Fast Food At Rutgers New Brunswick

Rutgers University in New Brunswick offers a variety of fast-food options both on and off-campus. On-campus, there are four major dining halls – Livingston, Busch, Cook/Douglass, and College – which offer an all-you-can-eat buffet-style dining experience with a diverse range of cuisines. The College Avenue Campus also has five eateries serving various dishes. Off-campus, there are numerous fast-food restaurants near Rutgers University, including Chipotle Mexican Grill, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Jersey Mike’s Subs, and Wings Over Rutgers.

Fast-food options on Rutgers campuses

Rutgers University in New Brunswick has a variety of fast-food options both on and off-campus.

On-Campus Options:

The College Avenue Student Center's lower level is home to The Atrium, which features five eateries offering a range of cuisines. The Livingston Student Center houses a Starbucks, while the Livingston Dining Commons offers custom burgers and a cosy fireplace. The Busch Campus features Gerlanda's Pizza and Cafe, as well as Panera Bread. The Knight's Bridge on the same campus offers pastries, snacks, and hot and cold meals. The College Avenue Campus also has a Panera Bread.

Off-Campus Options:

Nearby Easton Avenue is home to several fast-food options, including Hansel 'n Griddle, Mamoun's Falafel, Caffe Bene, Hidden Grounds, KBG Korean BBQ & Grill, Tacoria, Thomas Sweet, Stuff Yer Face, and Fritz's. For vegan options, there's Veganized. For pizza, students can try Panico's. For those craving something sweet, there's Thomas Sweet. For a slice of southern cuisine, there's The Old Bay Restaurant. For late-night cravings, Sanctuary is a quirky diner just a few steps away from the bars.

Additionally, Rutgers' famous Grease Trucks, now replaced by the RU Hungry Truck, serve up the iconic Fat Sandwich—a sub roll stuffed with junk food delights.

Fast-food options near Rutgers in New Brunswick, NJ

There are plenty of fast-food options near Rutgers in New Brunswick, NJ, both on and off-campus.

On-campus options

Rutgers University has four major dining halls – Livingston, Busch, Cook/Douglass, and College – which offer all-you-can-eat buffets with a variety of options. Livingston Dining Hall, in particular, offers a diverse range of food, with each station serving a different nationality. The College Avenue Campus also has The Atrium, which houses five eateries serving a variety of cuisines.

Off-campus options

If you're looking for fast food off-campus, there are several options within a five-minute walk from Rutgers. Here are some popular choices:

• Hansel 'N Griddle: Located on Easton Avenue, this spot is perfect for late-night munchies, delivering until 3 am. They offer giant burgers, quesadillas, and buffalo chicken wings.
• Mamoun's Falafel: A short walk from campus on Easton Avenue, Mamoun's is known for its affordable, fresh, and flavorful Middle Eastern dishes. Their hummus is a must-try.
• Caffe Bene: This cafe on George Street is ideal for a study break, with comfy chairs, spacious tables, and delicious coffee. They also serve European and Asian treats like Italian coffee and Red Bean Bingsu.
• Hidden Grounds: Another great cafe option on Easton Avenue, Hidden Grounds has a hipster vibe with succulents, unfinished wooden tables, and white brick walls. They also host community events like latte art demos and open mic nights.
• Chipotle Mexican Grill: With two locations near Rutgers, Chipotle is a popular choice for fast, casual Mexican food.
• Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen: For some fast-food fried chicken, Popeyes is an option near Rutgers.
• Jersey Mike's Subs: Located near Rutgers, Jersey Mike's offers fresh-sliced deli meats and hearty portions in their sandwiches.
• Wings Over Rutgers: As the name suggests, this spot specializes in chicken wings, as well as offering sandwiches and other fast food options.

Best cheap eats near Rutgers

Rutgers University in New Brunswick is surrounded by a variety of restaurants and eateries, with something to suit every taste and budget. Here are some of the best cheap eats near the university:

Hansel 'N Griddle

Located on Easton Avenue, Hansel 'N Griddle is the go-to spot for many Rutgers students. With a varied menu that includes giant burgers, quesadillas, and buffalo chicken wings, it's perfect for satisfying late-night cravings. They deliver until 3 am, making it a convenient option for those nights when you've had one too many shots. Their Popcorn Buffalo Chicken Crisp is a popular choice, and they also offer breakfast options for those late-night study sessions.

Mamoun's Falafel

For affordable and refreshing Middle Eastern cuisine, Mamoun's Falafel on Easton Avenue is a great choice. Their platters are generous, and they offer customisable options like the vegetarian combo plate with baba ganouj and tabbouleh. Don't forget to try their famous hummus and the tamarind juice for a true Middle Eastern experience. The best time to visit is around 2:00 pm to avoid the crowds.

Caffe Bene

Caffe Bene on George Street is the ideal spot for students looking for a comfortable study space with great coffee. They offer a range of European and Asian flavours, including Italian coffee, Misaguru Frappe, Red Bean Bingsu, and Green Tea Gelato. Their portabella sandwich is a tasty option, and you can treat yourself to their decadent dessert waffles during study breaks.

Hidden Grounds

Hidden Grounds, with two locations on Easton Avenue, is a hipster's dream come true. With its succulent plants, unfinished wooden tables, and white brick walls, it's more than just a coffee shop. It's a community hub that hosts events like latte art demos, mini flea markets, and open mic nights. Their masala chai and hibiscus doughnuts are a perfect light bite, while the Bombay sandwich will satisfy bigger appetites.

RU Hungry Truck

The RU Hungry grease truck, located on College Avenue, is a Rutgers institution. It's famous for its Fat Sandwich, a massive sub roll stuffed with junk food like chicken fingers, mozzarella sticks, and gyro meat. Founded in the '80s, it has become an iconic part of Rutgers' culture, with colourful sandwich names and ridiculous eating challenges. It's open late to cater to the drunkzillas, and they also offer delivery until 2 am.

KBG Korean BBQ & Grill

For a delicious and healthy option, head to KBG Korean BBQ & Grill on Easton Avenue. They offer a blend of Korean BBQ with a twist, including customisable tacos, burritos, and bowls. Their generous portions and moderate prices make it a great value option. Don't forget to try the K-Town Fries and grab a bubble tea from the nearby Vivi Bubble Tea counter.

Best late-night eats near Rutgers

Rutgers University in New Brunswick has a lot to offer when it comes to late-night eats. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the best places to satisfy your late-night cravings:

Sanctuary

Located just a few steps away from the bars on 135 Easton Ave, Sanctuary is a quirky diner with a comic book collection and an extensive menu. It's a seriously underrated spot for a late-night meal.

Hansel 'N Griddle

Hansel 'N Griddle, or H'NG as it's affectionately known, is the go-to spot for Rutgers students. With a constant line, even after relocating to a bigger property in the middle of three busy bars, H'NG offers giant burgers, quesadillas, and smoothies that are perfect for a late-night study break or a post-game meal. They deliver until 3 am, making it a convenient option for those late-night cravings.

RU Hungry Truck

The RU Hungry Truck, also known as the grease truck, is a unique part of Rutgers' culture. It's been featured on Man vs. Food, and their student inventions have received top accolades. The truck is usually packed around 1:00 am, serving up their famous Fat Sandwiches—a massive junk food party in a sandwich. It's definitely an experience not to be missed!

Stuff Yer Face

Another popular spot for late-night eats is Stuff Yer Face, located on 49 Easton Ave. With over 100 varieties of beer and massive strombolis, it's no wonder this place is always buzzing. Their Chicken Wing Potachos, made with thick potato chips, are a must-try. And don't forget to wash it all down with one of their signature fishbowls!

Thomas Sweet

For those with a sweet tooth, Thomas Sweet on 55 Easton Ave is the place to be. This cute little shop, established in 1979, has a range of over 20 seasonal ice cream flavors and toppings to choose from. Their Blend-ins, a luscious blend of ice cream and toppings, are a fan favorite. So, if you're looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, be prepared to wait in line alongside students and families on the weekends.

Best Rutgers eats for parents to pay for

Rutgers University in New Brunswick has a variety of dining options for students and their parents. The university's dining halls offer all-you-can-eat buffets with a range of cuisines, including Livingston Dining Hall, which features different nationalities. While some students appreciate the variety, others note a lack of healthy options. However, there are plenty of great places to eat on and off-campus, including fast-food counter-style restaurants and ethnic eateries.

Old Man Rafferty's

Located on Albany Street, this restaurant is a little out of the average student's budget, but it's a great option when your parents are in town. Indulge in dishes like bacon-wrapped filet mignon and decadent desserts featuring multiple forms of chocolate.

Due Mari

This restaurant, located on Albany Street, will make you feel like you're dining in a different New Brunswick. The minimalistic decor, impeccable service, delicious menu, and perfectly presented dishes make it a must-visit when parents are visiting. The pasta, especially the handmade variety, comes highly recommended.

Harvest Moon Brewery & Cafe

This spot, located on George Street, is ideal for grabbing dinner or drinks before or after a show at the Stress Factory or the State Theater. They offer in-house-brewed beer, making it a unique and enjoyable experience for parents.

Steakhouse 85

If you're craving a good steak, head to Church Street and treat yourself to big chops, classic surf and turf, and a variety of potatoes. While it might come with a hefty check, it's worth the indulgence when someone else is paying!

The Plaza (Livingston)

Enjoy a milkshake, a customised burger, or a hearty breakfast at any time of day at this on-campus location. It's a convenient option for parents who want to treat their students to a meal.

In addition to these options, Rutgers University also has several dining halls and retail operations across its campuses, offering a range of cuisines and dining experiences.

Frequently asked questions