Family-Friendly Restaurants Near NC State Campus
Whether you're visiting campus for a game, touring with your high-schooler, or you just live nearby, the NC State area has a surprisingly great food scene. Hillsborough Street and the surrounding blocks offer options that work for families even in a college-town setting.
Hillsborough Street
Boba Tea House is a Hillsborough Street highlight. The boba drinks are customizable (kids love choosing flavors and toppings), and the popcorn chicken and other Taiwanese snacks are excellent. Drinks $5-7, food items $4-8. The space is casual and the staff is used to big groups.
Mitch's Tavern has been a campus institution since 1933. While it's technically a bar/restaurant, the lunch crowd is mellow and family-appropriate. The burgers and fries are solid pub food, and the atmosphere has a nostalgic college-town charm. Lunch $8-14. Best for families during daytime hours.
DeMo's Pizzeria and Deli serves massive New York-style slices that impress both parents and kids. It's fast, it's cheap (slices $3-5), and it's the kind of place where a folded pizza slice is perfectly acceptable dining etiquette. Limited seating.
Jason's Deli near Hillsborough is a reliable chain option with a solid salad bar, sandwiches, and a free ice cream cone for kids. Meals $8-12 per person. The ice cream machine is always a hit.
Near Campus
Howling Cow Ice Cream at the NC State Creamery is a must-visit. Made by dairy science students, the ice cream is fresh, creamy, and affordable ($3-4 per scoop). It's educational and delicious — the perfect campus stop with kids. Seasonal hours, so check before visiting.
Jubala Coffee on Hillsborough Street has excellent coffee for parents and a welcoming atmosphere for families. The food menu includes pastries and sandwiches. Lattes $5-6, food $4-9.
Game Day Dining
If you're heading to a Wolfpack game, eating near campus is both convenient and part of the experience.
Before the game:
After the game:
Campus Tour Day Itinerary
When we brought our niece for a campus tour, here's what we did: 1. Morning: Coffee at Jubala 2. Campus tour: Walk around, visit the Brickyard, see the Belltower 3. Lunch: Pizza at DeMo's 4. Afternoon treat: Ice cream at Howling Cow 5. Early dinner: Boba Tea House
Total food budget for three people: about $45.
Parking Tips Near NC State
Parking near campus can be challenging, especially on game days:
Quick Reference
| Restaurant | Distance from Campus | Best For | Price | |—————-|——————————-|—————|———-| | Boba Tea House | On Hillsborough | Fun drinks + snacks | $ | | DeMo's Pizza | On Hillsborough | Quick pizza slices | $ | | Howling Cow | On campus | Campus ice cream | $ | | Jubala Coffee | On Hillsborough | Coffee + pastries | $ | | Mitch's Tavern | On Hillsborough | Classic pub food | $$ |
NC State's surrounding food scene makes campus visits with the whole family easy and enjoyable.
More Guides You'll Love
Mom Tip
Got a tip about this topic? We're building a community of Triangle moms who share their insider knowledge. Stay tuned.