Starving after a grueling lecture in Mellon Hall? Craving something delicious after a late-night study session at Gumberg Library? Navigating the culinary landscape around Duquesne University can be overwhelming for new students and even seasoned locals. Fear not! This guide is your comprehensive map to the tastiest and most convenient food options just a stone’s throw from the Bluff. Duquesne University, nestled in the heart of Pittsburgh, boasts a vibrant surrounding area filled with diverse eateries. From quick, budget-friendly bites to sophisticated dining experiences, there’s something to satisfy every palate and pocketbook. You’ll find popular spots along Forbes Avenue, the bustling stretch near campus, and hidden gems tucked away on side streets. Whether you’re looking for a caffeine boost, a hearty meal, or a late-night snack, this article unveils the best kept secrets for food near Duquesne University. This guide provides a curated list of restaurants and food spots close to Duquesne University, catering to various tastes, budgets, and needs.
Budget Bites Bonanza
Finding affordable eats is crucial, especially when you’re balancing tuition, textbooks, and social life. Thankfully, Duquesne students have several budget-friendly options right at their fingertips.
The O: Home Style Cooking
Located a short walk from campus, The O is a long-standing staple of the Duquesne community. This diner-style eatery offers classic American comfort food at prices that won’t break the bank. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying breakfast. What makes it great for students? The portions are generous, the service is quick, and you can easily grab a filling meal for under ten dollars. Recommended dishes include their hearty breakfast platters with eggs, bacon, and pancakes, their classic cheeseburgers with fries, and their daily soup specials. The O is located on Forbes Avenue, easily accessible by foot from most campus buildings. It provides some delicious and cheap food near Duquesne University.
Fuel & Fuddle
While Fuel & Fuddle is a lively bar and grill it also has some good, cheap options. Located across the Birmingham Bridge on the South Side, Fuel & Fuddle is worth the short walk or bus ride for its amazing happy hour specials. A huge crowd favorite is the pizza and beer deals. The restaurant also has some really great daily specials, so make sure you follow them on social media to check those out.
Panera Bread
A familiar name, but a reliable choice. Panera Bread, located within easy walking distance of Duquesne’s campus, offers a variety of soups, salads, sandwiches, and pastries. It’s an excellent spot for a quick and affordable lunch or a study session fueled by coffee and bagels. What makes it appealing to students? The fast service, predictable quality, and the ability to customize your order. Recommended items include their broccoli cheddar soup, their turkey avocado BLT, and their variety of bagels and cream cheese. Panera is accessible and provides a comfortable atmosphere, making it a consistently popular choice for affordable food near Duquesne.
Casual Cuisine and Comfort Food Classics
Sometimes, you just need a reliable place to grab a satisfying meal without any fuss. These casual dining spots near Duquesne offer tasty food in a relaxed atmosphere.
Stack’d Oakland
Burger cravings? Stack’d is your answer. Although not directly on campus, Stack’d in Oakland is a short bus ride away and offers an amazing build-your-own burger experience. You pick your patty, toppings, sauce, and bun. It’s a fun and customizable option that’s perfect for a casual lunch or dinner with friends. The atmosphere is lively and energetic. Stack’d is a great place to relax and enjoy delicious food near Duquesne.
Primanti Bros. Restaurant and Bar
No visit to Pittsburgh is complete without experiencing the iconic Primanti Bros. Known for their sandwiches piled high with coleslaw and fries, this Pittsburgh staple offers a unique and satisfying culinary experience. What makes it a must-try? The novelty of the sandwich, the generous portions, and the undeniably Pittsburgh vibe. Recommended sandwiches include the Pitts-Burger, the Capicola and Cheese, and the Corned Beef and Cheese. The original Primanti’s is located in the Strip District, a short drive or bus ride from Duquesne. However, there are also closer locations.
Betos Pizza
With some of the biggest slices of pizza you will ever see, Betos Pizza is a great spot for a quick and delicious bite. They also have fantastic sandwiches and burgers. The restaurant is very casual and it feels like walking into a local pizza shop. Betos Pizza is a short walk from campus.
Exploring International Flavors
Expand your culinary horizons with the diverse range of international restaurants near Duquesne. From authentic Italian to flavorful Asian cuisine, there’s a world of flavors waiting to be discovered.
The Cheesecake Factory
Everyone knows The Cheesecake Factory. Offering a very wide and diverse menu there is something for everyone. You can find burgers, pasta, tacos, fish, and of course, cheesecake.
Spice Island Tea House
For those craving an authentic Asian experience, Spice Island Tea House delivers. Located on Atwood street, Spice Island Tea House is an authentic Southeast Asian restaurant serving dishes from Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, and other southeast Asian countries.
Las Palmas Mexican Restaurant
Located on the South Side, Las Palmas Mexican Restaurant is a short bus ride from campus. Their authentic Mexican cuisine, is the perfect fix to any craving. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. Recommended dishes include their flavorful tacos, their enchiladas, and their delicious margaritas. Las Palmas offers a taste of Mexico close to Duquesne University.
Coffee Shops and Cafes: Your Study Sanctuaries
Need a caffeine boost and a quiet place to focus? These coffee shops and cafes near Duquesne offer the perfect environment for studying, working, or simply relaxing with a good book.
Nicholas Coffee and Tea Co
A coffee shop that is close to campus and offers a great selection of coffees, teas, and sandwiches. They also have a large selection of flavored coffees.
Redhawk Coffee
Located a short walk from campus, Redhawk Coffee offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for studying or catching up with friends. Known for their high-quality coffee, friendly baristas, and delicious pastries, Redhawk is a popular spot among Duquesne students. The atmosphere is bright and airy, with plenty of seating options. They offer all kinds of coffee options and brewing styles as well.
Treat Yourself: Upscale Indulgence
Sometimes, you deserve a special dining experience. These slightly more upscale restaurants near Duquesne are perfect for celebrating a birthday, impressing your parents during a visit, or simply treating yourself to a delicious meal.
Monterey Bay Fish Grotto
Located on Mt. Washington, Monterey Bay Fish Grotto offers stunning panoramic views of the Pittsburgh skyline. The restaurant specializes in fresh seafood and provides a sophisticated dining experience. What makes it perfect for a special occasion? The breathtaking views, the elegant ambiance, and the exquisite food. Recommended dishes include their grilled swordfish, their lobster bisque, and their decadent desserts. While a bit pricier than other options, Monterey Bay Fish Grotto is an unforgettable culinary experience.
The Capital Grille
For a classic steakhouse experience, The Capital Grille is an excellent choice. Located downtown, it’s a short drive or ride from Duquesne and offers a sophisticated atmosphere, impeccable service, and top-quality steaks. The Capital Grille is the perfect spot for a celebratory dinner or a business lunch. The steaks are perfectly cooked, the sides are delicious, and the wine list is extensive.
Late-Night Eats: Satisfying Those Midnight Cravings
When hunger strikes late at night, these spots have you covered. Whether you’re craving pizza, sandwiches, or something sweet, you’ll find a variety of options to satisfy those midnight cravings.
Antoon’s Pizza
Antoon’s Pizza is a classic Pittsburgh pizza place. They have been around forever and make really great New York style pizza. They are located in Oakland so they aren’t too far from campus and often open fairly late.
Sheetz
A convenience store chain that operates all throughout Pennsylvania. Their food options, which are all customizable on touch screen kiosks, are great late night. They are open twenty four hours a day and seven days a week.
McDonald’s
The fast food chain is another place that is open super late, sometimes even twenty four hours. They have a lot of great and cheap options.
Duquesne University Food Map
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Final Thoughts: A Food Lover’s Paradise Near the Bluff
From budget-friendly bites to upscale dining experiences, the area surrounding Duquesne University offers a diverse and exciting culinary scene. Whether you’re a student on a budget, a faculty member looking for a quick lunch, or a visitor wanting to explore the local flavors, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your appetite. Don’t be afraid to venture beyond the campus boundaries and discover the hidden gems that Pittsburgh has to offer. The best food near Duquesne University is waiting to be explored. Let us know your favorite food spots in the comments below! The vibrant food scene around Duquesne University is a reflection of the city itself – diverse, welcoming, and always delicious. So, go out there, explore, and bon appétit!
