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Top 5 Dining Spots Near Campus

Two students are dining together at Murphy's.

Food is an essential part of the University experience, and there’s no shortage of delicious options to fuel your studies and social life. If you’re grabbing a quick bite between classes or sitting down for a big meal with friends, the campus and nearby eateries have something for everyone. Here are top five favorite food spots on and off campus that keep Cardinals coming back for more.

5.) Chick-Fil-A

Chick-Fil-A in the Pryz Food Court on a crowded day.

It's no secret: Cardinals love Chick-Fil-A. There's always a line stretching out the door of the Pryz during lunchtime, waiting to order the national chain's famous chicken and waffle fries. Although the classic pickles, bun, and breaded chicken sandwich is a fan favorite, the fast food joint has offerings to fit everyone's tastes including fresh salads to sweet treats like cookies and cream milkshakes. Trust us, it's worth the wait!

4.) Which Wich

Located in the Pryz's Food Court, Which Wich will definitely have you asking yourself which (sand)wich you want to try first. This fast casual spot's expansive menu offers over 40 crafted sandwiches to choose from, ranging from classics like BLTs and turkey clubs to one-of-a-kind creations such as the Elviswich (that's bacon, banana, peanut butter, and honey to you!). Even if the dozens of choices don't feel like your taste, there are made-to-order sandwiches to suit your personal preferences.

3.) Murphy's Grill

Three CUA students are enjoying drinks and a plate of nachos at Murphy's in the basement of the Pryz.

Murphy's Grill is tucked away in the lower level of the Pryz. The sitdown restaurant's namesake, Mike Murphy, was an alumnus of Catholic University from the Class of 1974. After the closure of the Fr. O'Connell hotspot, Rathskellar, Mike rallied his friends and fellow Catholic alumni to create a suitable replacement. Although Mike passed away in 2007, his legacy lives on with his namesake restaurant. The student-operated establishment offers a full food and drink menu and features all-American cuisine. Comfort food like onion soup, burgers, cottage pie, and Dutch apple pie are served up in a place where Cardinals young and old are welcomed.

2.)The Garv

Garvey Dining Hall on a typical day, filled with students enjoying lunch.

One of the newest features to Catholic University's campus is Garvey Hall. This 35,00 square feet dining space opened its doors in December 2022. The impressive

 400-seat dining hall is the perfect spot for Cardinals to share a meal together. Similarly impressive is the variety of food Garvey has to offer. In addition to an ever-changing menu of daily specials, Garvey Hall also offers staples like pizza, burgers, salads, and sandwiches. No matter what your diet needs are, there's something for you at Garvey Hall, including allergy-friendly and plant-based options.

1.) Monroe Street Market

Monroe Street Market on a sunny day.

Step off of campus onto Monroe Street, and you'll find a host of restaurants from D.C. classics to national favorites. Sit down and savor your lunch or grab something to go at these fast casual establishments. Across the street from Fr. O'Connell Hall, Busboys and Poets is not only a restaurant and coffee shop but also a bookstore and performing arts venue all rolled into one. Just down the street, spots like Chipotle, Potbelly Sandwich Shop, and & Pizza serve up customizable cuisine. No matter what you're craving, Monroe Street Market's got you covered.
 

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