University Grill has been a fixture in BU central since 1997, and not much has changed since.
If it is a typical college experience you are looking for, this place will deliver. With fluorescent lighting, cramped spaces and cash-only policy, University Grill is the perfect stop.
The menu has a large variety of Greek-inspired food, as well as fried favorites and endless sandwich options. And while all of the food is appealing, if you are health conscious, this may not be the place for you.
Owned and operated by four local brothers, this joint is known for its welcoming nature. Demetri Michaelidis is the lively character who takes your order at the counter, never failing to call you “hun” or “man.”
“We try to make it a comfortable, fun environment,” Michaelidis said. “We want people to chill out and have a good time.”
Adding to the energetic atmosphere is the cash-only policy. University Grill used to accept credit cards, but Michaelidis said since the restaurant is small it just slowed the flow down.
“We looked into accepting BU convenience points, but BU wanted to take too high of a percentage of our profits,” Michaelidis said.
University Grill definitely has an atmosphere independent of BU – you won’t find prices like this at the George Sherman Union. Almost all of the menu options fall between $5 and $7, and the portions are generous.
The most popular items include the pita roll ups, burgers and triple-decker sandwiches. Michaelidis said other popular options are the lamb gyro and mostly anything with chicken.
“My favorite pick is the fajitas – your breath kicks after so you have to brush your teeth after a couple of times” said Michaelidis.
Although the prices are easy on college students’ wallets, there are certain aspects that could be improved.
With so many restaurants in the area that deliver late at night, University Grill doesn’t pull through in the clutch.
On a cold wintry night, it is not fun to trek for a burger and fries when most other restaurants deliver. Also, on Sundays when you are not time-deprived, an option other than the dining hall would be nice, but University Grill is closed.
However, this easy, appetizing restaurant doesn’t pretend to be anything it’s not, and with that in mind, University Grill is the ideal for college eats.