University Cafe — Restaurant in Hampton

I entered the University Café expecting chaos, but the restaurant was pristine. A group of prawns scurried out of the gleaming kitchen, cackling among themselves. A handsome rat in a bow tie placed a starched napkin on my lap. I was seated next to two older gentlemen who sustained a witty repartee, critiquing every dish that they were served. “It’s not half bad,” one said. “Nope, it’s all bad!” replied the other. They laughed. Apparently, they are here every night.

I heard the chef before I saw him. Loud bangs, crashes, and moos peppered the haughty murmurings of the upscale dining room—no doubt contributing to the proprietor’s mystique. A swordfish sailed past my head and smacked clumsily against the wall. “Herdy come da fishy wishy!” Our chef had arrived.

Each night, the University Café offers a fixed menu featuring a wide range of items. On the evening that I visited, dishes included Chicky Catchy Turdi, Bork Chops, and a specialty item that is listed on the menu solely as a photograph of the chef, trapped inside a lobster pot. There are no prices, only pictures of the many feats of Hampton University’s sophistication, feats that dismantled the performance of traditional fine dining. Truly delighting....

Today, February 26, 2013 after 2:00 pm. This is the first time eating at University Cafe....... I ordered the curry chicken, rice, cabbage w/ carrots, and sweet potatoes. The only thing I was able to eat was the chicken-tender fell off the bone.

The cabbage was mushy and cold. The rice was undercooked (crunchy). The sweet potatoes were candied yams out of the can- added seasoning and was scorched- it made me gag, I couldn't stand the smell. Through away the entire plate. Cost me over $7.00. I will not eat...

Quiet serene and if you love nature and the sound of water with lots of things to do n in the middle this is definitely a place to venture off and see what you can get into by yourself or with a mate or make it a...