Craving a late-night snack after hitting the books? Need a quick lunch between lectures? Or perhaps you’re just visiting the beautiful campus of St. Thomas University and eager to dive into the local food scene? Whatever your reason, finding delicious and convenient food options near campus is essential for students, faculty, and visitors alike. St. Thomas University, nestled in the heart of St. Paul, Minnesota, offers a vibrant academic environment. But let’s be honest, even the most dedicated students and professors need to fuel up to succeed. This guide is your go-to resource for discovering the best restaurants, cafes, and eateries near St. Thomas University, catering to a wide range of tastes, budgets, and schedules. So, ditch the dining hall routine (at least sometimes!) and prepare to embark on a culinary adventure around campus.
Quick Bites and Cafes: Perfect for Lunch and Study Sessions
When time is of the essence and you need a quick and affordable bite, or a caffeine boost to power through your studies, these nearby cafes and quick-service spots are your saviors. They offer the perfect blend of convenience and quality, making them ideal for busy students and staff.
One of the closest options to campus, literally just steps away, is Claddagh Coffee. This cozy cafe is a haven for coffee lovers. They boast an impressive selection of expertly crafted coffee drinks, from classic lattes to unique specialty blends. Beyond the caffeine, Claddagh Coffee also offers a selection of pastries, sandwiches, and light lunch options. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, making it a popular spot for students looking to study alone or meet up with friends. With its convenient location and welcoming vibe, Claddagh Coffee is the perfect place to start your day, grab a quick lunch, or fuel up for an afternoon of studying. The price range is generally budget-friendly, making it accessible to students on a tight budget. It’s best for a quick caffeine fix, grabbing a sandwich to go, or settling in for a focused study session.
A little further afield, but still easily accessible, you’ll find Breadsmith. This bakery is a local treasure known for its freshly baked artisan breads, pastries, and sandwiches. The aroma alone is enough to draw you in! Breadsmith offers a variety of delicious and satisfying options, from hearty sandwiches made with their signature breads to sweet treats that will satisfy any craving. They also have a daily soup special which can be a great warming and budget friendly lunch option. While it’s not strictly a cafe, Breadsmith offers a comfortable and welcoming space to enjoy your meal. It’s a great place to grab a quick lunch or a snack, and the quality of the ingredients is always top-notch. The price range is slightly higher than Claddagh Coffee, but the quality and portion sizes make it well worth the cost. Breadsmith is best for grabbing a delicious sandwich, satisfying a sweet tooth, or picking up a loaf of bread to take home.
For those days when you need something even quicker, consider a stop at Target. While not a restaurant, Target offers a surprisingly decent selection of grab-and-go items, including sandwiches, salads, wraps, and snacks. It’s a convenient option for those who are already running errands or need to pick up something else while they’re out. Target also offers a wide variety of drinks, from bottled water to energy drinks, ensuring you stay hydrated and energized. The price range is very affordable, making it a great option for students on a strict budget. Target is best for grabbing a quick snack, picking up a drink, or getting a last-minute lunch when you’re short on time.
Casual Dining and Restaurants: Good for Groups and Dinner
When you’re looking for a place to sit down, relax, and enjoy a more substantial meal with friends or family, these casual dining restaurants offer a variety of options to suit different tastes and preferences.
A perennial favorite among St. Thomas students is Davanni’s Pizza and Hot Hoagies. Davanni’s is a local institution known for its delicious pizza, hot hoagies, and lively atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to gather with friends for a casual dinner or celebrate a special occasion. The menu offers a wide variety of pizzas, from classic pepperoni to more adventurous toppings, as well as a selection of hot hoagies, salads, and appetizers. Davanni’s also offers a selection of beers and wines, making it a great place to unwind after a long day. The price range is moderate, making it accessible to students and families alike. Davanni’s is best for groups, celebrations, pizza lovers, and those looking for a fun and relaxed atmosphere. A specific menu recommendation would definitely be the classic Pepperoni pizza or a hot hoagie of your choice – they’re always a winner!
For those craving a taste of Mexico, El Burrito Mercado is a fantastic choice. This vibrant restaurant and market offers authentic Mexican cuisine in a lively and colorful setting. El Burrito Mercado is a true cultural experience, with a wide variety of traditional dishes, from tacos and burritos to enchiladas and tamales. They also have a full bar, offering a selection of Mexican beers, margaritas, and other cocktails. The atmosphere is festive and welcoming, making it a great place to celebrate with friends or family. The price range is moderate, and the portions are generous, making it a great value for your money. El Burrito Mercado is best for those seeking authentic Mexican cuisine, a vibrant atmosphere, and a taste of Mexican culture. Don’t miss out on their delicious tacos or the flavorful enchiladas – they’re a true crowd-pleaser!
If you’re looking for classic American comfort food, Red Cow is the place to be. Known for its gourmet burgers, craft beers, and lively atmosphere, Red Cow offers a satisfying and delicious dining experience. Red Cow is a step up from your average burger joint, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and creative flavor combinations. The menu features a variety of burgers, from the classic cheeseburger to more adventurous options with toppings like bacon jam, truffle aioli, and blue cheese. They also have a great selection of appetizers, salads, and sides, as well as a wide variety of craft beers on tap. The price range is moderate, but the quality and flavor of the food make it well worth the cost. Red Cow is best for burger lovers, craft beer enthusiasts, and those looking for a fun and lively atmosphere. Definitely try one of their signature burgers – you won’t be disappointed!
International Flavors: Explore Diverse Cuisines
Expand your culinary horizons and explore the diverse flavors of the world with these nearby restaurants offering a variety of international cuisines.
For a taste of Thailand, Ruam Mit Thai is an excellent choice. This cozy restaurant offers authentic Thai cuisine in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Ruam Mit Thai’s menu features a variety of classic Thai dishes, from Pad Thai and green curry to Tom Yum soup and mango sticky rice. They use fresh, high-quality ingredients and prepare each dish with care, ensuring an authentic and flavorful experience. The price range is moderate, and the portions are generous, making it a great value for your money. Ruam Mit Thai is best for those seeking authentic Thai cuisine, a relaxed atmosphere, and a flavorful dining experience. The Pad Thai and Green Curry are highly recommended.
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean at Mediterranean Cruise Cafe. This popular restaurant offers a diverse menu of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes in a warm and inviting setting. From gyros and falafel to shawarma and hummus, Mediterranean Cruise Cafe offers a wide variety of flavorful and satisfying options. They also have a selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. The price range is moderate, and the portions are generous, making it a great value for your money. Mediterranean Cruise Cafe is best for those seeking Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, a warm atmosphere, and flavorful dishes. Try the Gyro or Falafel plate.
For a taste of India, India House is a great choice. This restaurant offers authentic Indian cuisine in a casual and welcoming setting. India House is known for its flavorful curries, tandoori dishes, and biryanis. They also offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions. The price range is moderate, and the portions are generous, making it a great value for your money. India House is best for those seeking authentic Indian cuisine, a casual atmosphere, and flavorful dishes. Their Butter Chicken and Chicken Tikka Masala are highly recommended.
Late Night Eats: For Those Late Study Sessions
When hunger strikes late at night, and you need a quick and convenient option, these late-night eateries have you covered.
A classic late-night option is always pizza delivery. Many pizza places around St. Thomas University offer late-night delivery services, ensuring you can get a hot and delicious pizza delivered right to your door, even in the wee hours of the morning. Check for local pizza places that stay open late, offering online ordering and quick delivery times. The price range varies depending on the pizza place and your order, but it’s generally an affordable option for a late-night snack. Pizza delivery is best for those who are craving pizza, don’t want to leave their dorm or apartment, and need a quick and convenient option.
Another convenient option is Jimmy John’s. Known for their quick and efficient sandwich delivery, Jimmy John’s is a great choice for a late-night meal. They offer a variety of sandwiches, chips, and drinks, and their delivery service is typically very fast. While not open as late as some other options, they are a reliable choice for a late-night bite. The price range is affordable, making it a great option for students on a budget. Jimmy John’s is best for those who want a quick and easy sandwich delivered right to their door.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Venture beyond the well-known spots and discover these hidden gems and local favorites that offer unique and memorable dining experiences.
One of the true hidden gems near St. Thomas University is The Nook. This cozy bar and restaurant offers a unique and eclectic menu, with a focus on burgers, sandwiches, and tater tots. The Nook is known for its creative flavor combinations, friendly service, and laid-back atmosphere. It’s a great place to grab a bite with friends or unwind after a long day. What makes it special is the unique and quirky atmosphere, as well as the delicious and creative menu. The price range is moderate, and the portions are generous, making it a great value for your money. The Nook is best for those seeking a unique and memorable dining experience, friendly service, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Another local favorite is Caspers & Runyon’s Nook Located in a historic building and known for their juicy burgers and extensive tap list. This is a local spot with good food and a great selection of beers. Their portions are large and prices are fair. This makes it a great choice for students and families looking for a place to eat out in the area.
Budget-Friendly Options
For students on a tight budget, these restaurants offer delicious and affordable meals that won’t break the bank.
Claddagh Coffee, Target (grab-and-go), Davanni’s Pizza, and Jimmy John’s all offer budget-friendly options that are accessible to students on a tight budget. Many of these restaurants also offer student discounts, happy hour deals, and other promotions that can help you save money on food. Taking advantage of on-campus dining plans can also be a great way to save money on food.
Here are some additional tips for saving money on food near St. Thomas University:
- Look for student discounts.
- Take advantage of happy hour deals.
- Cook your own meals whenever possible.
- Pack your own lunch.
- Share meals with friends.
- Look for coupons and promotions.
Conclusion
As you can see, the area surrounding St. Thomas University is bursting with diverse and delicious food options. From quick bites and cafes to casual dining restaurants and international flavors, there’s something for every taste and budget. So, whether you’re a student, faculty member, or visitor, don’t hesitate to explore the local food scene and discover your own favorite spots. Get out there, try something new, and savor the culinary delights that St. Paul has to offer! What are your personal favorite places to eat near St. Thomas University? Share your recommendations in the comments below! We’d love to hear them!
