Welcome to another edition of the recommendation list featuring American university canteens. This compilation is based on authentic feedback from US News and international students. Remarkably, the majority of the restaurants on this list boast an impressive A+ rating on Niche. Now, without further ado, let’s delve into colleges with the best food!
What are the top 10 colleges with the best food?
10. University of California San Diego(UCSD)
2024 Best National Universities: #28
Niche Campus Food: B
Keywords: ultra-authentic Chinese food, stunning sea views, and an array of special dishes.
UCSD‘s dining options are a delightful surprise. Unlike many other universities, UCSD goes beyond the usual lettuce salads and hamburgers. Their diverse menu features specialties from various countries and regions, including the intriguing rice with trotters—a special Cantonese recipe!
At Fan Fan, you can savor delightful dishes, including tomato scrambled eggs, pig‘s ears, and seaweed. Therefore, some even compare it to Panda Express—a testament to its unique flavors and variety. If you’re a fan of Chinese cuisine, consider yourself blessed!
9. University of Georgia
2024 Best National Universities: #47
Niche Campus Food: A+
Keywords: multiple choices, convenience, rich chain brands.
UGA‘s dining services are diverse and abundant. Among them, five main restaurants and four food courts stand out. Moreover, The university is committed to providing students with a variety of dining options, making it easier for them to find wholesome meals.
At UGA, health-conscious dining is a priority. All dishes served in the restaurants are meticulously crafted to promote well-being. In addition, you can start your day with UGA’s special smoothie—a delightful blend of flavors that kickstarts your morning on a nutritious note.
Besides, students with special needs for ingredients can directly ask the restaurant staff to design their own special diet.
8. Bates College
2024 Best National Liberal Arts Colleges: #24
Niche Campus Food: A+
Keywords: multiple choices, common vegetables, Napkin Board.
Bates College has only one main restaurant, but within this cozy space, you’ll find six distinct stations, each contributing to the diverse array of dishes available.
Bates College surprises students with its unwavering dedication to customization. The cereal menu at Bates is a cornucopia of options with over 45 varieties to choose from. Whether you crave the classics or seek exotic blends, Bates has you covered.
Other than that, Bates also provides 20 delightful ice cream flavors, each accompanied by over 20 types of tempting toppings.
7. James Madison University
2024 Best National Universities: #124
Niche Campus Food: A+
Keywords: homely flavors, environmental responsibility, and nutritious, slimming meals.
James Madison University boasts two canteens: D Hall and E Hall. D Hall specializes in Asian cuisine, including comforting “taste of home” dishes like soups. These meals are thoughtfully designed to be low in calories, averaging less than 100 calories per serving—ideal for students who are mindful of their diet. Additionally, students have the creative freedom to craft their own pizzas and sandwiches.
E Hall offers a wider variety of options and even operates an Allergen Solutions Station to accommodate students with food allergies. Additionally, E Hall features an American fast food section at its Burger Grill, a choice not available in D Hall.
6. Virginia Tech
2024 Best National Universities: #47
Niche Campus Food: A+
Keywords: abundant dining options and ingredients provided by the university.
Virginia Tech (VT) has the most extensive dining options among U.S. colleges with a total of 49 restaurants, spreading across 8 different buildings. From buffets to steakhouses, and even a Pizza Hut, the variety is impressive and caters to diverse tastes.
Among the dining options, the unique buffet in the university, all-you-care-to-eat, is situated in Dietrick Hall. Remarkably, Dietrick Hall holds the distinction of being the longest-established and largest demilitarized restaurant in the United States.
5. Washington University in St. Louis
2024 Best National Universities: #24
Niche Campus Food: A+
Keywords: classic Chinese food, open until dawn, various kinds.
At WashU, some of the dishes truly embody a Western-style culinary experience. For instance, the grilled steak—it arrives with a medley of cooked vegetables and is elegantly presented on the plate. The delicate flavors and meticulous preparation elevate it beyond what one would typically expect from a school restaurant.
There are three major restaurants on campus, of which Bears Den’s Sizzle & Stir Station is the most popular among Chinese students.
4. Bowdoin College
2024 Best National Liberal Arts Colleges: #9
Niche Campus Food: A+
Keywords: having lobsters twice a year, healthy food, organic garden.
Bowdoin College hosts the Lobster Bake twice a year! Firstly, on the day before graduation, graduates and their family members gather to savor grilled lobsters and fresh corn. The second occasion is during Welcoming Week in autumn when the campus community comes together to enjoy this delightful tradition.
Bowdoin’s Organic Garden, established in 2005, serves as an integral part of the college’s sustainable goal. Beyond merely supplying fresh ingredients like vegetables and fruits to the dining halls, the garden fosters a sense of community through shared work and educational workshops.
3. Cornell University
2024 Best National Universities: #12
Niche Campus Food: A+
Keywords: nearly zero bad reviews, authentic Chinese food, multiple restaurants.
Cornell University boasts a total of 10 canteens, strategically located across the northern, central, and western areas. Among these, the renowned North Star stands out. Inside the Asian Station, students can relish many types of authentic Asian dishes, including dumplings, fried noodles, and egg fried rice.
Additionally, Cornell’s Nolan School of Hotel Administration features two distinct restaurants: “Establishment at Statler” and “Taverna Banfi”. The former one is entirely managed by students enrolled in relevant courses, while the latter specializes in authentic Italian cuisine.
2. University of California, Los Angeles
2024 Best National Universities: #15
Niche Campus Food: A+
Keywords: global food collection, UCLA students only, rich variety of dishes.
The biggest tag of UCLA‘s restaurants is to “Taste delicious food from all over the world”. Whether it’s Asian cuisine like Chinese, Korean, and Indian dishes, or Mexican and Mediterranean flavors, UCLA enthusiastically introduces students to global culinary delights.
At De Neve, the dining experience is a delightful journey. Amidst the vibrant culinary offerings, you’ll encounter mouthwatering delights like Chicago-style pizza, Texas barbecue, poutine, and spaghetti.
In addition, the restaurant will be open until midnight, and there will be various snacks waiting for the students.
1. University of Massachusetts Amherst
2024 Best National Universities: #67
Niche Campus Food: A+
Keywords: authentic Chinese food, various kinds of buffet, Meal Plan price increase, large size.
Unlike other public universities with low-quality restaurants, UMass has been honored as the Best Campus Food in Princeton Review for four consecutive years.
It not only provides a diverse range of food but also generous sizes. The succulent chunks of beef paired with rice noodles are sure to whet anyone’s appetite. Among international students, the ice cream is a beloved treat—described as smooth, sweet, and not overly greasy, it’s a must-have after meals.
However, restaurant prices have increased in recent years. Even the most budget-friendly Meal Plan available to freshmen comes in at nearly $6,600 per year.
That concludes our discussion on colleges with the best food in the U.S. If you have any other inquiries about the United States, feel free to follow us on our website uhomes.
FAQ on colleges with the best food in the U.S.
What is the #1 rated college in the US?
As of the last update in 2023, the #1 rated college in the United States according to various rankings, including those by U.S. News & World Report, is often Princeton University. However, rankings can vary depending on the criteria used.
Why is UCLA food so good?
UCLA’s food quality is renowned for several key reasons. The university has made a significant commitment to providing diverse, nutritious, and high-quality food options across its dining halls and eateries. UCLA Dining Services sources fresh, local, and sustainable ingredients.
What colleges have the healthiest food?
Colleges like the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and the University of California, Berkeley, are lauded for their healthy dining options, focusing on fresh, locally-sourced, and sustainable ingredients. Institutions such as Bowdoin College also stand out for their commitment to offering nutritious meals that cater to various dietary preferences, including vegan and gluten-free choices.
