Throughout my days at Duke, oatmeal has become a staple in my diet. It’s quick, nutritious and adjustable to any flavor palate. Although it may be cheaper to make on your own, it’s much easier to buy it with food points on campus. Ain’t nobody got time to cook breakfast before an 8:15 am Italian class. My favorite oatmeal on campus used to be at the law school, but when ownership changed, so did the menu. I set out to taste every oatmeal on campus to solve, once and for all, the best oatmeal students on campus can buy.
5. Saladelia
Photo by Izzi Clark
This oatmeal is a convenient buy when you’re cramming before class. It comes with walnuts, raisins and brown sugar. However, I always end up pouring some out into the trash can because the oats get drowned in hot water. Stick with their pumpkin bread.
4. Joe Van Gogh
Photo by Izzi Clark
This oatmeal is perfect for the on-the-go coffee addict. No matter how long the line is for JVG, you’re willing to stand in it. If you’re a fan of sweeter oatmeals (full disclosure: they’re not my fav), then you’ll like this one.
3. Marketplace
Photo by Izzi Clark
As a freshman, you probably got pretty sick of this place pretty quickly. The oatmeal is honestly pretty bomb, though, especially because you can top it with anything in marketplace – peanut butter, apples, cocoa puffs, you name it.
2. Au Bon Pain
Photo by Izzi Clark
If you like toppings, this oatmeal is the one for you. Choose from an array of almonds, brown sugar, chocolate chips, dried cranberries, granola and raisins at ABP. A medium will cost you $2.99, so definitely get your money’s worth in chocolate chips.
#SpoonTip: Make sure to get there early because they typically take away the toppings around 10 am.
1. Divinity Refectory
Photo by Izzi Clark
I like to call this one “the oatmeal for people who don’t like oatmeal.” With it’s baked texture and wholesome flavor, it’s as close to law school oatmeal as you can get. At $2.95 for a cup or $3.95 for a bowl, it’s definitely worth the food points. Bring your own strawberries, though, because $3.75 per serving is a bit too steep.
#SpoonTip: If you like a creamier consistency, add milk to the oatmeal, along with cinnamon sugar or honey.