While Villanova does not have any name brand food establishments on campus, there are plenty of amazing options all along the Main Line to satisfy every craving. During the school year, my friends and I will find any excuse to venture off campus to one of these places. My own sister has said to me that she can't wait for me to go back to school so she can go to her favorite restaurant just down the road from campus. No matter what you like, the Main Line has something for you when you are getting sick of dining hall food.
5. Campus Corner
Campus Corner, or "Campco", is a Villanova classic that is situated, like the name says, right on the corner of campus. Every college has their favorite late night, post-party spot and this is it for Villanova. Zilly Fries, Mac and Cheese Bites, Pizza and Chicken Fingers are among the more popular items, but they also have a variety of sandwiches, wraps, salads and more that are also really good if you just want a quick bite. If this isn't enough to convince you, Harry Styles once ordered a cheese steak from Campus Corner so if it is good enough for him it is good enough for you!
4. Snap Custom Pizza
There is nothing better than designing your own pizza, and you can do just that at Snap Custom Pizza. They have a variety of toppings, cheese, sauce and more to create the pizza of your dreams. My personal favorite is the Bianco Verde pizza with spinach and meatballs, but you really can't go wrong. This is a fast and casual environment, still in walking distance of campus.
3. Honeygrow
While this is a little farther off campus, it is worth the trip. Specializing in stir-fry, salads, a honey bar and cold-pressed juices, Honeygrow is delicious and healthy(ish). The create-your-own stir-fry has a ton of options, so you are bound to find a combination you like. And no meal is complete without dessert. The honey bar is a combination of fruit, granola, yogurt, chocolate chips, whipped cream and honey that you can customize yourself. It is the closest thing you can get to a guilt free dessert!
2. White Dog Cafe
Not only does this restaurant have some amazing food, it is completely decorated from top to bottom with pictures of dogs. Photos of dogs on the walls, on the pillows, carved out of wood, you name it! It sounds weird, but I swear it is the most tasteful use of everything dog themed I have ever seen. But besides the decor, the food is out of this world. They have a high-class version of everything, including breakfast, sandwiches, seafood, meat, etc. Though it is on the more expensive side, you will always be happy with your meal.
1. First Watch
Coming in at number one on my list is First Watch, the perfect brunch place in walking distance from Villanova. It is the ultimate farm to table cafe that uses avocado in essentially everything. You can taste the quality of the food in everything on the menu and it isn't too expensive. I have friends that swear by the avocado toast, while I have dreams about the Elevated Egg Sandwich. If you are looking for a nice, fresh meal off campus, this should be your go
Honorable Mentions:
El Limon, PokeOno, Not Your Average Joe's, Sweetgreen, Besito Mexican