#UofTGrad16: 10 places to eat during convocation

In all the excitement surrounding convocation, it’s easy to forget that in between showing family and friends around campus, scouting out the best places to take photos in your grad getup, and, oh yes, attending your actual graduation ceremony, you’re going to need to eat.

To that end, we’ve rounded up 10 restaurants near U of T’s Convocation Hall that would be perfect for a celebratory meal with your loved ones.

Fresh: On the off-chance you’ve already been celebrating a little too hard, Fresh’s fruit-full smoothies and menu packed with healthy and delicious vegetarian fare might be the perfect spot to stop for a casual lunch or dinner to fuel your big day. http://freshrestaurants.ca/

Thai Basil: This Bloor Street spot boasts generous portions of reasonably-priced, authentic Thai food, modern décor and fun cocktails. Try the rosebud ginger tea if you need to calm pre- or post-ceremony nerves. There are plenty of vegetarian options here too! http://thaibasil.ca/

La Société: Feeling all dressed up with no place to go after your ceremony? Why not treat yourself and your folks to dinner at La Société? This stunning piece of Paris overlooking Bloor Street on the edge of Yorkville will make you think you’ve died and gone to heaven (if your version of heaven includes sumptuous 1920s décor and a seafood platter with champagne). http://toronto.lasociete.ca/

Mother’s Dumplings: This lively, casual spot on the edge of Chinatown is arguably the best dumpling restaurant in the city. In any case, it’s within walking distance from Convocation Hall, and is the perfect place to share a feast of house-made Chinese comfort food with your family and friends. http://www.mothersdumplings.com/

Gallery Grill: If you never treated yourself to lunch at U of T’s own on-campus gourmet restaurant during your time studying here, now might be the perfect time to check out the Gallery Grill in Hart House. The food is top notch and the vaulted ceilings and stained-glass windows looking out on to the Hart House courtyard are reminiscent of the Hogwarts dining hall. The restaurant is open for lunch, but we’d suggest making reservations for this one. http://harthouse.ca/gallery-grill/

Mercurio: L’espresso Bar Mercurio is another great option for a convocation day lunch. This bustling spot offers much more than espresso. Their lunch menu features scrumptious salads, sandwiches and a mean fish and chips, as well as a dedicated gluten-free menu. If the weather allows, you can also enjoy their lovely outdoor patio.  http://www.lespressobarmercurio.com/dining.html 

Red Room: The ultimate in casual student dining, Red Room on Spadina is cheap, cheerful and shabby-chic, with plenty of room to relax with a group and grab a bite if you need a break from the pomp and circumstance of convocation. http://www.toronto.com/restaurants/red-room/

The Oxley: British food might not be the first thing you think of for a special dinner out, but this Yorkville gastro pub will change your mind. Their dinner menu is short but sweet and their bar snack menu is decidedly unique. Pheasant and rhubarb toast, anyone? http://theoxley.com/

Margaritas:  As the name suggests, this 22-year-old Baldwin Village staple makes mean margaritas and delicious Mexican dishes. They also have a small patio if you’re jonesing for some fresh air with your guacamole. http://margaritasfiestaroom.ca/

Museum Tavern: This classically-styled bistro offers all your favourite pub classics, but better. Their soups, salads and burgers are delicious, and their truffled mushroom perogies are borderline addictive. Enjoy them with a view of the ROM and Philosopher’s walk from their patio. http://www.museumtavern.ca/

And of course, if you’re famished on campus, there are myriad cafeterias, coffee shops and food trucks to choose from! Happy eating, and don’t forget to tag your convocation-related photos with #UofTGrad16 for a chance to be featured on our social media channels.