Looking for something to eat outside of the dining halls? Here are the best restaurants (according to your peers) on and off campus.

1. Eggspectation

Eggspectation is the perfect brunch spot to try with friends and family. Not only do they specialize in “all things breakfast,” but they take pride in their customer friendly environment. They are open during brunch hours and have an all day menu of sweet and savory items, including fried chicken and waffles, smoked salmon benedict and s’mores French toast.

2. First Watch

The classic chain, First Watch, is a favorite among many with their vast assortment of breakfast and lunch food items. The carnita breakfast burrito, Baja turkey burger and lemon ricotta pancakes are just some of their bestselling dishes.

3. Drip Café

Right on North Campus, you can grab a quick bite or do homework all day long in the welcoming café. Enjoy fresh coffee and lunch and brunch items made with local ingredients, including sandwiches, salads and grain bowls. Pro tip: check out the homemade pastries and bakery items like the banana and nutella muffins! “[Drip Café has] good quality food, many different options, it’s healthyish and convenient to walk to,” says sophomore Abby Chapin.

4. Cava

Similar to Roots on Main Street, Cava has build-your-own bowls with a Mediterranean twist. Starting with a base and the option to add as many toppings as you like, you can purchase their products at Whole Foods or go to Christiana Mall to sample their selections.

5. Sakura – Wilmington

Known for their sushi, Sakura is a favorite among students for their huge variety of menu choices, including both Japanese and Chinese popular dishes. Some of their bestsellers include the Green Glass roll, yaki-udon and salmon teriyaki.

6. Taverna

The popular rustic Italian eatery is one of the most elegant and classy restaurants in Newark. With indoor and outdoor seating, drinks and food are served daily with homemade pastas, coal-fired pizzas and delicious appetizers to share with friends and family. “Taverna has expensive meals and good drinks where I like to go for special occasions,” says junior Ella Messick.

7. Roots

Want a healthier option that can be personalized to exactly what you want? Roots has customizable bowls that start off with a base of either rice or greens, topped with a variety of vegetables, protein sources and their famous homemade dressings.

8. El Diablo Burritos

Burrito bowls, tacos, quesadillas galore! El Diablo is one of Newark’s most popular restaurants due to their expansive and unique menu. The Delaware-based chain rises to the challenge of national competitors like Chipotle and Qdoba. “El Diablo is my favorite place on Main Street because I love Mexican food and it reminds me of Chipotle, but has way more fresh options,” says sophomore Caroline Sattely. “I usually get a bowl with chicken, lettuce, pickled onions, jalapeños, guac, sour cream, chipotle ranch and pineapple salsa.”

9. Grain Craft Bar + Kitchen

With outdoor dining and an authentic indoor bar, Grain is a Newark favorite for both brunch, lunch and dinner. Need a place to celebrate an occasion? Make a brunch reservation to enjoy mimosa pitchers, bacon sliders on tater tot waffles and—a tribute to UD students hailing from the Garden State—the Jersey Shore special, a grilled pork roll, egg and cheese sandwich on a brioche bun. In the evening, you can grab drinks at the bar and listen to some live music during the warmer months.

10. Snap Pizza

Right at the top of Main is a classic for UD students looking for something on the go. Make a custom pizza or pick off the menu of their signature pies including the Kennett Square (made with local mushrooms), Bianco Verde (a mozzarella and ricotta cheese combo with basil) and the Hot Little Honey (with spicy pepperoni and J’s hot honey).

This blog post is written by our Division of Student Life student intern Elliana Olivo.