Introduction
Stomach rumbling after a long lecture in Chemistry building? Tired of the same old dining hall meals at Segundo or Tercero? Finding the perfect spot for a quick lunch, a celebratory dinner, or that much-needed caffeine fix can feel like a challenge when you’re navigating the bustling academic life around UC Davis. Fear not, fellow food enthusiasts! UC Davis and the surrounding city of Davis, California, boast a surprisingly diverse and delicious culinary landscape, offering everything from affordable eats to fine dining experiences. The challenge isn’t finding *any* food; it’s sifting through the options to discover the truly outstanding places that fit your cravings, budget, and schedule.
This article serves as your ultimate guide to navigating the fantastic food scene near UC Davis. We’ll explore a range of cuisines, price points, and atmospheres, helping you discover hidden gems and local favorites. Whether you’re a hungry student, a visiting professor, or a proud Aggie parent, this guide will provide you with the insider knowledge you need to make the most of your culinary adventures around UC Davis. Get ready to expand your palate and discover the best eats just beyond the Quad!
Defining “Near”: Exploring the Culinary Landscape
When we talk about “food near UC Davis,” we’re casting a fairly wide net to encompass the most convenient and accessible options for students and visitors. For this guide, “near” includes places that are easily reachable within a reasonable timeframe. We’re primarily focusing on restaurants and eateries within walking distance from campus, a short bike ride into downtown Davis, and a manageable drive for those with access to a car. This scope includes restaurants on campus, the core of downtown Davis, and a few spots just a bit further out that are popular with the UC Davis community. We believe this captures the best balance of convenience and variety.
The rationale behind this approach is simple: convenience matters! As students, staff, and faculty at UC Davis, accessibility is paramount. We are targeting the places that are within easy reach so that eating doesn’t add a chore to your already hectic lives. We aim to provide a helpful and relevant guide for those seeking delicious meals without compromising their time or transportation options. Now, let’s dive into the delicious details!
Fueling Up: The Best Food Categories Near Campus
Let’s break down the best options into helpful categories, covering everything from budget-friendly bites to special-occasion splurges.
Quick Bites and Casual Dining
Sometimes, all you need is a fast, affordable, and satisfying meal. Davis has plenty of options for those times when you’re short on time but big on hunger. Think pizza, sandwiches, burritos, and quick Asian fare. These establishments excel at speed and value, catering perfectly to the busy UC Davis lifestyle.
- Woodstock’s Pizza: A UC Davis staple, Woodstock’s Pizza is famous for its delicious pizza, lively atmosphere, and student-friendly deals. Their generous toppings and unique crust make it a campus favorite. Located right in downtown, it’s perfect for a group outing or a quick slice after class.
- Subway: For a customizable and affordable sandwich, Subway on Russell Boulevard is a reliable choice. They offer a variety of bread, fillings, and sauces, allowing you to create the perfect sandwich for your taste.
- Burgers and Brew: This classic burger joint on 2nd Street is well known for its huge variety of burgers and brews. It is a perfect place for a quick lunch or dinner with friends.
- Dos Coyotes Border Cafe: Craving Mexican food? Dos Coyotes Border Cafe offers a diverse menu of burritos, tacos, salads, and bowls, all made with fresh ingredients. They have multiple locations around Davis, making them a convenient option.
- Panda Express: For a quick Chinese food fix, Panda Express is a convenient option on campus. They offer a variety of classic dishes, such as orange chicken and Kung Pao chicken, in a fast-food setting.
These establishments provide a fast and inexpensive option. They allow for students to enjoy a tasty meal between class or after hours without breaking the bank.
Sit-Down Restaurants and Ethnic Cuisine
When you’re looking for a more relaxed dining experience and a chance to explore different flavors, Davis offers a fantastic selection of sit-down restaurants featuring diverse ethnic cuisines. From the fragrant spices of Thai food to the comforting warmth of Italian dishes, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
- Thai Canteen: This restaurant on G Street offers authentic, well-prepared thai dishes. The curries and noodles are sure to please!
- Sophia’s Thai Kitchen: A long-standing Davis favorite, Sophia’s Thai Kitchen on F Street serves authentic Thai cuisine in a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Their Pad Thai and curries are particularly popular.
- Seasons Restaurant: For fresh, seasonal American cuisine, Seasons Restaurant on 2nd Street is a local favorite. Their menu changes regularly to reflect the best available ingredients, ensuring a delicious and innovative dining experience. They also source many ingredients from the Davis Farmers Market.
- Mikuni Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar: If you’re in the mood for sushi, Mikuni Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar on Covell Boulevard is a must-try. They offer a wide selection of sushi rolls, nigiri, and other Japanese dishes, all made with fresh and high-quality ingredients.
- KetMoRee Restaurant: A modern Chinese restaurant that elevates the dining experience. They have creative options, good service, and a modern but welcoming ambiance.
Dining in at these establishments gives you a chance to explore and enjoy the different cuisines Davis has to offer. You can relax, enjoy and have a memorable time with friends and family.
Cafes and Bakeries: Your Daily Dose of Delicious
Need a caffeine fix? Looking for a cozy spot to study? Davis has a wonderful selection of cafes and bakeries that offer everything from expertly crafted coffee to delectable pastries and light meals. These are the perfect places to fuel your mind and satisfy your sweet tooth.
- Temple Coffee Roasters: A popular spot for coffee lovers, Temple Coffee Roasters on G Street offers a variety of high-quality coffee drinks and pastries. Their knowledgeable baristas and comfortable atmosphere make it a great place to relax or get some work done.
- Philz Coffee: A chain that specializes in unique coffee blends. They are well known for their mint mojito iced coffee, which is a favorite for students on hot Davis days.
- Village Bakery: A local favorite for freshly baked bread, pastries, and cakes, Village Bakery on 3rd Street is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. They also offer a selection of sandwiches and salads for a light lunch.
- Mishka’s Cafe: For a cozy and relaxed atmosphere, Mishka’s Cafe on 2nd Street is a popular choice. They offer a variety of coffee drinks, teas, pastries, and light meals. It’s a great place to meet friends or study for an exam.
- Dutch Bros Coffee: A west coast chain. Dutch Bros offers many customizable caffeinated drinks that are extremely popular with the college crowd.
These establishments are sure to keep you caffeinated throughout the day. Whether you need to cram before a test or you just want to enjoy a good drink, the cafes and bakeries around Davis have you covered.
Budget-Friendly Eats: Delicious Food Without Breaking the Bank
Being a student often means being on a tight budget, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice good food. Davis has plenty of options for affordable eats that will satisfy your cravings without emptying your wallet.
- Davis Farmers Market (Wednesday and Saturday): While not a restaurant, the Davis Farmers Market is a fantastic place to find fresh produce, prepared foods, and affordable meals. Many vendors offer samples and discounts, making it a great way to try new things without spending a lot of money.
- Ali Baba: This mediterranean restaurant on E Street is well known for its affordable gyros, falafel, and other middle eastern dishes. It is a perfect option for a quick meal.
- Taqueria El Burrito: With generous portions and affordable prices, Taqueria El Burrito on Pole Line Road is a popular choice for students craving Mexican food. Their burritos and tacos are a great value for money.
- Little Prague European Bakery & Delicatessen: A popular choice for students with sandwiches and pastries at an affordable price.
Fine Dining and Special Occasions
For those moments when you want to celebrate a special occasion or simply treat yourself to a memorable meal, Davis offers a selection of fine dining restaurants that deliver exceptional food, service, and ambiance.
- The Kitchen Restaurant: For a truly unforgettable dining experience, The Kitchen Restaurant in Sacramento (a short drive from Davis) offers a multi-course tasting menu that showcases the best of California cuisine. It’s a splurge, but one that is well worth it for a special occasion.
- Grange Restaurant & Bar: Located in The Citizen Hotel in Sacramento, Grange Restaurant & Bar offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients and modern American cuisine.
Vegetarian, Vegan, and Gluten-Free Options
Davis is a health-conscious community, and many restaurants cater to specific dietary needs, offering a wide range of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
- Loving Hut: A fully vegan restaurant on E Street offering Asian-inspired cuisine. Their diverse menu and commitment to plant-based eating make it a popular choice for vegans and vegetarians.
- Original Pete’s Restaurant & Brewhouse: For a variety of gluten-free options, Original Pete’s Restaurant & Brewhouse on Richards Boulevard offers a dedicated gluten-free menu with pizzas, pasta dishes, and other entrees.
- Pluto’s: This is a build your own salad and plate restaurant, offering a variety of options for many dietary restrictions.
Tips & Tricks for Eating Near UC Davis
- Transportation is Key: Take advantage of the Unitrans bus system, which offers convenient and affordable transportation around Davis. Biking is also a popular option, with dedicated bike lanes throughout the city. Walking is feasible for many locations close to campus.
- Student Discounts are Your Friend: Always ask if a restaurant offers student discounts. Many local businesses offer special deals to UC Davis students.
- Check Those Hours: Make sure to check the hours of operation, especially for smaller businesses, as they may have limited hours.
- Reservations Recommended: For popular restaurants, especially on weekends, making a reservation is highly recommended.
- Embrace Online Ordering and Delivery: Many restaurants offer online ordering and delivery services through platforms like Grubhub, DoorDash, and Uber Eats.
- Don’t Forget the Davis Farmers Market: The Davis Farmers Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays offers a fantastic opportunity to support local farmers and enjoy fresh, seasonal food.
Conclusion
From quick bites to fine dining, the food scene near UC Davis is diverse, delicious, and ready to be explored. With a plethora of options to fit any craving, any budget, and any dietary need, there’s no excuse for eating boring food! So, ditch the dining hall routine, grab your friends, and embark on a culinary adventure around Davis. Don’t be afraid to try new things, discover hidden gems, and support local businesses.
We encourage you to explore the restaurants, cafes, and markets mentioned in this guide and share your own favorite spots with the UC Davis community. What are your go-to restaurants? What dishes do you always recommend? Let us know in the comments below! Happy eating, Aggies!
