One of the ways Uni deviates from regular high schools is the fact that it lacks a proper cafeteria or lunch room. Instead, most students choose to scatter in groups around the school. There is a recently-established dedicated school lunch program that many students pay for, but many students still decide to bring their lunch or none at all. For the latter group, or just students who would like to enjoy a particular day of the week by eating out, it might be worthwhile to get an idea of what dining options are available around Uni. A couple of food trucks and restaurants are popular amongst students, and we will be going over four of these today.

Just outside Uni

Juanito’s Tacos

Located just across from Uni, it’s hard to miss this bright lime-and-black-colored truck serving traditional Mexican food. Popular among Uni students for its convenience and tasty food, Juanito’s Tacos offers anything from tacos to burritos to nachos to tortas. Sometimes, the owners even give out free soup during the winter, regardless of whether you’re buying food. However, this truck doesn’t have many lower-cost options. Expect almost anything you buy to sit in the $10-$15 range.

Location: Usually on the south side of Uni

Price Range: $10-15

Green Street

Green Street is the main artery of Campustown, the vibrant area near the University of Illinois campus. It’s also home to various restaurants, cafes, bars, and bakeries catering to students, faculty, locals, and visitors. Green Street will probably have you covered whether you are looking for a quick bite, a hearty meal, or a sweet treat. Here are the three most popular non-chain restaurants among Uni students on Green Street.

Mia Za’s

If you’re looking for a casual place to enjoy pizza, pasta, and salads, Mia Za’s is a great option at 629 E Green St. Mia Za’s lets you create your pizza or pasta with your choice of crust, sauce, cheese, and toppings, or choose from their signature creations like the BBQ chicken pizza or the pesto pasta. You can also order salads with your choice of greens, dressing, and toppings or try their soups and sandwiches. Mia Za’s also has vegan and gluten-free options available. Mia Za’s is open every day from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Location: 629 E Green St.
Price range: $8-12

Dave’s Dogs

A new spot that has popped up recently but already gained traction among Uni students, Dave’s Dogs is a semitrailer-turned-hotdog-spot that can usually be found right next to the Burrito King truck across from Kenney during Uni’s lunch period. As the name suggests, Dave’s Dogs specializes in hot dogs ranging from traditional all-beef, German sausage, vegetarian, and more. Most hot dogs by themselves will cost around $4, and customers can also choose additional toppings, such as mustard, ketchup, relish, caramelized onions, and more, for free. You can also choose to purchase potato chips alongside your hot dog.

Location: In front of Kenney

Price range: $4-6

Cocomero

Cocomero is easily one of the most popular dessert spots on Green Street for Uni students. Serving primarily frozen yogurt, Cocomero is the place to go for a mid-week treat at 709 S Wright St. Inside is an array of everchanging frozen yogurt flavors, from regular strawberry to Taro. You can also top your frozen yogurt with various fruits, nuts, candies and syrups. You pay by weight, so you can have as much or as little as you want. Either way, the average cup of frozen yogurt will usually cost around $5-$6. Cocomero also offers bubble tea, smoothie, cake desserts, and coffee if you’re not in the mood for frozen yogurt. Cocomero is open every day from 12 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Location: 709 S Wright St.

Price range: $5-6

Though there are several places to eat around Uni not mentioned in this article, these were the current most popular four amongst students (not including chain restaurants like Panda Express and McDonald’s). One of the great things about Uni is the freedom given to its students to wander campus during lunch and free periods, so whether you’re a new or current student, make sure to take advantage of these opportunities.