5 Mu5 Must-Try Food Spots Near De Montfort University

Are you planning a visit to Leicester or starting a semester at De Montfort University (DMU)? Situated right on the banks of the River Soar and just steps from the historic city center, the DMU campus is perfectly placed for foodies.

Leicester is famous for its diversity, and nowhere is this more evident than in its food scene. Whether you are a student on a budget or a traveler looking for a local gem, here is a curated guide to the best eats within walking distance of the campus.

1. The Local Legend: Boo

Best for: The ultimate burger experience.

Distance from Campus: ~10 min walk.

Forget the big chains; Boo is a Leicester-born success story that has taken the city by storm. Located on London Road (with a new spot near Highcross), they specialize in American-style smash burgers. The beef is locally sourced, the buns are brioche, and the "House Fries" are mandatory. It is fast, fresh, and arguably the best burger in town.

2. The Brunch Spot: Kai

Best for: Instagram-worthy pancakes and coffee.

Distance from Campus: ~5 min walk.

Tucked away in the beautiful St Martin's Square, Kai is the go-to spot for a relaxing morning. Their stack of American pancakes—topped with everything from maple syrup and bacon to fresh berries and yogurt—is legendary among students. It's a cozy spot with a great aesthetic, perfect for catching up on reading or meeting friends.

3. The Sweet Treat: Gelato Village

Best for: Authentic Italian Gelato.

Distance from Campus: ~5 min walk (Right next to Kai).

You don't need to go to Rome for world-class ice cream. Gelato Village is an award-winning gelateria that takes authenticity seriously. They use local milk and high-quality ingredients (like pistachios from Sicily). The menu changes daily based on seasonal ingredients. Pro Tip: Try the "Richard III" flavor—a rose blossom and berry tribute to the King buried nearby.

4. The Healthy Fix: Grounded Kitchen

Best for: Korean-inspired nourish bowls.

Distance from Campus: ~8 min walk.

Need a break from fried food? Grounded Kitchen focuses on "feeding your mind, body, and soul." They serve incredible Korean-inspired bowls filled with fresh veggies, rice/noodles, and spicy sauces (Go-Bangs). It is a huge hit with the student population because it's filling, healthy, and reasonably priced.

5. The Budget Adventure: Narborough Road

Best for: World cuisine on a budget.

Distance from Campus: ~5 min walk (Across the river).

Just across the bridge from the DMU campus lies Narborough Road, once officially named the "most diverse street in Britain." This isn't a single restaurant, but a mile-long stretch of Turkish BBQ grills, Polish bakeries, Indian curry houses, and vibrant grocery stores. If you want a cheap, delicious, and culturally rich meal, just take a walk down this road and see what smells good!

Final Thoughts 

One of the best things about De Montfort University is how integrated it is with the city. You are never more than a few minutes away from a great meal. So, put down the instant noodles and explore the culinary streets of Leicester!

Have you visited Leicester? Share your favorite food spots in the comments below!