With college decision deadlines approaching for incoming freshmen, I can’t help but think about the major factors that influence my choice of college — location, weather, academics, BIG 10, and so on. But what about food? Dining halls are a major part of college life, and therefore can be a source of decision-anxiety. If you’re still undecided, or even if you’re just curious, check out these top-ranking college dining halls:
1. Boston University
Boston University’s modern eating spot flaunts a double-decker style layout, giving it the #1 spot on the list of best dining halls. The Fresh Food Company in the Commons is best option, according to students, with gourmet desserts, grills, and vegan/gluten free options galore.
Mouthwatering menu item: Chili Bean Tostada Braised Chicken
2. University of Michigan
The University of Michigan’s South Quad dining hall is notorious as the best dining hall on campus for its smorgasbord of options. With several micro-restaurants and aesthetically-designed eating areas, students are sure to satisfy their cravings or simply their need for down-time.
Mouthwatering menu item: Maize and Blue cookies
3. Bucknell University
Bucknell’s dining hall is all-around buffet style — sure to suit even the pickiest of eaters. One dining area, Bostwick Marketplace, caters solely to comfort foods (see: mac and cheese bites above), while another is dedicated to soup and salads. Best of both worlds.
Mouthwatering menu item: Salmon Quinoa Burger
4. Cornell University
This dining hall has varied menus based on the weekday. Asian, Mexican and Italian all rotate as daily specials. Speciality options at Trillium even include a rockin’ Sunday brunch to end the weekend on a high note. With menu items such as chicken wings and tuna poke bowls, this Ivy League dining hall is anything but ordinary.
Mouthwatering menu item: Dim Sum
5. Louisiana State University
LSU’s dining hall, The 5, may seem ordinary at first glance.You’ve got your salad bar, coffee bar, and sandwiches — the typical college fare. But low and behold, The 5 has a store open late night that caters to students’ Papa Johns pizza and Krispy Kreme donut cravings. How’s that for late night eats?
Mouthwatering menu item: Cinnamon french toast
6. Miami University (Ohio)
The perfect dining hall for students with allergies, Miami of Ohio’s Western Commons dining hall has a robust “Allergen Station” completely free of gluten, soy, peanuts, and dairy.
Mouthwatering menu item: BBQ beef pizza
7. UCLA
UCLA is located near some of the best spots in Los Angeles. From Sprinkles cupcakes to Diddy Riese, Westwood is truly a college kid’s food heaven. However, no need to stray further than the nearest dining spot, like Bruin Café, to get some delicious desserts any time of day. From frosted donuts to red velvet cupcakes, UCLA dining has you covered.
Mouthwatering menu item: Avocado grilled chicken sandwich
If you’re currently a college student, you know that the level of your dining hall is crucial to surviving university stresses: midterms, finals, term papers, winter weather, hangover, and the list goes on. If you are applying to college, however, be sure to consider dining hall and snack options in your list of requirements.
#SpoonTip: Go Blue