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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Chill spots in University Place

The pace of the day has been too fast and a quiet, low-pressure environment is necessary.

Based on 715 Opinions
+712
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Updated May 2026
01
Meltwich image 1
Meltwich image 2
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Sandwich shop

Small sandwich shop offers a chill atmosphere with several TV screens for entertainment. Thick, fresh fries and flavorful sandwiches stand out as signature features. Space is clean and cozy, creating a welcoming vibe that feels easygoing and calm.

A chill and relaxed atmosphere defines the place, creating a lax environment that feels easygoing. The vibe stays consistently super chill, making it a calm spot to enjoy good food.

People are saying

"The food here, especially the Hot Mess Fries, has great flavor."

"It's a super chill place with a relaxed atmosphere."

"I thought the standard burger was great."

Good to know

1

Meltwich offers a military and student discount.

2

The menu features a variety of melt sandwiches, burgers, and poutines.

3

Prices at Meltwich are reasonable for the portion sizes.

02
Milton's image 1
Italian restaurant

Restaurant channels 1920s speakeasy style with retro yet sophisticated design and tight seating. Casual yet romantic ambience sets a relaxed tone where dress ranges from fur coat to jeans and sneakers. Music plays at a perfect volume, enhancing the warm, inviting energy.

Casual yet romantic ambience sets a relaxed tone. Dress ranges from fur coat to jeans and sneakers, making it easygoing and flexible.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is unique and creative, with standout dishes like lasagna and arancini."

"The food here is delicious and unique, perfect for Date Spots."

"The food here is flavorful and prepared with attention to detail."

Good to know

1

Reservations are often full, so book well in advance.

2

The menu rotates frequently, offering fresh and seasonal dishes.

3

All pastas are made in-house, ensuring quality and freshness.

03
Sushi by Hidden image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant offers an intimate setting with fresh, creative nigiri served right before you. Colorful curated art adds to the casual atmosphere. Cozy service and a laid-back vibe make it perfect for a chill night with friends.

Fun and casual atmosphere sets a chill vibe where about 8 people can feel social yet relaxed. Service stays cozy and casual, matching the overall laid-back setting.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so well crafted, with delicious fish."

"The staff here makes the Japanese food experience feel personal and immersive."

"The service here is so casual and cozy, it's great."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required due to limited seating in this small restaurant.

2

The 12-course omakase costs $60 for lunch and $75 for dinner.

3

Sushi by Hidden is BYOB with a $20 corkage fee for a 720ml bottle.

04
Grand Prize image 1

Two floors blend a lively dance area with a chill back patio. DJs spin upstairs, setting a dynamic music scene while colorful lights create a vibrant atmosphere. Pool tables and outdoor seating add relaxed options to the energetic vibe.

Cozy first floor feels like a teenage bedroom with colorful lights and a casual vibe. The back patio offers a super chill atmosphere perfect for relaxed drinks and easy nights.

People are saying

"I found the bar to have a fun dive bar energy."

"The outdoor seating here has a really chill vibe."

"It's a great chill place with a fun, colorful atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Parking is free, but it's street parking only in a residential area.

2

Expect limited parking availability, especially on weekend nights.

3

On Wednesday nights, they host a drag show that starts earlier than most.

05
The Podium at Porsche River Oaks image 1

Bar inside a garage with Porsche theme and industrial design offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for work or casual drinks. Cocktails and coffee are top-notch, with plenty of seating in an open space that stays consistently chill.

Extremely relaxed atmosphere with a large open space offering plenty of seating. The vibe stays consistently chill, making it a cool spot for drinks and coffee.

People are saying

"The coffee here was surprisingly delightful and great."

"The bartenders here are so creative and friendly, making great cocktails."

"It's a really cool and chill spot to hang out."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is available, but there is no self-parking option.

2

Cashless payments are required; no cash is accepted.

3

Customers must make a purchase within 30 minutes to stay.

06
The Owl image 1

Old vault room offers a laid-back vibe perfect for unwinding. Dim lighting and owl motifs create a classy atmosphere with a fun twist. Games like darts and trivia keep energy lively and eclectic while patio seating invites socializing.

A laid-back vibe fills the old vault room, making it easy to unwind. Staff keep things chill, adding to the relaxed atmosphere throughout the bar.

People are saying

"It's a super chill, laid-back neighborhood bar."

"I found the pizza to be really good and better than expected."

"I enjoyed the local beer selection and cold beer."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7pm with drinks and free popcorn.

2

Trivia night happens every Tuesday, making it a fun night out.

3

The bar stays open until 2am for late-night patrons.

07
The Big Easy image 1
Live music bar

Old school blues bar offers live blues and zydeco music in a laidback environment. Small, divey space hosts a friendly crowd sharing love for roots music. Tiny dance floor adds to the intimate vibe and easygoing atmosphere.

A laidback environment sets the tone with a chill vibe where different folks gather. Live music adds to the casual, easygoing atmosphere.

People are saying

"This blues bar has a nostalgic, old-school vibe with great live music."

"The live music vibe here is so chill and fun."

"It's a laidback environment with a great vibe."

Good to know

1

There is no food available, but you can bring your own.

2

The entrance fee is $10.

3

Parking is limited, so arrive early.

08
Japanese Ramen Gachi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small space with stylish wooden booths and dim lighting creates an intimate, chill vibe. Authentic ramen here is best outside Japan. Laid back and quiet with chill background music keeps the mood pleasant even as it gets popular.

Laid back and quiet atmosphere with chill background music like Khruangbin sets a pleasant tone. The vibe stays good and chill even as popularity grows.

People are saying

"I found the ramen here to be delicious with a rich, flavorful broth."

"The atmosphere here is so cozy and relaxing."

"It's a super chill vibe with quiet, pleasant background music."

Good to know

1

Ample parking is available nearby.

2

Expect to wait during peak hours due to the small space.

3

The restroom cleanliness is a concern, with reports of it being dirty.

09
The Teahouse image 1
Bubble tea store

Bubble tea store offers board games and a cozy atmosphere perfect for chilling with friends. Seating near walls has power outlets for longer stays. Evenings get busy but the vibe stays relaxed and quiet.

Cozy atmosphere creates a great spot to chill. The interior feels very relaxed, making it good for hanging out but not ideal for studying.

People are saying

"I loved the cream tea, especially the jasmine and caramel flavors."

"The food here is delicious and reasonably priced."

"It's a dope place to hang out and chill."

Good to know

1

The Teahouse is open until 12 AM, perfect for late-night cravings.

2

Parking can be difficult due to assigned spaces for other businesses.

3

The drinks and food are consistently high quality and affordable.

10
Under the Volcano image 1
Cocktail bar

Tiki bar blends authentic decor with a cozy atmosphere perfect for chilling. Indoor and outdoor seating includes a beautiful patio where smoking is allowed. Music comes from an eclectic jukebox and live shows, keeping vibes calm and lively.

A relaxing tiki bar vibe sets a chill tone here. The atmosphere stays quiet and calm, fitting for casual hangs or special events.

People are saying

"I found the cocktails here to be expertly made and creative."

"I loved the empanadas, especially the beef, curry, and spinach varieties."

"It's a really chill spot with a relaxing, authentic vibe."

Good to know

1

On Mondays, they offer a $27 steak night with ribeye or strip, served with salad and mashed potatoes.

2

On Tuesdays, they offer a huge discount for Taco Tuesday.

3

Live music happens every Wednesday night.

11
Little Woodrow's Rice Village image 1

Sports bar shines with many TVs and a pet-friendly patio for a chill vibe. Draft beer and games like Connect Four keep fun casual. Cozy space invites friends to relax and chat after work.

A very chill atmosphere with good vibes makes it a great spot to relax and chat after work or hang out with friends.

People are saying

"It's a great place to watch the game with friends."

"They have a wide selection of draft beers, from local to international."

"It's a great spot to chill with friends."

Good to know

1

Little Woodrow's Rice Village does not serve food.

2

You can bring outside food to Little Woodrow's Rice Village.

3

Little Woodrowโ€™s agrees to have customers towed.

12
Salento Bistrot image 1
Spanish restaurant

Spanish restaurant blends intimate atmosphere with live jazz music on a chic patio. Friendly, professional service enhances the chill vibe perfect for brunch or lunch. Outdoor seating offers people watching and a casual, European-inspired feel.

A chill atmosphere with friendly and professional service makes it easy to relax during brunch or lunch. Casual dress and a beautifully decorated space add to the laid-back vibe.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful, tasty, and outstanding."

"The outdoor patio has live music and is dog-friendly."

"It's a chill place for brunch with friends."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky; expect to pay $2 per hour for street parking.

2

Happy hour prices are available before the dinner rush.

3

Live music occurs on Wednesday evenings and Saturdays.

13
Croissant-Brioche image 1

European-style bakery offers cozy indoor seating and wooden bistro furniture for a relaxed vibe. Friendly service and mocha make it perfect to chill. Eclectic decor and original artwork create an intellectually stimulating atmosphere.

Cozy, quaint interior creates a casual vibe. Friendly service and good food make it a cool spot to chill. Mocha pairs well for a relaxed outing.

People are saying

"This cozy spot feels like a little corner of France for coffee."

"It's a cozy spot that feels like a little corner of France."

"It's a cozy, quaint interior with a really chill vibe."

Good to know

1

The shop opens at 7:00am.

2

Seating is limited.

3

Parking was complicated on Saturday morning, and I had to park in another block.

14
Hu's Cooking image 1
Chinese restaurant

Vibrant atmosphere blends elegance and comfort with a cozy, cramped space. Casual vibe suits family gatherings and friends, with affordable prices and tasty Chinese food. Lighting and noise shift from quiet to lively, matching the crowd.

Casual atmosphere makes it easy to relax while enjoying tasty Chinese food. Affordable prices and a setting suited for family gatherings or hanging out with friends add to the chill vibe.

People are saying

"I thought the Chinese food here was the most authentic and tasty possible."

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and affordable."

"The food here is so flavorful and generously portioned."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited and can be challenging, especially during busy hours.

2

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant offers dim sum during specific hours, check their schedule.

15
Frnds image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant blends modern sophistication with a chill R&B vibe for a relaxed, peaceful atmosphere. Live DJ plays balanced music that energizes without overpowering. Outdoor seating and cozy armchairs offer comfort alongside attentive service, perfect for laid-back happy hours.

A chill R&B vibe sets the tone around early evening, creating a relaxed atmosphere. Good music pairs with fun, chill vibes and attentive service, making it a solid spot for a laid-back happy hour.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding, fresh, and full of flavor."

"The servers here are so attentive and make great suggestions for your date."

"The vibe here is so nice and chill, perfect for happy hour."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on Thursdays with no actual discounts.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger parties of 8 or more.

3

Expect long wait times for food during busy events, like ladies night.

16
Dave's Hot Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Small space with outdoor seating offers a chill vibe and relaxed staff. Loud chair noises and poor acoustics challenge the atmosphere, but good music keeps energy high. Crowd loves spicy, crispy chicken with bold flavors.

Super casual setting creates a chill vibe throughout the visit. Staff and atmosphere both feel very relaxed and welcoming.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"I loved that all the food here is Halal."

"I found the vibe and environment here to be super chill."

Good to know

1

Parking is generally easy at this location.

2

The price for a single chicken tender is $4.95.

3

They serve halal food options.

17
Simone on Sunset image 1
Cocktail bar

Cozy, chic cocktail bar with a secret dance floor and outdoor patio sets a laid-back vibe perfect for chilling. Music shifts from chill tunes to salsa beats, creating a lively yet relaxed spot. Comfortable seating and illuminated menus add to the inviting atmosphere.

A very chill vibe defines the spot, making it a great neighborhood bar to relax and unwind.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are innovative, thoughtfully crafted, and truly next-level."

"I had to pour my own water and fetch a knife for the cheese board."

"It's a cozy yet stylish atmosphere that feels effortlessly cool."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 PM to 7 PM, Monday through Friday, with great drink deals.

2

Thursday nights feature a special steak night with perfectly cooked steaks.

3

Parking is limited, but valet service is available for $5.

18
Ar-Haan image 1
Thai restaurant

Small dining area with intimate setting and authentic Thai decor offers a warm, cozy vibe. Fresh, flavorful Thai dishes shine in this relaxed atmosphere. Host is super chill and friendly, adding to the casual ambience.

Bright yet casual ambience creates a relaxed setting. The host is super chill and friendly, making the atmosphere comfortable.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful and delicious."

"The food here is amazing, especially the Khao Soi."

"The food here is delicious; I loved the Khao Soi."

Good to know

1

Parking at this restaurant is limited, so arrive early.

2

Expect higher prices compared to other Thai restaurants in the area.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian options on the menu.

19
Kasra Persian Grill image 1
Persian restaurant

Contemporary design with retro-modern art creates a stylish, chill atmosphere. Spacious layout fits groups well, balancing cozy vibe with lively energy during busy times. Beautiful chandeliers add a museum-like touch to the relaxing setting.

Fun interior decor sets a chill atmosphere. The vibe stays cozy and relaxed, balancing between formal and casual.

People are saying

"The lamb kubideh food is so juicy and seasoned perfectly."

"The service here is so attentive and genuinely welcoming."

"The Persian food here is so authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Kasra Persian Grill offers only to-go service and has parking available.

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially after 6:30 PM when lines form.

3

I paid $30 for the happy hour special that included three appetizers and a bottle of wine.

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University Place, Houston

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