Main Line, Pa -
Villanova University together with Greg Dodge of Zavino Hospitality Group (ZHG) has joined up for a sophisticated-yet-casual eatery and grill, which will most likely debut this August on the University’s Radnor Township campus. The dining establishment situated at the corner of Lancaster and Ithan Avenues inside The Commons, a cluster of brand new residence halls that are part of a $300 million improvement of the institution’s previous parking lots.
The University’s latest state-of-the-art Performing Arts Center, scheduled to open in early 2020, is going to be positioned adjacent to the new eatery. The Villanova-owned restaurant will offer elevated American favorites to the University community as well as area residents.
The university has selected “The Refectory” for the name of its new establishment—a phrase used to depict a dining room for typical meals at academic institutions and monasteries. The very first full-service restaurant at Villanova, the new restaurant and grill will offer a dynamic dining destination by combining the high energy of a bustling restaurant with the vibrant atmosphere of the University’s Main Line campus.
“The Refectory is a great addition to our campus, that has undergone a remarkable transformation in the past several years,” said the Rev. Peter M. Donohue, OSA, Ph.D., Villanova University President. “Villanova is excited to partner with Greg Dodge and Zavino Hospitality Group on our first full-service restaurant, which will create a Villanova-centric dining experience for our university and the local area. With its family-friendly surroundings and location in the heart of campus, I know it will most likely become a premier gathering spot for Villanovans, visitors, and patrons of all ages.”
The Refectory will highlight a horseshoe bar, highlighted along with marble tabletops, captain’s chairs, together with a casual but classy dining room, and finished off with cedar-stained floors. The vault room will accommodate private social gatherings as well as exclusive chef tastings. The room can comfortably accommodate a little over 200 guests, and this includes 18 seats in the bar section as well as loads of standing room, and the design will emphasize Villanova’s historical past and tradition along with artwork and various other design features.
