Every semester, the allure of Franklin Street in Chapel Hill draws UNC students away from campus dining halls. The promise to stick to meal plans often fades as the semester progresses, replaced by cravings for the diverse and delicious offerings of Franklin Street’s restaurants. If you’re a student or visitor looking for the best and most affordable eats, look no further. Franklin Street boasts a fantastic array of dining spots perfect for any budget and taste. Here are some top picks that consistently deliver on both quality and value.
Momo’s Master: A Taste of the Himalayas on Franklin Street
For a consistently satisfying and budget-friendly sit-down meal, Momo’s Master stands out as a top Franklin Street Chapel Hill restaurant. Describing itself as a Nepali bistro, Momo’s Master caters wonderfully to vegetarians, vegans, and meat-eaters alike. A local favorite, especially during the spring months, their steamed Himalayan dumplings are a must-try. For under $15, you can enjoy a full and flavorful meal, with just the right amount of spice to invigorate your senses – perfect for combating those allergy season blues. Momo’s Master provides a comforting and delicious escape right on Franklin Street.
Cosmic Cantina: Your Go-To Franklin Street Burrito Destination
Cosmic Cantina is practically synonymous with spontaneous hangouts in Chapel Hill. It’s the quintessential Franklin Street Chapel Hill restaurant for a quick, delicious, and affordable bite. Countless evenings out with friends often include a detour to Cosmic for a burrito fix before heading to the next event. While Carrburritos in nearby Carrboro is another great option, Cosmic Cantina holds its own as the best burrito spot directly on Franklin Street. A pro tip for budget-conscious diners: the vegan platter at Cosmic is a steal at under $7. It generously includes all the flavorful components of their veggie burrito, making it a personal favorite for an inexpensive and filling meal on Franklin Street.
Tea Hill: Boba Bliss on Franklin Street, Chapel Hill
When you’re craving something lighter and refreshing, Tea Hill is your best bet for boba tea near Franklin Street, Chapel Hill. While it might require a slightly longer walk from the heart of campus, Tea Hill is worth the extra steps for boba enthusiasts. It’s noticeably more affordable than other boba options closer to campus, like Möge Tee, and many would argue it surpasses the competition in quality and taste. Tea Hill offers an extensive menu of both fruit and milk teas, customizable with various toppings and add-ins. This Franklin Street Chapel Hill gem ensures there’s a perfect boba concoction for everyone, whether you’re vegan, an omnivore, or simply have a sweet tooth.
CholaNad: Elevated South Indian Dining on Franklin Street
If you’re seeking a slightly more upscale dining experience on Franklin Street, Chapel Hill, CholaNad is as close to fine dining as you’ll find in the area. This South Indian restaurant is a perfect choice for a celebratory meal, especially after finishing exams. While you might have sampled CholaNad’s offerings at the Lenoir dining hall on campus, the brick-and-mortar Franklin Street restaurant elevates the cuisine to a new level. It’s definitely on the pricier side compared to the other options mentioned, making it ideal for special occasions. If you decide to treat yourself, be sure to order the Gobi Manchurian – it’s arguably the best vegetarian dish available on Franklin Street and a true testament to CholaNad’s culinary expertise.
