Nearby Restaurants That On-Campus Students Should Check Out
If you’re like me and always craving some new food but are limited to the options on the University at Buffalo’s meal swipe system, I share your feelings of frustration being caught in a similar food rut.
Although the “award-winning” on-campus food gives UB students the benefit of convenience and effortless dining for a somewhat reasonable price, the options lack the variety and excitement that satisfies a lot of appetites.
That — along with the lack of flexibility in their operating hours (seriously, almost every location is closed on weekends) — makes for a rough time. The seemingly endless repetition of campus food can make dining on UB’s campus feel like a chore rather than a treat, especially for those who cannot afford to buy groceries to prepare food for themselves.
The issue isn’t just the taste, however. Sometimes, students need a reason to break the monotony of their academic routines and venture off campus for some good grub. Getting away from the overcrowded dining halls, the lines at the Student Union, and the uncertainty of whether your order actually gets processed on the GET app can make a huge difference in your dietary satisfaction.
Fortunately, there are plenty of not-so-hidden gems by UB’s north & south campus where you can find a range of different cuisines and dishes to choose from. With just a short drive or walk, you’ll find some of the best spots for whatever style of food you’re looking for. Whether it’s a quick bite or a relaxing meal, there’s plenty of local kitchens that can help you break the dullness of campus dining.
From comfort food with a twist, to international flavors, here are some must-try restaurants that students who live on a UB Campus should check out at least once.
- FORNO NAPOLI: 1280 Sweet Home Rd Ste 105
Situated conveniently in the heart of Amherst, right by one of the most popular off-campus residence buildings for UB students, Forno Napoli is an authentic Italian restaurant specializing in neapolitan style pizza, pastas, and other traditional Italian dishes – bringing a taste of Naples to Western New York. The second-generation family owned restaurant has built its reputation on a commitment to authentic recipes, high-quality ingredients, and a passion for Italian cuisine.
Their wood-fired pizzas are a standout, with each one being made using traditional methods that were passed down from generation to generation. Each one is made using San Marzano tomatoes (which are only grown on the volcanic soil off of Mount Vesuvius), dough made from imported Italian flours, and cooked to perfection in their Acunto oven, allowing each pie to achieve the hallmark thin, slightly charred crust with a soft interior. A seemingly simple yet a very effective approach in the art of pizza-making.
The overall atmosphere of the restaurant is a welcoming and inviting one. When you enter, you are immediately greeted by the old-school wooden decor with the glow from the oven within eyeshot. The flags that are hung around the restaurant allow customers to feel the Italian pride from the kitchen. The owners and staff further elevate the positive ambience as they take the time to be hospitable and friendly towards anybody who is dining in.
Although the layout of the restaurant may make it appear to be a typical ‘sit down and order’ type deal, this is not the case. Instead, as soon as you walk in, you are greeted by an attendant behind the counter who is ready to hand you a menu and take your order, allowing for a more streamlined system. Once your food is ready, you can find any open seat and chow down.
If you’re in the mood to indulge even further, their dessert options are also a must-try. Cannoli’s, gelato, eclair’s; what more could you ask for?
While some of their options may be out of a student price range, this is definitely a place you should try at least once. No doubt, this is one of the better places to eat off campus.
- KALYPSO: 12 Winspear Avenue
For anybody looking for some good Caribbean cuisine, look no further than this Jamaican-American kitchen. Located right by the University’s school of Pharmacy, Kalypso is a great spot for anybody who is looking to try fresh, authentic Jamaican-style food.
Their menu features a wide variety of different Jamaican foods that are a staple in their rich culinary culture. Some of their most well known options are their tender jerk chicken, curry goat, and their oxtail dishes. Each plate is accompanied by classic sides like rice as well as cabbage and veggies, ensuring an authentic taste experience.The portions are also quite generous, making it a great value for locals and students alike who are looking for a satisfying meal.
In addition to their traditional meat dishes, Kalypso also offers vegetarian options for those seeking plant-based meals without compromising on flavor.
The cozy and casual atmosphere of the restaurant’s interior gives guests a perfect balance of simplicity and warmth. Its straightforward seating setup and smaller, more intimate space gives guests a welcoming environment; almost like that feeling you get when you’re visiting a relative over the holidays (happy thanksgiving!).
Every visit feels unique yet down-to-earth thanks to the interior’s subtle charm and the rich smell of freshly made Jamaican food. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or settling in for a full meal, the setting encourages comfort and connection.
Solid prices, a comforting atmosphere and the great dishes makes Kalypso a standout in the international foods scene in Buffalo. A perfect spot for anyone looking to broaden their alimentary horizons.
- SATO RAMEN: 3268 Main St
Anyone who is interested in authentic Japanese cuisine needs to visit Sato Ramen. Conveniently found just across the street from UB’s south campus, the traditional restaurant specializes in creating authentic Japanese noodle soups, providing a Japanese-inspired culinary adventure for students and locals alike.
As the restaurant’s namesake suggests, Sato Ramen features a variety of different ramen options on their menu. Whether you’re craving a spicy miso or a light creamy tonkotsu broth, they have something to satisfy any craving. Most bowls are served with toppings such as tender cashew pork, marinated eggs, corn, bamboo shoots, chicken or scallions. Fret not vegans, as they also have dishes such as the vegan curry ramen, fried tofu don and more to satiate your hunger. Sato also serves a selection of Japanese appetizers and sides to round out your meal. Some appetizers include kimchi, gyoza dumplings, seaweed salad and rice.
The pricing is also very student-friendly, with nearly all of their food options being priced between $12-$15. While it might cost slightly more than a typical campus meal, the generous portions and premium ingredients make it a worthwhile splurge. Plus, the quality of the food is on par with what you’d find in more expensive restaurants in my personal opinion. That, along with its proximity to campus, makes it a perfect place for casual solo dining or a group outing.
With so many incredible restaurants mere minutes away from campus, there’s no reason to limit your plate to repetitive campus-dining options. Exploring the places mentioned here (and more!) not only brings variety to your meals but also provides you with a chance to connect with Buffalo’s vibrant and diverse food scene. So, the next time you’re in need of a meal or simply want to treat yourself, go off campus — you won’t regret it.
