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The Refectory, Villanova, PA

The Refectory

4.6
4.6
1021 Reviews
$31 to $50
Contemporary American

Make a reservation

2 people
11:00 p.m.
Booked 33 times today
  • Good for special occasions
  • Lively
  • Neighbourhood gem
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
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Menu

Wood-Grilled Flatbreads

  • CheeseUS$12.00

    cheddar, grana padana, marinara

    • Spicy PepperoniUS$14.00

      cheddar, grana padano, marinara, oregano, hot honey

      • BrisketUS$15.00

        apple butter, smoked cheddar, goat cheese, horseradish, pomegranate

        • Wild MushroomUS$15.00

          cheddar, parmesan, sweet onion purée, truffle, egg yolk

          Pasta

          • Spicy Vodka RigatoniUS$21.00

            calabrian chili, vodka

            • Short Rib StroganoffUS$21.00

              wild rice, millet, creme fraiche, mixed mushrooms, parmesan, beef jus

              Handhelds

              served with fries or a side salad

              • Dry-Aged Cravers*US$20.00

                (3 2oz. burger patties) american, onion, special sauce, house slider buns

                • Salmon BLT&AUS$19.00

                  alfalfa sprouts, smoked tomato, dijonnaise, focaccia

                  • Grilled Chicken SandwichUS$17.00

                    ciabatta, honey mustard, kunik, smoked tomato, arugula

                    • House Turkey SandwichUS$18.00

                      cranberry walnut sourdough, LTO, cheddar, dukes mayo, bacon

                      • Fried Chicken SandwichUS$16.00

                        sesame seed bun, pickles, romaine, pickled cabbage, comeback sauce

                        • Beets on WeckUS$15.00

                          caraway bun, horseradish aioli, beet jus

                          Soups & Salads

                          add chicken $5, add shrimp $8, add salmon $10, add filet mignon $10

                          • Mushroom SoupUS$15.00

                            shallot, yukon gold potato, oat milk

                            • Fried Chicken Cobb SaladUS$18.00

                              fried chicken, iceberg lettuce, cherry tomatoes, hard boiled egg, avocado, bacon, bleu cheese, ranch dressing

                              • Caesar SaladUS$15.00

                                baby gem, croutons, dill, cured yolk

                                • Green Salad***US$15.00

                                  avocado, radish, cucumber, green goddess

                                  • Winter SaladUS$15.00

                                    spring mix, craisin, bleu cheese, beets, pear, balsamic, spicy walnuts

                                    • Citrus SaladUS$17.00

                                      endive, blood orange, grapefruit, pomegranate vinaigrette, granola

                                      Shareables

                                      • Brussels Sprouts***US$15.00

                                        bacon lardon, apple, balsamic mustard

                                        • Mahi Tacos**US$16.00

                                          plantain crust, avocado, cabbage, chipotle mayo

                                          • Rock Shrimp TacosUS$18.00

                                            sweet chili sauce, avocado, cilantro

                                            • Buffalo Cauliflower***US$16.00

                                              house hot sauce, buttermilk ranch

                                              • Oysters*US$18.00

                                                1/2 dozen, mignonette

                                                • Shrimp CocktailUS$16.00

                                                  cocktail sauce, fresh lemon

                                                  • FriesUS$6.00

                                                    tomato & vinegar emulsion

                                                    • Nova FriesUS$11.00

                                                      brisket, house wiz, pickled red onion

                                                      Last updated: February 21, 2025

                                                      What 1,021 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
                                                      • 4.5Service
                                                      • 4.7Ambience
                                                      • 4.3Value

                                                      Noise • Moderate

                                                      Loved For

                                                      • Western Suburbs

                                                        Contemporary American

                                                      Review summary

                                                      AI-generated from verified diner reviews
                                                      The Refectory, located on Villanova's campus, offers a vibrant dining experience with "delicious food" and "impeccable service." Guests enjoy a cozy yet lively atmosphere with "friendly staff" and "great menu options." Though some mention noise levels, overall, it's praised as a "hidden gem" ideal for various occasions.

                                                      1,189 Reviews

                                                      1. Kristin

                                                        VIP

                                                        Philadelphia

                                                        82 reviews

                                                        3.0

                                                        82 reviews

                                                        Dined 3 days ago

                                                        1. Overall 3
                                                        2. Food 3
                                                        3. Service 3
                                                        4. Ambience 3
                                                        First time, nice bar, liked the menu. Spicy tuna taartare wasn’t great but okay. I’d return for apps and a big salad. Happy to see it’s busy. Good addition to the neighborhood.

                                                        Is this helpful?

                                                      2. DEBORAH

                                                        Philadelphia

                                                        2 reviews

                                                        4.0

                                                        2 reviews

                                                        Dined 3 days ago

                                                        1. Overall 4
                                                        2. Food 4
                                                        3. Service 4
                                                        4. Ambience 3
                                                        The Refectory is a beautiful dining spot. The food and service were very good. I would definitely return. The only less than ideal factor was the noise. It's rather boisterous.

                                                        Is this helpful?

                                                      3. Elizabeth

                                                        Philadelphia

                                                        17 reviews

                                                        4.0

                                                        17 reviews

                                                        Dined 5 days ago

                                                        1. Overall 4
                                                        2. Food 4
                                                        3. Service 4
                                                        4. Ambience 5
                                                        Very cozy and welcoming atmosphere. It’s pretty noisy because of wood floors. Menu had some interesting choices. Service was good. I would recommend it for a nice change of pace.
                                                        The RefectoryResponded 3 days ago
                                                        Hello Elizabeth, Thank you for taking the time to review The Refectory! We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed our cozy atmosphere and found our menu interesting. We're also glad that our service met your expectations. Your recommendation means a lot to us. We hope to see you again soon for another nice change of pace! Best, The Management Team

                                                        Is this helpful?

                                                      4. Eileen

                                                        Philadelphia

                                                        3 reviews

                                                        5.0

                                                        3 reviews

                                                        Dined on February 16, 2025

                                                        1. Overall 5
                                                        2. Food 5
                                                        3. Service 5
                                                        4. Ambience 5
                                                        Great service, food was yummy but a bit pricey. Easy to make a reservation & seated promptly
                                                        The RefectoryResponded 7 days ago
                                                        Thanks for the feedback, Eileen! We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed our food and service at The Refectory. We understand your concern about the pricing and are always looking for ways to improve our guests' experiences. We hope to see you again soon, maybe for another yummy meal!

                                                        Is this helpful?

                                                      5. Seth

                                                        Philadelphia

                                                        5 reviews

                                                        5.0

                                                        5 reviews

                                                        Dined on February 16, 2025

                                                        1. Overall 5
                                                        2. Food 5
                                                        3. Service 5
                                                        4. Ambience 5
                                                        Great spot right on Villanova’s campus. Food is always good, service is always impeccable. Free / validated parking is a bonus.
                                                        The RefectoryResponded 3 days ago
                                                        Thanks for visiting us, Seth! We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed our food and service. We strive to provide the best for our guests and your feedback is a testament to that. We look forward to serving you again soon!

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                                                      6. Bob

                                                        Philadelphia

                                                        1 review

                                                        5.0

                                                        1 review

                                                        Dined on February 16, 2025

                                                        1. Overall 5
                                                        2. Food 5
                                                        3. Service 5
                                                        4. Ambience 5
                                                        Had only been to their for drinks before a game. Pleasantly surprised how good the food was.
                                                        The RefectoryResponded 7 days ago
                                                        Thanks for visiting us, Bob! We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your dining experience at The Refectory. It's fantastic to know that our food was a pleasant surprise for you. We always strive to provide top-notch service and it's great to know we hit the mark during your visit. We hope to welcome you back soon for another enjoyable experience. Best wishes, The Management Team

                                                        Is this helpful?

                                                      7. Willa

                                                        VIP

                                                        Richmond

                                                        22 reviews

                                                        5.0

                                                        22 reviews

                                                        Dined on February 16, 2025

                                                        1. Overall 5
                                                        2. Food 5
                                                        3. Service 5
                                                        4. Ambience 5
                                                        Delicious brunch with friendly, prompt service. We had a group of 13 accommodated in a private room which was a lovely way to visit.
                                                        The RefectoryResponded 7 days ago
                                                        Thanks for visiting us, Willa! We're thrilled to hear that you and your group had a lovely time at The Refectory. It's great to know that our brunch was to your liking and that our private room was a comfortable choice for your group. We always strive to make every visit a memorable one for our guests. We appreciate your kind words and look forward to welcoming you back soon! Best regards, The Management Team

                                                        Is this helpful?

                                                      8. StephanieR

                                                        Philadelphia

                                                        3 reviews

                                                        5.0

                                                        3 reviews

                                                        Dined on February 15, 2025

                                                        1. Overall 5
                                                        2. Food 5
                                                        3. Service 5
                                                        4. Ambience 5
                                                        Nice vibe and good food.
                                                        The RefectoryResponded 7 days ago
                                                        Hello StephanieR, Thank you for your kind words and for taking the time to leave us a review. We appreciate your feedback on the value and will strive to continually improve. We hope to welcome you back soon. Best regards, The Management Team

                                                        Is this helpful?

                                                      9. John

                                                        VIP

                                                        Philadelphia

                                                        22 reviews

                                                        4.0

                                                        22 reviews

                                                        Dined on February 15, 2025

                                                        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.
                                                        The RefectoryResponded 7 days ago
                                                        Hello John, Thank you for your feedback. We're glad to hear that you enjoyed our food and found the ambiance of The Refectory to be lovely. We're sorry if you felt the service was not as friendly. We strive to provide a welcoming and attentive environment for all our guests. Your comments are valuable to us and will be taken into consideration as we continue to improve. We hope to see you again soon for another excellent dining experience. Best regards, The Management Team

                                                        1 person found this helpful

                                                      10. Angelica

                                                        VIP

                                                        Philadelphia

                                                        5 reviews

                                                        5.0

                                                        5 reviews

                                                        Dined on February 14, 2025

                                                        1. Overall 5
                                                        2. Food 5
                                                        3. Service 5
                                                        4. Ambience 5
                                                        Awesome dinner! Food was delicious and service and ambiance was even better. A hidden gem on Villanova’s campus! \\// alum love!
                                                        The RefectoryResponded 3 days ago
                                                        Hello Angelica, Thank you so much for your glowing review! We're thrilled to hear that you had an awesome dinner at The Refectory. It's wonderful to know that you enjoyed our delicious food and found our service and ambiance to your liking. We appreciate your kind words and your support as an alum. We're so glad that we're a hidden gem on your campus! We can't wait to welcome you back soon. Best regards, The Management Team

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                                                      FAQs

                                                      The Refectory is rated 4.6 stars by 1021 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
                                                      11:00 p.m.
                                                      Booked 33 times today
                                                      Google Map for The Refectory

                                                      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

                                                      Gift card

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

                                                      Send a gift card
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