The “G” word is quickly approaching: graduation. Seniors, we know you don’t want to leave, but your time has come to spread your blue wings and fly. Before you go though, you probably have family coming in and you gotta feed ’em. You want them to have a good time, but there’s a more important factor to consider when choosing your post-grad spot. Where the hell should you have your very last meal as a blue hen? Here are our top picks for celebrating with the fam on graduation weekend.
- Caffé Gelato
You’ve literally walked by this place a thousand times and eaten there maybe twice? Or never? It may have been too expensive on a college budget, but not for your parents. This restaurant is for the family who wants to spend some bucks on graduation weekend and in return have a fantastic upscale dinner. Caffé Gelato’s menu is classic Italian, so it’s sure to be a crowd pleaser for all those NY/NJ families. Their house made pastas and a bunch of their entrees can be made gluten free on request if you have an allergy in your family. They also have a great wine list, so get a couple bottles. You’re celebrating anyway, right?
Photo by Caroline Grew
- Homegrown
Looking for a relaxed and more organic atmosphere? Then Homegrown Cafe is the place to be. A majority of the menu can be customized with many different kinds of proteins, so it will fit everyone’s taste. Even your picky vegan-soy-free-gluten-free aunt will eat happy. If Homegrown is not your choice for dinner, you better stop by for brunch on the way out. Their brunch menu fits both kind of brunch eater: those that enjoy a light fare or people who prefer to eat their body weight in brunch. On the lighter side, pick the Chef’s Breakfast. It includes a sunny side up egg with avocado and wheat toast. If you’re feeling more daring, the Buffalo Chicken Waffle comes complete with bleu cheese butter. Whatever you choose, the build your own mimosa bar will pair perfectly.
Photo by Caroline Grew
3. Taverna
Another Italian place that you may have been once or twice, but now that Mom and Dad are picking up the tab, it’s time to go and enjoy a three course meal. Taverna has more of a laid back atmosphere with simply great food. Even their starter bread and oil is second to none. They also have wine on tap – how can you beat that? Like we said, now that you’re not paying the bill, here’s what you should get from start to finish. First, order the antipasto platter. They give you tons of choices and you get to pick three of them. Get the house made mozzarella, prosciutto and the eggplant caponata. As far as an entree, the savory calamarata is awesome if you’re looking for a pasta dish. If pasta isn’t appealing, the saltimbocca is unbelievable. By some miracle, you’re not full yet. Finish with the apple cider doughnuts. You won’t care if it’s May when these babies come out warm and perfect.
Photo by Caroline Grew
4. Arena’s
Arena’s is new this year and the most underrated place on Main Street. It has a casual sports bar atmosphere with all of UD’s athletic greats hanging on the walls. When you’re there, you can’t help but feel like you’re a blue hen. It’s perfect for the family who is not looking for a fancy restaurant and just wants to relax and have fun after the ceremony. It’s especially great for a family with many different age groups. Arena’s has tons of sandwiches, salads and most importantly, 50+ beers available. Their huge selection of sandwiches can be overwhelming, but make sure you don’t miss the Hot Tots. Tater tots, melted cheese, jalapenos, sriracha ranch… oh yeah, and bacon. Top that.
Photo by Caroline Grew
5. Grotto Pizza
All of your older relatives have gone back to their hotel to go to bed. Lame. Grab your siblings, cousins and friends and head to Grottos for one last hurrah. UDon’t even go here if you have never been to Grottos so we all already know what it’s all about. Cheap liquor and good times. There’s not a better way to end your 4 years here than surrounded by family and friends at the bar all blue hens flock to one time or another. So raise a glass.
Photo by Caroline Grew
Let us know your pick for graduation weekend!