The Refectory

Name: The Refectory
Address: 862 Lancaster Avenue, Villanova, PA, United States, 19085
Telephone: (610) 519-5786
Price range: $31 to $50
Rating: 4.6

4.6

1013 Reviews

$31 to $50

Contemporary American

Make a reservation

2 people

Feb 16, 2025

7:00 p.m.

Booked 57 times today

Good for special occasions
Lively
Good for business meals

The Refectory is a stunning New American restaurant located on Lancaster Avenue in Villanova. The menu features modern and upscale interpretations of American comfort classics such as homemade pastas, wood-fired flatbreads, a raw bar, craft cocktails and specialty homemade desserts. Our kitchen's philosophy is to keep it simple and straightforward, with a lot of thought and technique put behind each dish and ingredient.

The Refectory is open for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. We validate parking in the I-1 garage across the street. For parties of 9 or more guests, please contact the restaurant directly by calling (610) 519-5786 or by emailing info@refectorynova.com. Please call or email with any questions and we will return your message.

Dining areas

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Elegant
Price
$31 to $50
Cuisines
Contemporary American, Cocktail Bar, Oyster Bar
Hours of Operation
Brunch Sat, Sun 10:30 am–3:00 pm Lunch Mon–Fri 11:30 am–3:00 pm Dinner Mon–Thu, Sun 3:00 pm–10:00 pm Fri, Sat 3:00 pm–11:00 pm Happy Hour Daily 4:00 pm–6:00 pm
Phone number
(610) 519-5786
Website
http://www.refectorynova.com/
Payment Options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Dress code
Casual Dress
Executive Chef
Biff Gottehrer, Michael Murray
Private party facilities
We offer several private and semi-private dining and event options. The private President's Dining Room accommodates up to 14 guests for a seated function, while semi-private areas of our dining room can be set up for guests ranging from 25-80. Inquire for restaurant buyouts. Contact our Event Director, Devin Simpson at devin@refectorynova.com

Location
862 Lancaster Avenue, Villanova, PA 19085
Neighbourhood
Villanova
Cross Street
Ithan Ave
Parking details
Public Lot
Public transit
PARKING GARAGE INFORMATION: Parking is only available across the street from The Refectory at the Villanova I-1 Parking Garage located on South Ithan Avenue. There are no timing restrictions for vehicles parked at the I-1 Parking Garage for guests dining at The Refectory. The rates are as follows: the 1st hour is free, two hours is $2, and up to four hours is $5. Currently, we do not validate parking. Upon entry, pull a ticket and park on any of the first 3 floors. A pay machine accepting cash and credit is located by the Main Pedestrian Entrance/Exit on Floor 2. The exit lanes only accept credit cards and do not accept cash. To get to the Refectory from the Parking Garage from Floor 2, use the pedestrian walkway across Ithan Avenue. The Refectory is located in The Commons, the stone mixed-use residential and commercial building on the corner of Ithan & Lancaster Avenue. Look for restaurant signage and call us at 610-519-5786 if you have any issues
Additional
Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Non-Smoking, Private Room, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Gift card

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Popular dishes

Ricotta DoughnutsUS$11.00
seasonal jam, nutella
Peanut Butter CakeUS$11.00
housemade rocky road ice cream, peanut butter ganache, chocolate sauce
Cosmic Deep Dish BrownieUS$11.00
fudge, chocolate chip candy
Bread PuddingUS$11.00
housemade rum raisin ice cream, fig & red wine reduction
Autumn TartUS$17.00
Apple, pear, housemade cream cheese ice cream, salted caramel bourbon sauce
Black Forest Chocolate TartUS$11.00
cherry mousse, cherry puree, chocolate ganache
TiramisuUS$11.00
a traditional favorite!

Amaro

AvernaUS$15.00
BraulioUS$15.00
CardamaroUS$13.00
Contratto FernetUS$11.00
CynarUS$10.00
Fernet BrancaUS$12.00
Lazzaroni AmaroUS$12.00
Meletti AmaroUS$11.00
MontenegroUS$14.00
NoninoUS$21.00
Santa MariaUS$11.00
SfumatoUS$10.00
UnderbergUS$7.00

Port

Quinta RubyUS$9.00
Quinta TawnyUS$9.00
Quinta WhiteUS$9.00

Sherry

El Maestro Sierra PXUS$19.00
El Maestro FinoUS$17.00
Aurora AmontilladoUS$13.00
Aurora ManzanillaUS$15.00
Aurora OlorosoUS$15.00

Brandy

Ansac CognacUS$10.00
Chte. de Pellehaut ArmangacUS$15.00
Gilles Brisson Cognac VSUS$13.00
Gilles Brisson Cognac VSOPUS$20.00
Gilles Brisson Cognac XOUS$47.00
Laird's Bonded Apple BrandyUS$12.00
Resurgent Apple BrandyUS$18.00
Sibona Madeira GrappaUS$10.00

Other Tasty Treats

DisaronnoUS$10.00
FrangelicoUS$12.00
Five Farms Irish CreamUS$11.00
Meletti ChocolateUS$10.00
Meletti LimoncelloUS$10.00
Pineau des CharentesUS$14.00
SambucaUS$12.00

Backyard Beans Coffee

DripUS$6.00
EspressoUS$7.00
CappuccinoUS$7.00
LatteUS$7.00

Organic Hot Tea

English Breakfast
Decaf Earl Grey
Green
African Nectar
Mint
Chamomile

What 1,013 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.6

4.6 based on recent ratings

4.6Food
4.6Service
4.6Ambience
4.4Value

Noise • Moderate

Loved For

Western Suburbs
Contemporary American

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews

The Refectory offers a delightful dining experience with its "fantastic ambience" and an expansive menu where "everything sounds good." Known for its "amazing" service and cozy setting, it's perfect for any occasion. Their gluten-free options and seasonal dishes are a hit. "Highly recommend" for a visit!

1,181 Reviews

SR
StephanieR
Philadelphia
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined 1 day ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Nice vibe and good food.
Is this helpful?
J
John
VIP
Philadelphia
21 reviews
4.0
21 reviews
Dined 1 day ago
1. Overall 4
2. Food 4
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 3
The only downside was that the two hostesses were somewhat unfriendly. However, the food was excellent, the service was attentive, and the venue had a lovely ambiance.
Is this helpful?
A
Ann
Chicago
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined 3 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Our server Gianna was awesome and patient with our group that didn't arrive on time. Amazing selling on chicken parm and incredible kind.
Is this helpful?
J
Jessica
VIP
Philadelphia
1 review
2.0
1 review
Dined on February 4, 2025
1. Overall 2
2. Food 2
3. Service 3
4. Ambience 3
I’m really disappointed with our recent experience. My best friend and I used to love coming here, but the constant menu changes have been frustrating, and the current options just don’t measure up. It’s hard to understand why some of the best items were removed and replaced with mediocre ones. Unfortunately, I think today was our last visit to the Refectory.
The RefectoryResponded on February 5, 2025
Thanks for visiting us, Jessica. We're truly sorry to hear about your recent experience at The Refectory. We understand that it can be frustrating to constantly change our menu and we're sorry that these changes were not to your liking, we do change the menu seasonally. We're committed to providing the best experience for our guests and we're sorry that we fell short this time. We appreciate your past patronage and hope that you'll give us another chance to impress you in the future. Best, The Management Team
Is this helpful?
A
Alberto
Las Vegas
4 reviews
5.0
4 reviews
Dined on February 2, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 4
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Great local eatery, good vibes. Good food selection. Would recommend!
The RefectoryResponded on February 4, 2025
We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your experience at The Refectory. It's wonderful to know that our food and atmosphere added to your positive experience. Your recommendation means a lot to us. We look forward to welcoming you back soon.
Is this helpful?
T
Ted
VIP
Philadelphia
19 reviews
5.0
19 reviews
Dined on January 30, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Always a great experience and meal at the Refectory.
The RefectoryResponded on February 1, 2025
Thanks for visiting us, Ted! We're thrilled to hear that you always have a great experience at The Refectory. It's wonderful to know that you enjoyed our meals and found our service to be top-notch. We strive to provide excellent value, and your feedback helps us do just that. We look forward to serving you again soon!
Is this helpful?
B
Brian
VIP
New York City
15 reviews
5.0
15 reviews
Dined on January 29, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 4
Great place to take your Villanova son or daughter to dinner. Easy, good food, great service.
The RefectoryResponded on January 30, 2025
We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your dinner at The Refectory! It's always a pleasure to provide our students with a memorable dining experience. We're glad to know that our food and service met your expectations. Thank you for choosing us for your dining experience. We look forward to welcoming you and your family back soon! Best regards, The Management Team
Is this helpful?
K
Kenneth
Philadelphia
25 reviews
5.0
25 reviews
Dined on January 29, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
First time here for lunch. Easy to park. Easy access location on campus. Great service. Mahi tacos and mushroom risotto prepared perfectly. Comfortable seating. A plus grade!
The RefectoryResponded on January 30, 2025
We're thrilled to hear that you had a great experience at The Refectory and enjoyed our food. It's always a pleasure to provide great service and comfortable seating, and we're glad we could make your campus visit a positive one. Looking forward to your next visit!
Is this helpful?
p
patty
VIP
Philadelphia
13 reviews
5.0
13 reviews
Dined on January 27, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
A great local bar, restaurant with friendly staff and good food!
The RefectoryResponded on January 30, 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words and perfect ratings! We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed our food and found our staff to be friendly. Your satisfaction is our top priority and it's always wonderful to hear from happy customers. We look forward to welcoming you back to The Refectory soon! Best, The Management Team
Is this helpful?
A
Alison
Philadelphia
6 reviews
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on January 25, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
We had a great meal. The filet melted in your mouth. The cocktails were well made, delicious desserts. Highly recommend
The RefectoryResponded on January 30, 2025
Thanks for the review, Alison! We're thrilled to hear that you had a great meal at The Refectory. It's wonderful to know that our filet and cocktails hit the mark for you. We're also glad you enjoyed our desserts. Your high recommendation means a lot to us. We look forward to welcoming you back soon!
Is this helpful?

FAQs

The Refectory is rated 4.6 stars by 1013 OpenTable diners.

The Refectory does offer gift cards which you can purchase here.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people

Feb 16, 2025

7:00 p.m.

Booked 57 times today

862 Lancaster Avenue, Villanova, PA 19085

Dining areas

Additional information

Cross Street
Ithan Ave
Neighbourhood
Villanova
Hours of Operation
Brunch Sat, Sun 10:30 am–3:00 pm Lunch Mon–Fri 11:30 am–3:00 pm Dinner Mon–Thu, Sun 3:00 pm–10:00 pm Fri, Sat 3:00 pm–11:00 pm Happy Hour Daily 4:00 pm–6:00 pm
Price
$31 to $50
Cuisines
Contemporary American, Cocktail Bar, Oyster Bar
Dining style
Casual Elegant
Dress code
Casual Dress
Parking details
Public Lot
Public transit
PARKING GARAGE INFORMATION: Parking is only available across the street from The Refectory at the Villanova I-1 Parking Garage located on South Ithan Avenue. There are no timing restrictions for vehicles parked at the I-1 Parking Garage for guests dining at The Refectory. The rates are as follows: the 1st hour is free, two hours is $2, and up to four hours is $5. Currently, we do not validate parking. Upon entry, pull a ticket and park on any of the first 3 floors. A pay machine accepting cash and credit is located by the Main Pedestrian Entrance/Exit on Floor 2. The exit lanes only accept credit cards and do not accept cash. To get to the Refectory from the Parking Garage from Floor 2, use the pedestrian walkway across Ithan Avenue. The Refectory is located in The Commons, the stone mixed-use residential and commercial building on the corner of Ithan & Lancaster Avenue. Look for restaurant signage and call us at 610-519-5786 if you have any issues
Payment Options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Executive Chef
Biff Gottehrer, Michael Murray
Additional
Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Non-Smoking, Private Room, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Website
http://www.refectorynova.com/
Phone number
(610) 519-5786
Private party facilities
We offer several private and semi-private dining and event options. The private President's Dining Room accommodates up to 14 guests for a seated function, while semi-private areas of our dining room can be set up for guests ranging from 25-80. Inquire for restaurant buyouts. Contact our Event Director, Devin Simpson at devin@refectorynova.com

Gift card

Send gift cards instantly by email or print to present in person.

Send a gift card

The Refectory

Make a reservation

Dining areas

Additional information

Gift card

Branzino Filet

Salmon BLT&A

Smoked Salmon

Dessert

Ricotta DoughnutsUS$11.00

Peanut Butter CakeUS$11.00

Cosmic Deep Dish BrownieUS$11.00

Bread PuddingUS$11.00

Autumn TartUS$17.00

Black Forest Chocolate TartUS$11.00

TiramisuUS$11.00

Amaro

AvernaUS$15.00

BraulioUS$15.00

CardamaroUS$13.00

Contratto FernetUS$11.00

CynarUS$10.00

Fernet BrancaUS$12.00

Lazzaroni AmaroUS$12.00

Meletti AmaroUS$11.00

MontenegroUS$14.00

NoninoUS$21.00

Santa MariaUS$11.00

SfumatoUS$10.00

UnderbergUS$7.00

Port

Quinta RubyUS$9.00

Quinta TawnyUS$9.00

Quinta WhiteUS$9.00

Sherry

El Maestro Sierra PXUS$19.00

El Maestro FinoUS$17.00

Aurora AmontilladoUS$13.00

Aurora ManzanillaUS$15.00

Aurora OlorosoUS$15.00

Brandy

Ansac CognacUS$10.00

Chte. de Pellehaut ArmangacUS$15.00

Gilles Brisson Cognac VSUS$13.00

Gilles Brisson Cognac VSOPUS$20.00

Gilles Brisson Cognac XOUS$47.00

Laird's Bonded Apple BrandyUS$12.00

Resurgent Apple BrandyUS$18.00

Sibona Madeira GrappaUS$10.00

Other Tasty Treats

DisaronnoUS$10.00

FrangelicoUS$12.00

Five Farms Irish CreamUS$11.00

Meletti ChocolateUS$10.00

Meletti LimoncelloUS$10.00

Pineau des CharentesUS$14.00

SambucaUS$12.00

Backyard Beans Coffee

DripUS$6.00

EspressoUS$7.00

CappuccinoUS$7.00

LatteUS$7.00

Organic Hot Tea

English Breakfast

Decaf Earl Grey

Green

African Nectar

Mint

Chamomile

Overall ratings and reviews

Loved For

Review summary

FAQs

How is The Refectory restaurant rated?

Does The Refectory offer gift cards?

Is The Refectory currently accepting reservations?

Make a reservation

Dining areas

Additional information

Gift card