Next door to the University of Washington campus, the University District has a different feel. Its main drag, University Way NE, is known locally as the Ave, where counter service, noodle shops and long-running neighborhood kitchens set the tone. Expect most meals here to be quick and inexpensive.
Sit-Down Dining at U Village
JOEY University Village
Book a table at JOEY for upscale American food in a setting that suits date nights and group dinners alike. Its patio stays open all year, a real draw in a city known for gray winters. Choose it when you want a fuller meal after shopping rather than a quick bite.
Piatti
Piatti brings Italian cooking to the University Village area, and it makes a comfortable pick for families. Slide into a relaxed table for pasta after an afternoon of errands.
Ba Bar University Village
The U Village outpost of Ba Bar focuses on Vietnamese food. Head here when you want something brighter and more casual than a steakhouse-style meal, all without leaving the shopping center.
Cheap Eats From Around the World on the Ave
Thai Tom
Grab a fast, filling meal at Thai Tom, a counter-service Thai spot right on the Ave. Students and longtime locals alike treat it as a reliable stop, and the casual setup is built for eating quickly.
Xi'an Noodles
Xi'an Noodles is known for hand-pulled biang biang noodles, the wide, chewy style from northwest China. Noodle fans and anyone curious about regional Chinese cooking will find it well worth the short walk from campus.
Cedar's
Cedar's has been serving Indian food in the University District for many years. That staying power makes it a dependable choice for curry lovers, and bring a group so you can order plenty of dishes to share.
Din Tai Fung
This location of the Taiwanese chain sits close to the UW campus and keeps things casual. Stop in with visiting family, after a campus tour or whenever dumplings are calling in a familiar setting.
Sumo Sushi
Sumo Sushi earns strong praise from sushi fans in the neighborhood. Make it your pick when you are in the mood for raw fish rather than noodles or curry.
Brunch and Bakeries by Portage Bay
Saint Bread
Saint Bread is a bakery from Kate Lewis and Kailee Bell, set in a former boatyard on Portage Bay. Start your morning by the water with pastries and coffee near the south edge of the University District.
Portage Bay Cafe
Portage Bay Cafe is a brunch favorite, and its University District location has been welcoming diners since 1997. Join the weekend brunch crowds, bring visiting parents or fuel up with a proper breakfast before exploring campus.
Make a Day of It in the Neighborhood
Saturday is a great day to pair food with errands. Browse the University District Farmers Market, which runs every Saturday year round at NE 52nd St and University Way NE, a short walk from the Ave's restaurants. Founded in 1993, it is one of Seattle's earliest neighborhood markets.
With kids in tow, balance out a noodle lunch with a stop at University Playground on 9th Ave NE. History buffs can explore the protected buildings around University Heights with our guide to Seattle landmarks.
Planning more of your visit? Use our Seattle neighborhood guides and list of things to do in Seattle to map out the rest of the day.
Menus, hours and locations change, so check each business's own website for current details before you go.
