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Original photo by Cate Dembinski
Northeastern | Lifestyle

As Spring Returns, Spoon NEU’s Annual Scavenger Hunt Kicks Off

Cate Dembinski Student Contributor, Northeastern University
This article is written by a student writer from the Spoon University at Northeastern chapter and does not reflect the views of Spoon University.

The first day of spring can only mean one thing: the annual Spoon University Scavenger Hunt hosted by the Northeastern chapter is right around the corner. Taking place in the Newbury St. area, participants unlock free or discounted food/drink items from local businesses by solving fun riddles! On 03/21/26, 35 participants set out to put their food knowledge to the test and explore the Boston area. They took pictures with each item to redeem their prize and got to feast on their items! But what were they able to redeem? Check out our Instagram Reel for more details! A special thank you and shoutout to all of our AMAZING sponsors below in no particular order:

1. Levain Bakery

Levain Bakery is an iconic NYC destination, located right on Newbury St. for anyone craving a sweet treat. Participants enjoyed cold brew or lemonade iced teas with their famous cookies!

2. Shake Shack

Does Shake Shack have the best fast food burger? In our opinion, yes! Everyone got a voucher for this stop to enjoy Shake Shack’s extensive menu in the future. 

3. Ben & Jerry’s

Ben & Jerry\'s Ice Cream
Original photo by Cate Dembinski

Originating from Vermont, Ben & Jerry’s remains a classic option for those seeking out a cooling treat! All participants got to pick out a flavor of ice cream and received a voucher for the future. 

4. Little Miss Cupcape

Little Miss Cupcape Cupcake
Original photo by Cate Dembinski

A hidden gem on Newbury St., Little Miss Cupcape serves delicious mini cupcakes amongst other treats.  Everyone got to pick between two classic options to enjoy, vanilla or chocolate birthday cake! 

5. Dirty Water Dough

Dirty Water Dough Pizz
Original photo by Cate Dembinski

It’s debatable if Boston has good pizza. But we know one thing for sure, Dirty Water Dough offers the best slice in Boston! Participants got to rest and sit down to enjoy great pizza. 

6. Blackbird Donuts

Blackbird Mini Donuts
Original photo by Cate Dembinski

Anyone looking for great artisan donuts should turn their attention to Blackbird Donuts! Everyone got to try their mini donuts in a variety of flavors. 

7. Ten One Teahouse

ten one teahouse boba
Original photo by Cate Dembinski

Craving quality tea drinks? Ten One Teahouse is the perfect spot for you! Participants got to try a variety of drinks on their large menu. The brown sugar milk tea was a popular option! 

8. Flour Bakery + Cafe

Flour Bakery Coffee
Original photo by Cate Dembinski

Did you know there’s a bakery right in the Boston Common? Flour Bakery + Cafe has a beautiful location with a great view of the park there! A cup of perfectly brewed coffee caffeinated participants to start the Scavenger Hunt.

We hope everyone had an incredible time and we hope to see everyone next year at our next Scavenger Hunt for even more fun!

Cate Dembinski

Northeastern '27

Hi! I'm Cate and I'm from NYC, where I developed a love for all things food. I'm currently a third-year International Business major with a concentration in Marketing and a minor in Global Fashion Studies at Northeastern University. I love checking out new cafes and restaurants around the world, and I especially love creating content about them.

Instagram: @eatswithcate
Beli: @catee