Finding good food as a student isn’t just about filling up on the cheapest deal — it’s about discovering places where you can eat well, hang out with friends, and sometimes treat yourself without blowing your budget. Huddersfield may be smaller than Leeds or Manchester, but its food scene has plenty to offer, from cosy cafés and affordable international spots to stylish restaurants perfect for birthdays or post-exam celebrations.
To help you decide where to try first, we’ve rounded up the 16 best restaurants in Huddersfield for students. Each one is open, highly rated, and brings something different to the table — whether you’re after a quick brunch, a hearty Sunday roast, or a colourful dinner with friends.
1. Med-One
If you want flavour, variety, and generous portions without breaking the bank, Med-One is a strong pick. The Lebanese/Mediterranean menu includes mezze, shawarma, moussaka, and vegetarian/vegan options — all in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. People often praise the service as warm and attentive, and it’s a good place to go with friends for something a bit more interesting than usual takeaways.
📍 10-12 Westgate, Huddersfield, HD1 1NN
2. Eric’s Restaurant
Situated in Lindley, Eric’s is for when you want a nicer dinner with quality ingredients and a thoughtful menu. The setting is elegant but not so formal that you feel overdressed; Chef Jason Neilson brings creative British dishes, often with a European twist. For students, it’s ideal for special occasions — maybe a birthday or after exams — especially for classics like their Sunday roast or steak.
📍 73-75 Lidget Street, Lindley, Huddersfield, HD3 3JP
3. Norman’s Neighbourhood Kitchen
Tiny but mighty, Norman’s offers small plates and inventive seasonal dishes. The menu changes to reflect what’s fresh, so you might try something new each time. The atmosphere is intimate; it’s cosy, often busy, and feels stylish without being pretentious — good if you want food that impresses without costing the earth.
📍 22A North Road, Kirkburton, Huddersfield, HD8 0RH
4. The Manor House, Lindley – Lantern Room Restaurant
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For something a bit more upmarket, the Lantern Room inside The Manor House Lindley is excellent. Period features, elegant décor, and more refined dining make this one of the best places when you want to treat yourself. Their fine‐dining menu is carefully crafted using seasonal, local ingredients; portions are refined but satisfying. It’s not cheap, but for those evenings when you want something special, this delivers.
📍 1 Lidget Street, Lindley, Huddersfield, HD3 3JB
5. The Rusty Bull
A bit more relaxed in vibe, The Rusty Bull is based at Hinchliffe’s Farm. Think hearty food, great Sunday lunches, brunch options, quality British meat and fish, and views out to the countryside (Holme Valley etc). It’s perfect when you want something filling and comforting. A place to go when you have time, to linger, chat — it’s not rushed. They also do quizzes every now and then so watch out for those!
📍 Netherton Moor Road, Netherton, HD4 7LE
6. Home On Lindley
This is a good mid-price spot with a lively vibe. The menu has British tapas style dishes, which are great for sharing, and more exotic items too (slow-cooked Moroccan lamb, tandoori fish, ox cheek etc.). The décor is modern, there’s often a good crowd, and they rotate their seasonal menu so you get variety. Great for catching up with friends over a few small plates and a drink.
📍 17 Lidget Street, Lindley, Huddersfield, HD3 3JB
7. Punch Bar and Restaurant
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If you’re craving Spanish flavour, Punch (in Honley / Holmfirth area) does tapas and small plates well. The atmosphere is warm, the décor is Spanish-inspired, and they take care with ingredients. Also good value for the kind of cuisine — not super cheap, but for tapas style sharing meals with friends or dates it feels worth it.
📍 11 Westgate, Honley, Holmfirth, HD9 6AA
8. Arcade Coffee & Food
More café than restaurant, but when you need brunch, good sandwiches, or just some light but tasty food, Arcade is great. The surroundings are inviting, service is friendly, and prices are reasonable. Also good for working or catching up — some quiet corners, good coffee, decent snacks.
📍 9 Byram Arcade, Huddersfield, HD1 1ND
9. The Scullery Kitchen & Bar
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Stylish, slightly more refined, but still not off-limits for students who want something nicer. They do brunch, lunch, dinner, and they have “bottomless brunch” offerings too. The menu is well thought-out, presentation is good, and it’s the kind of place you go to when you want food you’ll remember — whether that’s fish dishes, chef specials or nicely done cocktails alongside dinner.
📍 Bents House, 21 Belmont Street, Huddersfield, HD1 5BZ
10. The Ephesus Restaurant
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Turkish food lovers will enjoy Ephesus. The mixed grill, lamb kofte, and starters are often praised for being generous and flavourful, with good sides and that warm, communal atmosphere. Portions are hearty, so good value for sharing or when you want something substantial. If you’re looking for something different and filling, this should be on your list.
📍 52 John William St, Huddersfield HD1 1ER
11. Rivers Restaurant
Chinese cuisine with range and quality. What’s good here is that it’s not just your typical takeaway-style menu; there are some more elaborate dishes with sauces, seafood, and options for those who want to try something a bit more refined. The staff are often commended for attentive service, and food tends to come in decent time. Great for nights when you fancy Chinese, want to explore more than chow mein, and expect something a little bit nicer.
📍 1-3 Cross Church St, Huddersfield HD1 2PY
12. The Golden Cock, Farnley Tyas
Slightly out of town, but if you fancy a drive or are living in the outskirts, The Golden Cock is superb for pub-food with charm. The menu has pub classics done well, seasonal dishes, good desserts, and great service. The building and setting are pleasant, and it often has a relaxed, friendly crowd. Could be great for a weekend treat.
📍 2 The Village, Farnley Tyas, Huddersfield HD4 6UD
13. Warehouse Huddersfield
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Recently refurbished and reopened, Warehouse combines a pub atmosphere with a restaurant menu. It’s comfortable, casual, often chosen by locals and students alike who want reliable food, friendly staff, and a place that suits both drinks and meals. Good option when you want somewhere central, not too fancy, but better than fast food.
📍 12 Zetland St, Huddersfield HD1 2RA
14. International Kitchen (on Campus, University of Huddersfield)
For budget-friendly and convenience, this is a student classic. Located in Student Central (Level 4), it serves international food, with halal options, changing dishes, and good value. If you need something quick between lectures or don’t want to go far yet still want variety, this is one of the best choices.
📍 Level 4, Student Central, University of Huddersfield
15. Punk Mama’s Pizza and Pasta (on Campus)
Another campus favourite. Create your own pizza or pasta, or pick from set options. Good if you want something filling that’s comforting and fast. Great when collaborations, study groups or late afternoons need a food boost.
📍 Level 4, Student Central, University of Huddersfield
16. Om is Where The Heart Is (Nom Brunch and Bar)
If you’re leaning towards vegetarian/vegan or want lighter, healthier food, Nom Brunch and Bar café inside Om is Where The Heart Is fits well. Offers fresh juices, smoothies, balanced meals, and a chill atmosphere. Good when you want something restorative after a long week. The décor tends to be calming and the staff supportive of dietary preferences. You could also catch a yoga class or workshop while you’re there to make a full self-care day of it.
📍 23A Carr Ln, Slaithwaite, Huddersfield HD7 5AG
Because the restaurant scene changes, always check opening times before you go (especially midweek or off-peak). Some may have seasonal hours or be closed on certain days. Many restaurants also have student deals, so make sure you look out for those!
FAQs on the Best Restaurants in Huddersfield for Students
Students love a mix of budget friendly independents and quick comfort food. Expect plenty of pizza and pasta spots, curry houses, burger joints, street food style diners, and cafés that do all day breakfasts and loaded sandwiches.
Look for lunchtime specials, early evening set menus, and student discounts from Sunday to Thursday. Many places near the town centre and around campus run 2 for 1 mains, burger and fries deals, or pizza slices with a soft drink for a few pounds.
Yes. Many student friendly spots offer strong veggie and vegan options such as plant based burgers, loaded fries, wraps, pasta, and curries. Cafés often have vegan cakes and dairy free milks, and several restaurants can adapt dishes on request.
The town centre is your safest bet for pre drinks food and late bites thanks to fast service and longer hours. Places around Kingsgate and near the university are popular for quick dinners before heading to bars or club nights.
Most casual restaurants welcome groups and offer shareable options like platters, large pizzas, and combo deals. Book ahead for peak nights and ask about set menus for societies. Splitting sides and going for water or soft drinks keeps costs down.
