Searching for a new study nook? Look no further than the corner of Lancaster Avenue and Ithan Avenue, where Parliament, a quaint café, serves as the perfect escape from main campus. The new development is just one of the many additions in The Commons project that recently opened this fall. Directly next door is The Refectory, the first on-campus restaurant. Both businesses were developed by Villanova in partnership with Zavino Hospitality Group. 

But now to the most pressing question; what’s on the menu? Foodies, don’t worry. There is something to enjoy for every type of college student. Those who like to live life on the sweet side can choose from a cornucopia of treats within the pastry case. Homemade pies, sconesand brownies are mouthwatering enough to warrant tasting them all to find your new go-to. There is also a variety of butter-layered croissants, ranging from the unusual banana to a savorier alternative like spinach and feta. All the caffeine addicts will be satisfied with the rich and smooth blends packed into a selection of beverages. From iced coffees to organic green juices, whatever one’s preference is, they will be content from season to season. With autumn bringing inevitable colds, fight them with an organic loose-leaf hot tea or bottled kombucha. Even some chocolate therapy from a whipped cream-topped mocha will uplift anyone out of their cold weather doldrums. 

If you’re in the middle of a cafeteria food slump, pack variety into your diet by adding one of the ready-to-go meals to your routine. One cannot go wrong when choosing between Parliament’s filling breakfast sandwiches, flavorful pastas, and fresh salads. For vegetarian options, grab a protein box to keep you full all day or a mozzarella pesto panini. No matter your dietary restrictions or taste bud preferences, you will be satisfied without breaking the bank. 

The atmosphere of Parliament is what every university needs. The rustic wooden accents and soothing cream-colored walls give it the ideal cozy and tranquil setting to crank out a quick paper. Chatting with friends on the swiveling bar top chairs will make one feel like they’re back in grade school. The retro green checkered floors are a great backdrop for any social media post with your new favorite beverage. 

Although most Villanovans are die-hard Holy Grounds fans, you can split your time here. The great thing about Parliament is it takes Nova Bucks, so one is already incentivized to part with some laundry money and treat themselves with a foamy cappuccino. Most things are well under $10, perfect for a student’s sensitive budget. So, walk across the street and test out your new neighborhood café.