When arriving at the University of Delaware, you might look down Main Street and think, is this really all the food choices I get for four years? Fear not, because Newark is home to some ridiculously yummy food, you just need to know where to look. This list is a guide to the things you absolutely have to try before graduating.
1. Nachos from Santa Fe Mexican Grill
Photo courtesy of @catiefinn on Instagram
These nachos are the perfect bite every time thanks to the perfectly layered toppings throughout, a difficult feat for nachos. Plus they add on a creamy salsa Azteca that make these nachos some of the best in Newark.
2. Chicken Salad Bagel from Newark Deli and Bagels
Photo courtesy of @styledye on Instagram
No matter what day of the week this place has a line to the door, and for a good reason. Bro Bible even named it the best college hangover breakfast spot in the country. Their bacon, egg and cheese is a classic option, but you have to try their chicken salad on a toasted everything bagel. Add on tomatoes, cheddar, and bacon for an unforgettable sandwich.
3. Empanadas from Cafe Ole
Photo courtesy of @picagaug on Instagram
This restaurant has delicious Spanish-style tapas that you wont find anywhere else on Main Street. A must try is their empanadas. Whether its the steak and blue cheese, pictured above, or the vegetable and goat cheese, you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious fried treat to satisfy anyone’s tastes.
4. Ramen from Ramen Kumamoto
Photo courtesy of @lisannyn on Instagram
This place is hidden right off of Main Street, and it is easily one of the most unique eating places you’ll find. They have eight different versions of ramen, plus traditional Japanese appetizers and desserts for you to slurp, sip, and munch on.
5. Crabby fries from Home Grown Cafe
Photo courtesy of @spoon_ud on Instagram
Home Grown Cafe took their famous crab fondue and did the only thing to make it better: put it on french fries. Grab a fork and dig into this with friends, or alone. No one’s judging.
6. Maple Bacon Donut from Duck Donuts
Photo courtesy of @missmelshaw on Instagram
Donuts are the perfect sweet treat, and at Duck Donuts you get to make your own flavors to create an ideal bite. You have to try the fan favorite combination of maple icing and bacon.
7. Cheesesteak Egg Rolls from Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant
Photo courtesy of @udfoodie on Instagram
Iron hill took the classic cheesesteak and shoved them in an egg roll, making this a delicious fusion of flavors and the perfect bite of comfort food.
8. Avocado on Focaccia from Central Perk Cafe
Photo courtesy of @thezivster on Instagram
If you haven’t heard of the avo on focaccioa, do you even go to UD? By combining avocado, cucumber, mozzarella, and pesto this sandwich is a hands down favorite amongst Main Street eaters.
9. Mac and Cheese Pizza from Peace a Pizza
Photo courtesy of @bigfoodiehoes on Instagram
This one is a no brainer. Take two of everyone’s favorite foods and combine them to make a delicious bite of pizza and mac and cheese.
11. Banh Mi Sandwiches from Banh Mi Boys
Photo courtesy of @catvo on Instagram
Banh Mi is a Vietnamese sandwich known for being filling and cheap. With this spot’s five variations of the sandwich, you can’t go wrong. Get one and wash it down with a traditional Vietnamese coffee.
12. Sushi Burrito from Del Pez Mexican Gastropub
Photo courtesy of yelp.com
Thanks to Del Pez you don’t need to travel all the way to Philly to get that perfect Instagram of a sushirito. Available only during lunch, these are the perfect snack. Its basically just a larger, uncut version of a sushi roll, but so much more fun to eat.
13. Pizza from Wood Fired Pizza Shop
Photo courtesy of @brovvy on Instagram
Located on Cleveland Ave. this pizza shop is a huge step up from Pizza chains like Pat’s, Dominos, or Seasons. Besides their classic pizzas they also consistently have seasonal pizzas which have included french toast pizza, cheesesteak pizza, and more. Check out the fighting blue hen pizza, complete with grilled chicken, buffalo sauce, and gorgonzola.
14. Triple Triple burger from Jake’s Wayback Burgers
Photo courtesy of @mr.legacy_49 on Instagram
Think of the best burger you’ve ever had. Now had eight more beef patties to it, and you’ve got the triple triple burger. Its a monster of a burger, but so delicious it might just be worth trying to eat in one sitting. Fair warning though, this guy will set you back 5,100 calories. Its all about balance, right?
15. Ice Cream from UDairy Creamery
Photo courtesy of @morganludwicki on Instagram
If you’re going to eat ice cream at school, its got to be from the school’s on campus creamery. Lucky for us, its sold at multiple locations on campus so you don’t have to trek down to south campus to eat it. Also look out for the UDairy’s ice cream truck on campus for a quick treat between class.
16. Chicken Parmesan Sandwich from Primo Hoagies
Photo courtesy of Julie Solomon
This sandwich has everything you could ever want, crispy breaded chicken, yummy sauce, all smothered with stretchy mozzarella cheese. This is just one of the amazing hoagies sold here, and after one bite you’ll be coming back weekly.
17. Sushi from Little Teriyaki
Photo courtesy of @morganludwicki on Instagram
With the closing of Mizu sushi on Main Street, students turned to Little Teriyaki as their go-to sushi place, and for good reason. Their rolls are cheap and delicious. They also have a host of other dishes like pad thai and fried rice to satisfy everyone’s tastes.
18. Wrap from Brewed Awakening
Photo courtesy of @carlyvillane on Instagram
This coffee shop is the ultimate hidden gem on Main Street, and it churns out some seriously delicious wraps, sandwiches, and soups. The traditional side of sour cream and onion chips is always a welcome sight.
19. Death Fries from Arena’s Deli
Photo courtesy of @shayla_crayola on Instagram
Arena’s has some seriously addicting snacks, including these death fries. Topped with a perfect mix of cheese, bacon, ranch, and barbecue sauce, these are the ultimate bar food. Want an upgrade? Ask for them to be made with tater tots.
20. The Bobbie from Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop
Photo courtesy of @capriottis on Instagram
The Bobbie is Capriotti’s nationally best selling sandwich, and for a good reason. All of your favorite things from Thanksgiving: turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce, are married perfectly between a hoagie roll. So what are you waiting for?
21. Buffalo Mac and Cheese from Mad-Macs
Photo courtesy of @dope_danny666 on Instagram
Yes, there really are noodles under all of that cheese. This buffalo chicken mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food. Buffalo sauce not your thing? There are over 10 different varieties of mac and cheese to choose from. Plus, they have the option of gluten free noodles for all the celiacs out there.
22. Breakfast Sandwich from Brew Ha Ha
Photo courtesy of @girlcarnivore on Instagram
The best thing to go with your morning coffee? A delicious breakfast sandwich, like this egg and cheese sandwich on a pepper-cheddar biscuit. Make sure to try the Florentine sandwich, which includes red pepper spread and mango chutney.
23. Dumplings from Wandering Chef Cart
Photo courtesy of @wanderingcart on Instagram
This food cart is so well known for their signature item many students still call it “dumpling cart” instead of its actual name. The dumplings are cheap and delicious, make sure to get a double order because you’ll definitely want more. You can find the cart outside of Smith Hall selling its signature Cuban and Asian fusion food daily.
24. Kebobs from Ali Baba’s
Photo courtesy of @wrivero1 on Instagram
Many only hear of Ali Baba because of the hookah, but their food is ridiculously good, and probably has the best hummus you’ll ever get on Main Street. A must try is the kafta kabob, consisting of charbroiled ground beef, parsley, onions, and spices served on a bed of middle eastern rice.
25. Dessert Nachos from Grain Craft Bar+Kitchen
Photo courtesy of @kristinmikles on Instagram
Your favorite food just got turned into a dessert. The concoction is topped with ice cream, reeses, m&m’s, and more.
26. Crab and Shrimp Capellini from Caffe Gelato
Photo courtesy of @caffegelatodelaware on Instagram
This pasta dish is a seafood lovers dream. Lump crab and sautéed shrimp tossed in the restaurant’s signature ‘crab rosa’ sauce over house-crafted capellini pasta. Take your parents here and get this dish asap.
27. Gourmet Hotdogs from Stone Balloon Ale House
Photo courtesy of @stoneballoonalehouse on Instagram
You read that right. And Thursday through Saturday 10 p.m. to close,
they’re only $3 dollars. Whether you’re looking for some delicious new food combos or a cheap bite, make sure you try these bad boys.
28. Avocado Powerhouse from Nutter’s Sandwich Shoppe
Photo courtesy of @betch_peas on Instagram
This sandwich is so pretty you might not want to eat it, and each one includes A WHOLE avocado. The sides of grapes and chips are signatures of this place, and make the drive worth it.
29. Buffalo Mac and Cheese Dollar Slices from Klondike Kate’s
Photo by Hannah Tate
As you’re stumbling home late at night on Main Street, make your way straight to Klondike Kate’s. They sell pizza sliced for one dollar, which you can get topped with buffalo mac and cheese. Your stomach and wallet will be extremely happy.
30. Chunky Monkey Smoothie from Cafe 67
Photo courtesy of @loandlemons on Instagram
This is the perfect thing for when you want a sweet treat, but also want to feel healthy. Check out all the yummy fresh baked goods and pre-made food up for grabs too.
31. Dumpling Burrito from Wandering Chef Cart
Photo courtesy of Hannah Tate on Instagram
Just when you thought the dumplings couldn’t get better, the Wandering Cart put them in a burrito. The whole thing is filled with rice, a protein, and their signature dumplings. The flavors switch from week to week, ranging from jerk chicken with pineapple salsa or buffalo chicken.
32. Honey Basil Grilled Cheese from Timothy’s of Newark
Photo courtesy of @aubsznicole on Instagram
This sandwich gives grilled cheese a seriously delicious and unique upgrade. It’s a stack of melted goodness with mozzarella, fontina, fresh basil, tomato and a hint of honey served between sourdough bread slices.
33. Gyro from Mediterannean Grille
Photo courtesy of yelp.com
This gyro platter is a lot of bang for your buck. A delicious mix of your choice of protein smothered with lettuce, tomatoes, and Tzatziki sauce folded between a toasted pita. All with a side of fries and a greek salad with slabs of feta cheese.
34. Calamari Appetizer from Taverna Restaurant
Photo courtesy of yelp.com
If you’ve been to Taverna and haven’t had this dish, you are seriously missing out. It takes the classic favorite of fried calamari and tops it with pickled chiles with an out of this world tomato jam and lemon aioli.
35. Brunch from Grain Craft Bar+Kitchen
Photo courtesy of @nkcme5 on Instagram
Between the pound cake french toast, acai bowl, Boston creme pancakes, and more, this is one of the best brunch stops on campus. They even have a burger called the hangover helper complete with a fried egg, tater tots, and barbecue sauce.
36. Burrito bowl from El Diablo Burritos
Photo courtesy of @crazel6 on Instagram
This place has turned even some of the most loyal Chipotle customers into die hard fans, one reason being the ginormous burrito bowls. With over 15 options for toppings like goat cheese, pickled shallots, and pinaepple habanero salsa, you can’t go wrong.
37. Onigiri and Takoyaki from TeaDo Contemporary Tea House
Photo courtesy of @propheticshinobi on Instagram
They may be hard to pronounce, but these traditional Japanese snacks are delicious to eat. Onigiri is white rice formed into triangular or cylinder shapes and often wrapped in nori with different fillings, sort of like a sushi taco. Takoyaki is a ball-shaped, wheat flour snack traditionally filled with octopus and topped with a sauce and shavings of dried bonito. Try both for a unique treat.
38. Tandoor Chicken from Tavva Indian Cafe
Photo courtesy of tavva_indian_cafe on Instagram
This place is serving up delicious traditional Indian food, including Tandoor chicken. Whether you’re a fan or a newbie, definitely check out this authentic Indian cuisine.
39. Bacon Egg and Cheese from Hot Bagels
Photo courtesy of @leamari3x on Instagram
When you’re too hungover to stand in the long line at Newark Deli and Bagels, come here to get your breakfast fix. The classic bacon, egg, and cheese is as cheesy as it is delicious.
40. Berry and Ricotta Crepes from Caffe Gelato
Photo courtesy of @chelango on Instagram
The only place you can get crepes on campus, available during their Sunday brunch. This one includes strawberries, blueberries and raspberries, whipped sweet ricotta and a honey-orange sauce. All with a side of vanilla gelato with granola and berries. Can it be the weekend already?
41. Slices from Margherita’s Pizza
Courtesy of yelp.com
You can’t say you’re truly a student here until you’ve had one of the large slices from Margherita’s. Whether you’re passing it on the way home from class or looking for drunk munchies, these slices are a must.
42. Vegetarian Platter from Ali Baba’s
Photo courtesy of @everybodybevegan on Instagram
We didn’t forget about the vegetarians. This is one of the best deals you’ll see on Main Street. You get a monster plate of falafel, stuffed grape leaves, baba ghanouj, tabouli and hommus, all for 12 bucks. I’d challenge you to eat the whole thing in one sitting, but the leftovers are the best part.
43. Golden Chimichanga from Santa Fe Mexican Grill
Photo courtesy of yelp.com
This is basically a burrito fried and smothered in cheese and sour cream. Need I say more?
44. Trash Can Nachos from Klondike Kate’s
Photo courtesy of @spoon_ud on Instagram
This is probably one of the things students can consistently agree on: Tuesdays are for Klondike Kates nachos. You can get them for 1/2 price, and if you’re going to get the nachos, they need to be the garbage can nachos, topped with everything you could think of and more.
45. Buffalo Chicken and Waffles from Home Grown Cafe
Photo courtesy of yelp.com
A classic staple of the south, chicken and waffles can be hard to find in Delaware, let alone Newark. Home Grown Cafe takes the classic dish and upgrades them with buffalo sauce for a delicious brunch meal that can’t be beat.
46. Jameson Irish Whiskey Wings from Catherine Rooney’s
Photo courtesy of yelp.com
Did someone say whiskey and wings? This place takes classic chicken wings and coats them in a sauce infused with Jameson Irish whiskey. Its a match made in wing heaven.
47. Crab Bisque from Nutter’s Sandwich Shop
Photo courtesy of mynutters.com
This is what Nutter’s is famous for, and for a good reason. Its thick, creamy, and full of delicious crab meat. You’ll be craving it before you’ve even finished it.
48. Huevos Rancheros from Del Pez Mexican Gastropub
Photo courtesy of @udfoodie on Instagram
This is a delicious, upscale version of the classic Mexican breakfast. Tortillas topped with cheese, a fried egg, and delicious spicy sauce will make your morning the best part of your day.
49. Meatball Sandwich from Stone Balloon Ale House
Photo courtesy of @girlcarnivore on Instagram
Garlic and herb meatballs with spicy pomodoro sauce and mozzarella cheese on a fresh baked roll. It takes your classic meatball sub and gives it a huge upgrade, and just look at all the cheese.
50. Rigatoni and Sausage from Taverna Restaurant
Photo courtesy of @lavy59 on Instagram
After you’ve ordered the calamari app, this is the next thing on your list. It has all the things you want in a pasta dish. Its filling, saucy, with delicious crumbled sausage and a kick of red pepper.
So whether you’re a freshman or senior, make sure you can check off all these spots before wearing your cap and gown.