You may think The Villanovan is just a group of writers, but this week, we’re looking into the future.
That’s right–we’ve got the scoop on what 2025 holds for food and beverage trends in and around Villanova. From sushi stations in Cafe Nova to dorm dinner parties, the upcoming year is shaping up to be a foodie’s paradise. So, if you’re curious about what’s next for campus dining and local favorites, we’ve got all the predictions right here.
What’s New on the Menu
Let’s start with the star of the show: “ヴィ Sushi” in Cafe Nova. This new sushi station will be serving up hand-rolled sushi every weekday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and again for dinner from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. (though it will close early on Fridays). It’s fresh, flavorful and perfectly portioned for a quick meal between classes.
If sushi isn’t your thing, head over to Smoothitas at the Connelly Center for açaí bowls loaded with all your favorite toppings. Whether you’re fueling up for class or just want a colorful snack to brighten your day, this spot is about to become your go-to.
Pop-Up Chefs and Pasta Dreams
Remember when Napoletano Brothers set up shop outside the Connelly Center last year, serving pasta straight out of a cheese wheel? That pop-up was such a hit that Villanova’s dining team is already planning more collaborations with local chefs and restaurants. These pop-ups bring a little change to campus and make dining feel like a special event—something students can get excited about.
Food That Fuels Both Body and Mind
It’s not just about taste. Food on campus is becoming a way to bring people together and promote healthy habits. According to Sodexo’s 2024-2025 Student Lifestyle Survey, incredible food is the top driver of campus engagement. We see Villanova Dining leaning into this with a focus on functional foods that support both physical and mental health. Think nutrient-packed options that don’t just fuel your body but also make you feel good inside and out.
Dinner Parties Are In
With everything going on in the world, students are keeping it cozy with intimate, at-home dinner parties, and Villanova’s dining options are making it easier than ever. Aneu Kitchen in Bryn Mawr now accepts NovaBucks, offering healthy pre-made meals and a coffee bar that’s just a short walk from campus. It’s perfect for hosting or grabbing a quick bite between classes, and it’s definitely going to be a favorite this year.
Holy Grounds Steps It Up
We all know the struggle of trying to grab a Holy Grounds coffee and make it to class on time. Last year’s shift to mobile pre-ordered Starbucks was big, but there were a few bumps along the way. This year, expect those kinks to be smoothed out so you can snag your caffeine fix without the stress. No more running into class five minutes late – hopefully.
Villanova’s dining scene is serving more than just meals in 2025. It’s creating experiences—whether it’s sushi in Cafe Nova, smoothies at Smoothitas or dorm dinner parties with meals from Aneu. Add in the excitement of pop-up chefs and the promise of functional foods, and it’s clear that this year’s food forecast is looking pretty tasty.