Whether you are a Laurier, Waterloo or Conestoga student looking for a nice restaurant to head to or you are in town and want to try out a new restaurant, here is a list of a few of my favourite restaurants to go to in the area. Plus, they are all within walking distance of Waterloo’s and Laurier’s campuses!
1. UKI Restaurant
You may not notice this restaurant while you are walking through uptown Waterloo as it is quite small and lowkey, but the food and atmosphere will make you want to come back all the time. UKI offers a wide selection of Korean and Japanese food, and the vibe is very cozy and aesthetically pleasing. I always love to get their broth soups when I am feeling under the weather, as they never fail to make me feel better.
2. Kinton Ramen
Located just a short walk from the Waterloo Public Library, Kinton is a great place to stop for a well-deserved meal after a long study session. Kinton has a wide selection of exceptional ramen bowls including both meat and vegetarian options. Their gyozas are a personal favourite of mine.
3. Famaso Neapolitan Pizzeria
Famoso is a great option for gourmet pizza, tasty cocktails and refreshing beers. I come here with my family all the time as they have a wide variety of Italian dishes and an inviting atmosphere. There is also a large parking lot close by which is a big plus.
4. Ken Sushi
Recommended to me by friends, Ken Sushi has a nice lively vibe where the waiters are all really nice and the service is very fast which means more sushi for you! A top recommendation is the sashimi from the à la carte menu.
5. Korner Kitchen
Korner Kitchen has both a breakfast and lunch menu and has some of the best service and friendliest staff with really affordable prices. The reason I choose to include it on the list is to recommend the mega breakfast which is what I order essentially every time I go there. It is probably one of the best deals I have seen; you get huge portions of food that will last you for days to come for just under $16.
6. Miga
Perhaps saving the best option for last, Miga is my number one option for nights when I want to order for dinner. Unlike the other options on this list, Miga does not have a sit-down option for the restaurant; it is a food delivery and take-out restaurant. However, their dumplings are to die for and ordering from Miga is my favourite thing to do after a long day.
There you have it, some of my top spots in Waterloo for some great food and vibes. When it comes down to taste, affordability and atmosphere these restaurants come out on top. So what are you waiting for? Go try them out!