Whether it’s a cozy cafe to grab a coffee and snack while studying or a fancy date night spot, a delicious meal can be just what you need to get through a tough week. This article acts as a guide for spots on and off campus that are Western-student approved!
Banana Burger
Located a short walk from campus (and available with flex dollars!), this casual burger spot is a go-to for late night eats. The “Binky Burger” is a favourite for many western students. Overall this is where to go if you:
- Are near campus
- Want to use some flex dollars
- Love burgers, fries, & banana pudding!
Casa Burrito
Tucked inside of the Nat Sci Nucleus, Casa Burrito is a great lunch spot to grab a burrito, burrito bowl, or quesadilla. Keep in mind, this spot is closed on weekends and evenings, but head here if you:
- Want a balanced meal to energize you before your lecture
- Are craving Chipotle but want to stay on campus (and avoid the delivery fees!)
- Want great service & great taste
The Mule
For a lively spot that serves Mexican food and fun margaritas, try the Mule. Located on Richmond Street, this restaurant is perfect for a date night or a fun brunch with friends. Additionally, the Mule is perfect for accommodating dietary restrictions, as they have many vegetarian and vegan options and an entirely gluten-free menu. Check out the Mule if you:
- Want an Instagram-worthy atmosphere
- Love tacos with a creative spin on them (brussel sprout tacos? Sweet potato halloumi tacos?)
- Love when a restaurant has a good playlist
Merla-Mae Ice Cream
Once in a while you need a sweet treat, and if the freezer-burnt ice cream from the back of your freezer isn’t cutting it – this might be the spot for you. Merla-Mae Ice Cream has been in London for over 70 years, with a retro aesthetic to match. It might be hard to choose a sundae or shake from all the mouth-watering options, but whatever choice you make will definitely satisfy that sweet tooth. Come to Merla-Mae Ice Cream if you:
- Respect commitment to a theme
- Want to try unique ice cream treats
- Need an ice cream cake for a special occasion
Spageddy Eddy’s
This casual dining spot is both well-known and a hidden gem in the sense that their big bowls of pasta have been serving Londoners for 25 years but the restaurant is literally hidden in an alley off Richmond Street. Definitely the most eccentric spot on the list, their quirky decor and massive portion sizes make this restaurant a must-visit in your time at Western. Come to Spageddy Eddy’s if you:
- Are always asking for refills on your sodas (trust me, you won’t need to do that here)
- Love carbs in any form
- Appreciate getting served enough food to bring home leftovers
Buzz Bagelz
When the brutalist architecture and overwhelming vibe of Weldon is a little too sad for your study sessions, check out Buzz Bagelz! With plenty of options for bagel sandwiches and caffeinated beverages, this is a great spot to grab a bite to eat, put on your noise-cancelling headphones, and lock in. Even if not to study, the bagels are good enough to come to Dundas Street for anyway. Try Buzz Bagelz if you:
- Used up all your flex dollars getting bagels at the Spoke
- Have a slight caffeine addiction
- Want to try a New York-style bagel sandwich without buying a plane ticket.
Whether this list inspired you to try out some new spots or not, London has no shortage of dining options - on and off campus. Sharing a great dinner for a special occasion, grabbing bagels after a night out with friends, or enjoying a possibly overpriced coffee while you study are all part of the university experience.