Restaurants In Lawrence That Are Worth The Hype: College Student Edition
Looking for new restaurants that value locally sourced ingredients, trendy atmospheres, and quality service? I’ve been to quite a few restaurants in Lawrence, and these are my absolute favorites.
Photo courtesy of Limestone Pizza
College towns don’t just serve “college food”– in fact, Lawrence, Kansas is known for some of the best food in the state. Access to locally grown ingredients, fresh summertime produce, and creative minds make for some of the best dishes around. Hop in the car and give these spots a try!
During these times, remember to call the restaurant/bar or check social media ahead of time for current offerings like curbside and carry-out if that’s your preference, as well as mandates like mask wearing, to protect yourself and others. Stay safe, support local, and keep exploring!
Photo courtesy of Limestone Pizza
Limestone Pizza
814 Massachusetts Street, Lawrence
Limestone Pizza is a locally owned restaurant and bar serving freshly made-to-order Neapolitan pizza, and yes, it’s made with local ingredients! Whether you're craving a traditional margarita pizza pie or something new and quirky like their asparagus pizza, you will be happy with whatever you choose.
What to order:
The Farmer. A pizza with local bacon, gruyere, local egg, and swiss chard. Also you must get an order of fries with their homemade spicy ketchup. It’s life changing, I wouldn't lie to you.
Photo courtesy of 1900 Barker Bakery
1900 Barker
1900 Barker Avenue, Lawrence
Ugh, this place is flawless. I mean that. Serving speciality coffee, organic hand-made bread, and seasonal pastries. The owner of 1900 Barker is a James Beard Award Semi-Finalist. Every time I come here I am amazed by the amount of detail and passion that is being put into their food and drink.
What to order :
The Pain Au Chocolat, a croissant filled with Valrhona 63% manjari chocolate. Or the Raspberry Cream Cheese Danish with homemade local berry jam and vanilla cream cheese custard. I could go on for years about this place. To be honest, order everything. Don’t limit yourself. Life is short guys, make it count.
Photo by Kara Lust
Basil Leaf
616 West 9th Street, Lawrence
I use to frequently visit this restaurant when they operated out of a gas station. Well, now they have their own store front and I’m still their #1 fan. Basil Leaf is the best Italian restaurant in Lawrence, hands down. They have absolutely perfected pasta, and they know it.
What to order:
Their Mac & Cheese is to die for. Made with cavatelli, garlic, shallot and chardonnay. The best Mac & Cheese I've ever had in my life. If you’re feeling a little more fancy, the Tortellini Cordon Bleu is an amazing choice as well. You can’t go wrong here, everything is incredible.
Photo courtesy of BonBon!
Bon Bon!
currently closed down– follow their social media for announcements on pop-ups & future updates
Long ago, Food met Creativity, they had a baby, and that baby's name is Bon Bon! An eclectic modern restaurant focusing on locally sourced ingredients, and bringing the Lawrence community together through good eats. Bon Bon has an amazing atmosphere, where you automatically feel welcomed and excited to eat some delicious food.
What to order - The Sweet Gochujang Popcorn Chicken. This small plate packs some serious flavor and makes you excited to try something new. You also have to try their house-spun ice cream for dessert!
