed and Bean Curd appetizer, served along with mushrooms, as well as the Red Bean and Mochi Bao Dessert. You have to have the Xiao Long Bao, Sautéed String Beans with Garlic, and Chocolate Buns!
This spot is great to take your families and friends. What a treat in U District.
Wataru
This authentic and stylish sushi restaurant has an intimate sushi bar - serving seafood flown in from Tokyo. Everything you would expect in excellent sushi - made with super fresh ingredients, gorgeously prepared rolls, and timely service.
Favorites include the Take Way Omakase and the Sushi Omakase. Visit WATARU today!
Dick's Drive-in
Seattle burger and milkshake experience is a must stop when out late in town! This casual eatery serves up quality hamburger patties, extremely fast service, friendly staff and hot, fresh food! With reasonable prices and delicious thick shakes, no wonder they come highly recommended!
No list of food spots near the University of Washington campus would be complete without mentioning Dick’s Drive-In. This fast-food chain has been a Seattle staple since 1954.
They serve classic burgers, fries, and milkshakes at affordable prices. The burgers are made with fresh ingredients and cooked to order. I love grabbing a burger and fries to go and eating them in the nearby Cal Anderson Park. Please believe, we approve this message!
Ray's Boathouse
This local favorite spot sits on a long-standing dockside - serving Pacific NW seafood with views of Shilshole Bay. Peaceful ambience and waterfront views make Ray’s Boathouse an amazing experience.
What a pleasant atmosphere to hang out with friends and family for happy hour, lunch, dinner or just drinks. And the food is fantastic! Favorites include Ray’s Pacific Northwest Sablefish, the Fried Oysters and Pork Belly, and the Grilled Spanish Octopus.
I would strongly recommend it!
Terra Plata* - Melrose Market
This high-end restaurant features a menu with great food options - using locally sourced dishes and fresh ingredients. Noted as a hidden gem of the city, the rooftop deck creates a great atmosphere and worthy experience.
This restaurant features welcoming personnel - providing excellent service, appropriately portioned size meals, and true flavored and savory food. A must try for sure!
Lost Lake
This authentic, cozy restaurant and bar in Seattle is the perfect spot for breakfast, brunch, dinner, or a late-night coffee for students. With so many options to choose from, we suggest going for the classic Benedict with Avocado and Rosemary potatoes on the side. Very tasty dishes.
Enjoy the outdoor seating option to adjust your atmosphere to brighten up your day.
The Pink Door
If you’re looking for great Italian dishes, check out one of the top Italian restaurants in Seattle! Featuring amazing Italian dishes, a fantastic ambiance, and great cocktails, be sure to make a reservation since this place is always packed! If you do make a reservation, you’ll be seated immediately.
The menu has so many delicious options, but be sure to ask your waiter for items that come highly recommended. Favorites include Truffle Fries, Grilled Eggplant, Rigatoni with Mama’s meatballs, and the Apple Cake! Each option – fantastic in its own right. Definitely worth a try if the Seattle area!
To sum up, the dining scene around the University of Washington campus and its adjacent areas is a melting pot of culinary delights that satisfy a variety of palates and dietary needs. From delectable Thai dishes to mouthwatering sushi and satisfying pub fare, you can find a plethora of food choices to please every taste bud in the vicinity of the campus.
This is an ideal location for students and young professionals in Seattle.
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