Kenmore Square Restaurants: A BU Student's Guide

Kenmore Square Restaurants: A BU Student's Guide is part of Boston University's (BU) dining ecosystem in Boston, Massachusetts. This guide reflects actual student experiences with BU dining—including the operational realities that affect your daily life.

As a BU student, Kenmore Square is the culinary heart of your campus life. Just steps from the iconic BU Beach and GSU, this vibrant area is home to a diverse array of dining options - from late-night pizza and burger joints to upscale eateries perfect for a special occasion.

Whether you're craving a quick bite between classes or looking to enjoy a leisurely meal with friends, the Kenmore restaurants cater to every taste and budget. In this guide, we'll take you through the best spots to check out, complete with insider tips and honest reviews from fellow Terriers.

As a BU student, you'll quickly discover that certain Kenmore restaurants have become staples among the campus community. These beloved eateries are beloved for good reason - they offer consistent quality, great value, and a lively atmosphere that keeps students coming back time and again.

Rhett's West End: This casual burger joint is a true Kenmore icon, known for its mouthwatering burgers, crispy fries, and refreshing milkshakes. It's a popular hangout spot for athletes and students alike.

Pavement Coffeehouse: When you need a caffeine fix or a quiet place to study, Pavement is the go-to spot. This local coffee shop roasts its own beans and offers a cozy, welcoming vibe.

BU Dining at Marciano Commons: For an all-you-can-eat dining experience right on campus, head to Marciano Commons. This modern dining hall offers a diverse array of cuisine, from made-to-order stir-fries to homestyle comfort foods.

While the campus favorites are well-known, Kenmore Square also has its fair share of hidden gems - unique and delicious restaurants that fly under the radar. As a savvy BU student, you'll want to seek out these lesser-known spots for an authentic and memorable dining experience.

Audubon Boston: This cozy bistro serves up elevated New American cuisine in a charming, intimate setting. The seasonal menu features locally-sourced ingredients and creative cocktails.

Sumi Sushi: For the best sushi in Kenmore, look no further than this unassuming spot. Sumi Sushi offers fresh, expertly-crafted rolls and sashimi at wallet-friendly prices.

Gyro City: When you're craving Mediterranean flavors, head to Gyro City for authentic gyros, falafel, and other delicious Greek specialties. The portions are generous, and the prices are student-friendly.

While Kenmore is known for its casual eateries and student-centric hangouts, the area also boasts several upscale dining options perfect for special occasions. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, impressing a date, or simply treating yourself, these Kenmore restaurants offer an elevated dining experience.

Brasserie JO: This French brasserie exudes sophistication with its elegant decor, extensive wine list, and classic Gallic cuisine. It's a favorite spot for BU parents and alumni.

Eastern Standard: Housed in a historic building, Eastern Standard offers an sophisticated yet laidback ambiance. The menu features creative New American fare and expertly-crafted cocktails.

KO Pies at the Shipyard: For a unique dining experience, head to this Australian-inspired gastropub. In addition to delicious meat pies, KO Pies offers sweeping views of the Charles River.

As a BU student, you know that managing your budget is crucial. Luckily, Kenmore Square offers plenty of dining options that won't break the bank. Here are some of the best budget-friendly restaurants in the area:

• Sunset Grill & Tap: This classic American grill is known for its generous portions and affordable prices. Don't miss the legendary nachos and wings.

• Boloco: This local burrito chain offers fresh, customizable burritos, bowls, and salads at student-friendly prices. It's a quick, healthy option between classes.

• Blaze Pizza: For a cheap and delicious slice, head to Blaze Pizza. This fast-casual spot lets you build your own personal pizza with a variety of toppings.

• Tasty Burger: A Kenmore Square staple, Tasty Burger serves up juicy burgers, crispy fries, and thick milkshakes at wallet-friendly prices.

Don't just take our word for it - hear from current BU students about their favorite Kenmore dining spots:

'Rhett's West End is my go-to place when I'm craving a classic burger and fries. The portions are huge, and the food is always fresh and delicious.' - Sarah, Class of 2024

'Pavement Coffeehouse is my sanctuary on campus. The cozy atmosphere and great coffee help me power through long study sessions.' - Alex, Class of 2023

'Sumi Sushi is a hidden gem! The sushi is incredibly fresh and the prices are very reasonable. It's become my favorite spot for a quick, healthy lunch.' - Jenna, Class of 2025

'For a special night out, I love Eastern Standard. The cocktails are phenomenal, and the food is just as impressive. It's the perfect place to impress a date or celebrate a big occasion.' - Nate, Class of 2024

The dining point system at BU works differently than most students expect. Points don't carry over the way meal swipes might at other schools, which changes how you should budget your dining dollars.

When evaluating Kenmore Square Restaurants: A BU Student's Guide, BU students should weigh both the benefits and constraints. No option is perfect for everyone—the right choice depends on your specific priorities, circumstances, and what tradeoffs you're willing to accept.