From quick grab-and-go options to its iconic ‘50s style diner, SHU offers a wide variety of dining choices for its students. While these on-campus options keep students happy and well-fed, sometimes students enjoy venturing off campus and exploring the taste of local flavor.
“My favorite off-campus restaurant is Romanacci,” said junior Emily Schablik. “I love Italian food.”
Located on Madison Avenue in Trumbull, a quick five-minute drive from campus, Romanacci is an Italian restaurant offering all types of “Italian eats and treats.” From pizza and pasta to paninis and pastries, Romanacci is a fan-favorite among SHU students, especially those looking to use their student discount.
“My favorite is their special pizza, called the SHU pizza, which includes vodka sauce and mozzarella with chicken cutlet,” said junior Katie Ventisette.
“My favorite dish from there is penne vodka, along with the pizza,” said Schablik.
Another favorite off-campus food find is J Bagels & Cafe, better known as JBC. JBC is a local bagel shop conveniently located on Madison Avenue, in the same plaza as Romanacci, which is beloved by students for its breakfast options and affordable prices.
Source: Dylan Milano, Staff Writer and Photographer
Source: Dylan Milano, Staff Writer and Photographer
“I enjoy going to JBC because of its affordable price,” said Ventisette. “I enjoy getting their coffee and breakfast wraps.”
For students looking to venture a little further from campus, the shuttle can take them directly into the heart of downtown Fairfield for some other dining options.
“Being able to take a break from the campus food and get on the shuttle to go to one of my favorite places, Colony Grill, has been so nice,” said freshman Shannon Cahill.
For students looking for a great Connecticut slice, but not looking to drive all the way to New Haven, Colony Grill is a deliciously affordable and conveniently located spot for students. Known for its one-of-a-kind thin crust pizza and its famous “hot oil” topping, Colony Grill is a fan-favorite for SHU students.
“My favorite type of pizza is thin crust, so I love coming here and getting half plain half pepperoni,” said Cahill. “It’s the perfect mix.”
Along with Colony Grill, other restaurants in Fairfield like Malibu Taco and The Sinclair, have also become favorites of students looking for a fancier Meal.
“Malibu Taco is the perfect restaurant for a Friday or Saturday night,” said Ventisette. “It is so fun to get dressed up and go out with friends.”
Students also visit The Sinclair for time with family and friends, enjoying its spread of diverse American cuisine.
“The Sinclair is another one of my favorite restaurants. I came here with my family and the food was perfect,” said Cahill. “It is so beautiful inside, and they have nice outdoor seating for when it gets warm out.”
Finally, located closer to campus and in the same plaza as JBC and Romanacci, is The Sitting Duck Tavern that offers a variety of American style food and beer using locally and regionally grown produce. Some student-favorite menu items include their truffle fries, mac and cheese, burgers and wings.
“I love coming to The Sitting Duck Tavern. They always have sports games on so it is super fun to come and watch,” said Schablik. “They have some of the best food I’ve ever tried.”
For students looking to grab a bite off-campus, there are countless options that have been well-loved by the SHU community. For any questions or information, students can visit the Campus Concierge.
