Introduction
Brigham Young University, nestled in the beautiful city of Provo, Utah, is a vibrant hub of activity for students from all walks of life. Beyond academics and extracurricular pursuits, one thing consistently unites the BYU community: a shared love for good food. Fueling long study sessions, providing the backdrop for social gatherings, and offering a much-needed break from the rigors of university life, the food scene near BYU plays a pivotal role in the overall student experience.
This guide aims to be your comprehensive resource for discovering the best places to eat near BYU. Whether you’re craving a quick bite between classes, searching for a spot to share a meal with friends, or simply looking to explore the diverse culinary landscape surrounding campus, we’ve got you covered. This guide explores a broad spectrum of cuisines and price points, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every palate and budget. Get ready to embark on a delicious journey to uncover the best food near BYU!
Defining the Area: Where to Find the Food near BYU
The “near BYU” zone for this guide encompasses a convenient radius accessible to students. We’re focusing on areas within walking distance of the main campus, as well as locations that are a short drive or bike ride away. This primarily includes the blocks immediately surrounding campus, stretching toward University Avenue to the west, and extending slightly east and south. We’ll also cover key areas like University Place and the surrounding areas, which are popular destinations for students. This selection keeps in mind the convenience factor – these areas provide students with a plethora of options that are easily accessible, whether they are walking between classes, commuting on the bus, or driving. This area offers an excellent representation of the diverse range of places serving food near BYU.
Fast Food and Quick Bites: Your Go-To Options
Navigating a busy college schedule often calls for quick and convenient meal options. Thankfully, the area around BYU is brimming with both established fast-food chains and local quick-bite establishments ready to satisfy your cravings.
Established Chains:
When time is of the essence, familiar faces provide a reliable and consistent experience. Several popular chains offer their services near BYU. Consider these familiar staples:
Chick-fil-A: A perennial favorite for its friendly service, delicious chicken sandwiches, and waffle fries. The location near campus always draws a crowd, so consider using the mobile app to order ahead and skip the line. Chick-fil-A remains a popular food near BYU choice.
McDonald’s: A budget-friendly option that’s always available. Offers a wide selection of breakfast, lunch, and dinner items, including burgers, fries, and breakfast sandwiches. Conveniently located, making it ideal for a quick meal.
Subway: Offers a customizable menu of sandwiches and salads, perfect for a healthy and customizable lunch or dinner. The ability to choose your bread, fillings, and sauces makes it a versatile option.
Wendy’s: Known for its fresh, never-frozen beef burgers and Frosty desserts. Another quick and reliable option near campus.
Taco Bell/Pizza Hut: These two are often combined in one location near campus. Ideal for late-night study snacks, offering both quick and affordable Mexican and pizza-style foods.
Local Quick Bites:
Beyond the national chains, Provo and its environs boast a variety of local gems that offer unique flavors and quick service.
Cubby’s: Offers fantastic sandwiches and salads, made with high-quality ingredients. A local favorite for lunch or a quick dinner. Their Cubby sauce is a must-try.
Guru’s Cafe: Specializes in fresh, healthy salads, sandwiches, and wraps. Known for its delicious dressings and a relaxing atmosphere, ideal for a study break.
Donkey’s Pizza: Offers slices of delicious pizza for those in a hurry or who need to grab something quick. Excellent for filling up without breaking the bank.
Casual Dining: Exploring More Extensive Menus
When you have a little more time to spare, or are planning a meal with friends, exploring casual dining options offers a broader range of choices. The area around BYU is a great place for all types of cuisines.
American Cuisine Choices:
Five Guys Burgers and Fries: A great spot for juicy burgers and fresh-cut fries. Choose your toppings and enjoy a customizable burger experience.
Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews: Offers a wide variety of burgers, sandwiches, salads, and bottomless fries. The atmosphere is family-friendly.
The Habit Burger Grill: Popular for its charburgers, sandwiches, and salads. A simple yet reliable option for a satisfying meal.
Buffalo Wild Wings: Ideal for watching sports and enjoying wings and other appetizers. Offers a fun and casual dining experience.
International Cuisine:
The culinary scene near BYU embraces a diverse range of flavors from around the globe:
Cafe Rio Mexican Grill: A popular choice for fresh, authentic Mexican food. Offers a variety of tacos, burritos, salads, and enchiladas. Famous for their sweet pork.
Costa Vida Fresh Mexican Grill: Similar to Cafe Rio, but with its own distinct style and menu. Offers fresh, flavorful Mexican-inspired dishes.
Chopsticks: A convenient option for Chinese food. Offers a variety of classic Chinese dishes, including noodles, rice, and entrees.
Bombay House: A well-regarded Indian restaurant with a diverse menu of curries, tandoori dishes, and vegetarian options. Offers a more upscale experience for a casual dining setting.
Sushi Ya: One of the most popular sushi restaurants around BYU. Offers various sushi rolls and Japanese dishes, a great option for those craving some fresh Japanese cuisine.
Cafes and Coffee Shops: For Study Sessions and Caffeine Fixes
No student’s guide to food near BYU would be complete without a dedicated section to cafes and coffee shops. These establishments provide the ideal blend of caffeine, ambiance, and (often) free Wi-Fi, creating the perfect environment for studying, meeting friends, or simply enjoying a quiet moment.
Coffee Shops Galore:
Starbucks: A global favorite offering a wide array of coffee drinks, teas, pastries, and snacks. Multiple locations near campus make it a convenient option. Offers free Wi-Fi.
The Bean Yard: A local coffee shop with a cozy atmosphere. Offers a wide selection of coffee and tea drinks, pastries, and breakfast items. Perfect for studying.
Black Rock Coffee Bar: A popular coffee chain with a drive-thru, making it easy to grab a coffee on the go. Offers coffee drinks and other caffeinated options.
Hungry Bear Coffee: Popular for its high-quality coffee drinks and pastries. Offers comfortable seating and a welcoming atmosphere.
Bakeries and Dessert Spots:
Rock Canyon Bakehouse: Offers delicious pastries, cookies, and cakes, as well as coffee and tea.
Insomnia Cookies: A delivery service with delicious, warm cookies. Ideal for late-night study sessions.
Additional Considerations: Catering to BYU Students
Beyond the basic categories, several factors make a restaurant or food option particularly appealing to BYU students.
Budget-Friendly Options:
As students, most people are mindful of their spending. Here’s where to find the most value:
Look for student discounts offered by restaurants (always ask!).
Take advantage of “value meals” and specials at fast-food chains.
Explore the many affordable options offered by the local restaurants.
Vegetarian, Vegan, and Dietary Needs:
Many restaurants now clearly label their vegetarian and vegan options. Look for these when choosing.
Explore restaurants that offer customizable dishes where you can make healthy choices.
Late-Night Options:
Some of the fast food chains mentioned above are open late.
Some delivery services can bring food straight to your door when you are studying late.
Takeout and Delivery Services:
Most of the restaurants mentioned offer a takeout option.
Many also partner with delivery services.
This is especially convenient for those short on time.
Best Places for Studying or Working:
Cafes like Starbucks and The Bean Yard offer quiet spaces with Wi-Fi.
Consider restaurants that offer a good atmosphere for studying.
Tips and Recommendations for a Smooth Dining Experience
Utilize online resources like Google Maps, Yelp, and other review sites to find nearby options and read reviews.
Always look for student discounts. Many places offer them, so make sure to ask.
Take advantage of loyalty programs or apps to earn rewards.
Check operating hours, especially on Sundays (many places are closed).
Conclusion
As you can see, the food near BYU offers an incredible diversity of choices to satisfy any craving and fit any budget. From quick and convenient fast food to sit-down restaurants, the possibilities are nearly endless. So, whether you’re a new student or a seasoned Cougar, be sure to explore the food scene near BYU. You’re sure to discover new favorites and enjoy some great meals along the way. Go forth and explore, and don’t forget to let us know what you think!
