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Restaurants to Celebrate At After Graduation in Guelph

This article is written by a student writer from the Spoon University at Guelph chapter.

After a long graduation ceremony, or a long exam, who doesn’t enjoy a celebratory meal with family and friends?

We’ve compiled a small directory of places you might consider for your post-graduation meal. Included are some pricier options–because you’ve earned it–as well as some more economical options if you have a larger group.

Regardless of your choice, rest-assured that these are are all some of Guelph’s most solid choices for family or group dining, and will leave you feeling like the satisfied young adult that you are.

Downtown

Bread Bar

graduation restaurants

Photo by Cheryl Ching

A newcomer to the Guelph restaurant scene, the Bread Bar has a varied menu featuring a variety of shared plates, vegetarian options and of course.. bread.

Buon Gusto

graduation restaurants

Photo courtesy of Buon Gusto

Located in the historic Victoria Hotel building in St. George’s Square in Downtown Guelph, the atmosphere of Buon Gusto is warm and casual. A wood burning oven made in Italy is used to prepare their famous pizzas. Fresh and seasonal ingredients and traditional Italian cuisine are the specialty of head chef Dave Manno.

Bin23

graduation restaurants

Photo by Matt Tonkin

Considered the most elegant for fine dining in Guelph, the modern decor of Bin23 and their delectable cuisine will make you feel like an adult in no time.

Babelfish Bistro

graduation restaurants

Photo courtesy of Urbanspoon

Serving upscale comfort foods in a urban setting, Babelfish Bistro is another independently owned Guelph restaurant that is known for their Continental-style cusine and lavish meat and seafood dishes. This space is small, so call ahead if you can.

The Ox

graduation restaurants

Photo by Cheryl Ching

With excellent pizzas, burgers and daily specials, the Ox has quickly become a Guelph favourite since opening 3 years ago. The numerous out-side-the box pizza varieties on the menu will open your eyes and taste buds to the road ahead of you.

North End

Romero’s

graduation restaurants

Photo courtesy of Romero’s

A casual Mediterranean eatery located at the corner of Speedvale Ave and Elmira Road in Guelph.

Café Greek Garden

graduation restaurants

Photo courtesy of Cafe Greek Garden

Old-world charm can be found at this long-time favorite of many Gryphons. Casual dining for the loud and large. Opa!

South End

Borealis

graduation restaurants

Photo by Cheryl Ching

A mainstay for classy local eats, Borealis is sure to please a variety of palates with their seasonal menus. Choose between the more formal dining room, pub-side, or outdoor patio.

State & Main

graduation restaurants

Photo courtesy of State & Main

Including a gluten sensitive menu, the up-scale pub fare of State & Main is warming and hearty, and served in a classy atmosphere. They also have a patio so you can sit outside.

The Keg

graduation restaurants

Photo courtesy of The Keg Guelph

A classic choice for celebratory dinners, the newly opened Keg Guelph is a great option for the steak enthusiast.

Manhattan’s

graduation restaurants

Photo by MacKenzie Chee

This bistro and music club is an independently owned Guelph favourite that boasts a unique dining experience featuring live music almost every night of the week. Perfect for convincing your parents that your tastes are now refined after graduating. Make sure to arrive early or make reservations, as space is limited.

For more awesome places to eat out, check out these articles:

Brandon is a Graduate Student of Food Science at the University of Guelph. His research focus is in enhancing the properties of biobased plastic films. He is passionate about incorporating innovation and sustainability in the design of new commercial food products, and is TA for an Undergraduate Course in Food Product Development. He has completed co-op work terms at Canada Bread as a Product Development technician, and at Senseint Flavors Inc. in as a Quality Control technician. His inspiration for a career in food industry came while working as a produce clerk at a FreshCo. (Sobey's Inc.) in his hometown of Brampton Ont. Brandon also enjoys gardening, home-brewing, running absurdly long distances, spinning, and yoga. He's been told he's a good cook, and can often be found in the kitchen cooking up mostly Italian-inspired cuisine, with the occasional Thai, Persian, or Indian dish