For students at the University of Connecticut’s main campus in Storrs, there is no shortage of things to do and places to go. Downtown Storrs, located just off-campus, has grown into a small food hub and is easily accessible on foot or through HuskyGo campus shuttles.
Whether you are escaping the dining hall, looking for somewhere to take your parents or simply realizing that you haven’t eaten since lunch, this guide to eating downtown may just have an answer.
For When Parents Visit
My longstanding recommendation for when families visit campus is the Dog Lane Cafe, conveniently located on the corner of Dog Lane and Storrs Road.
There’s a little something for everyone: sandwich specialties, soups, burgers, smoothies, “bottomless” coffee and locally-bottled Hosmer Mountain Sodas — amongst many, many other options. My pick right now is the artisan grilled cheese with apples and caramelized onions — yummy! It’s a spacious place, and if the weather’s nice, take advantage of the outdoor seating.
Another good spot to consider bringing your folks is the Bagel Zone Cafe and Grill in the lower level of University Plaza.
They live up to their slogan, “not just a bagel shop,” with deli-style sandwiches, baked goods, snacks and coffee — plus unique items like “The Waffler,” a breakfast sandwich with waffles for buns, and the “Big Mother-Clucker,” a crispy fried chicken and egg sandwich. Not to mention their bagels, with all the classic toppings and cream cheese mixes.
Casual Fare
It can be said that pizza is the king of comfort food. If you agree, you may want to experience Blaze Pizza, located on Royce Circle, featuring assembly-line ordering. You can build your own “fast-fired” pie or enjoy cheesy bread and salads. Don’t sleep on the cinnamon dessert pizza either.
Another spirited choice is Square Peg Pizzeria, a local chain with a location on Dog Lane. They offer many pie varieties and Italian favorites, like pasta dishes, bruschetta and calamari. Also featured is a full bar and favorites like nachos and wings — perfect for enjoying a UConn Huskies game on one of the large-screen TVs mounted throughout the restaurant.
A rite of passage for many students is the enjoyment of their first calzone from DP Dough, located in the lower level of University Plaza. There are many “zones” to choose from, many with fun names, like the “Twilight Zone” and the “Parking Zone.” You can even go build-your-own with the “Construction Zone.” DP Dough also delivers and is open extra late.
If any place is a certified UConn classic, Huskies Restaurant and Bar can claim that title. Their new downtown location, on the corner of Royce Circle and Wilbur Cross Way, is spacious with American fare like burgers, fries and wings.
Gansett Wraps, on Storrs Road next to Storrs Commons, also can’t be beat for quick bites and fresh, made-to-order wraps. They’re also a local chain based in Rhode Island.
Global Tastes
Maybe you’d prefer a more formal environment or would like to explore international cuisine.
Kathmandu Kitchen and Bar, on Wilbur Cross Way, is worth exploring, featuring traditional Indian and Nepali food such as biryani, pakora, tandoori and more. Little Aladdin, in the upper level of University Plaza, offers Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors like falafel, shawarma and kebabs, plus sandwiches and wraps.
For a more “laid-back” atmosphere, why not try Tokyo Ramen, offering Japanese ramen noodles, or Spice Venue, specializing in Indian cuisine — both also located in University Plaza. Daddy’s Noodle Bar, on Storrs Road next to the Dog Lane Cafe, is also regarded for their ramen and Vietnamese pho.
Tea More Cafe and Eatjoy, located on Wilbur Cross Way and Royce Circle, respectively, are our quick-service joints. They feature “bubble tea” and traditional dishes.
New on the Block
There’s nothing quite like a local eatery.
You can check out Haven Hot Chicken at the corner of Storrs Road and South Eagleville Road. Founded by a UConn grad, they offer spicy Southern-style chicken sandwiches, wraps, mac and cheese and banana pudding.
A couple of eateries are fairly new to campus, too. Check out Dog House Subs, an offshoot of Huskies specializing in sub sandwiches, and two spots next to each other in Storrs Commons: Guac ‘n Grill, a halal-certified sit-down Mexican spot, and Nikki’s Dog House, a Quiet Corner-based hot doggery.
Chain Restaurants
If familiar food is what you’re after, a couple of chain restaurants have your back.
You can catch breakfast, coffee or a snack at Dunkin’ Donuts, located next to Chase Bank on Storrs Road, and Starbucks, with two locations — one in Storrs Commons and a kiosk within Price Chopper.
Maybe you’d prefer to grab a seat at spots like Subway or Mooyah Burgers, Fries and Shakes, both located at Betsy Paterson Square, and Moe’s Southwest Grill on Storrs Road near Buckley Hall.
If you’ve got a late-night craving, a visit to Domino’s Pizza in Storrs Commons might just be the cure. They also deliver, including to UConn residence halls.
Side note: If you’re looking for the “golden arches,” the closest McDonald’s location is in Mansfield near the East Brook Mall on Route 195. It’s about a 15-minute drive from campus, but accessible via WRTD bus route 674. Maybe McDelivery is in your future.
For a Sweet Treat
For dessert, nothing beats Insomnia Cookies on Dog Lane. Found exclusively near college campuses, Insomnia serves up warm cookies and other baked treats and also features a special late-night delivery service. “Insomnia” is right!
If you’re looking for something healthier, Playa Bowls next to Moe’s is a good choice, with smoothies, “super-fruit” bowls and juices.
Now, it’s not technically located downtown, but the UConn Dairy Bar is a must-visit, especially for new students. They’ve got every flavor you can think of, plus seasonal choices like the student-designed “Senior Scoop“. It’s worth the trip! The Dairy Bar is located at 17 Manter Road near the Young Building and the Bio-Science Complex.
Hungry Huskies No More
Hopefully our guide helped demystify the downtown food scene. I think the variety is a welcome luxury. Go forth, travel downtown and see what is cooking!